Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE High Commissioner on National Minorities (HCNM) is an institution within the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) that was established to promote conflict prevention and the integration of diverse societies. The HCNM was founded to identify and seek early resolution of ethnic tensions that might endanger peace, stability, or friendly relations between OSCE participating States. The organization operates with a comprehensive approach to security that encompasses various aspects including politico-military, economic, environmental, and human dimensions. The OSCE has 57 participating States, all of which enjoy equal status, and decisions are made by consensus on a politically but not legally binding basis. The HCNM office is staffed by a High Commissioner, a Director, and various teams comprising political, legal, project advisers/officers, and administrative support staff, focusing primarily on Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer is responsible for overseeing all phases of development and implementation of the programmatic portfolio assigned to them. This includes preparing project proposals, identifying and guiding implementing partners, monitoring project progress, and conducting visits to relevant regions for project management purposes. The Project Officer plays a crucial role in ensuring that the programmatic portfolio aligns with and advances the High Commissioner’s political and legislative assistance to the OSCE participating States. Additionally, the Project Officer is tasked with fundraising, financial management of projects, and their monitoring and evaluation. This position requires a proactive approach to project management and a strong understanding of the political context in the relevant regions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of the Head of Section, the Project Officer will participate in and contribute to in-country assessments, development of project proposals and budgets, identification of local and international project partners, and potential funders. They will oversee project implementation, evaluation, and reporting, ensuring compliance with project budgets and OSCE requirements. The Project Officer will maintain continuous contact with implementing partners and may represent the High Commissioner at conferences, seminars, and training programs. They will also contribute to the development of fundraising strategies and materials, support the Head of Section and HCNM's Advisers in drafting documents, and play a key role in developing knowledge products and supporting initiatives for knowledge exchange between OSCE participating States. The Project Officer will supervise project assistants and national project staff as necessary and perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in Political Science, International Relations, Development Studies, Public Administration, Project Management, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">International Law, Sociology, or related fields. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience will be accepted in lieu of the second-level degree. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience, including project management experience at the international level, is required. Candidates should have a sound understanding of the political context in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, particularly regarding inter-ethnic relations and minority issues. Creativity and initiative are essential attributes for this role, along with professional fluency in English and knowledge of another official OSCE language being an asset. Candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, the ability to work independently and as part of a team, and possess excellent communication skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree (second-level university degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Political Science, International Relations, Development Studies, Public Administration, Project Management, International Law, or Sociology. Candidates with a first-level university degree will also be considered if they have two additional years of relevant experience, making it essential for applicants to have a strong academic foundation in areas related to international relations and project management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience, with seven years being necessary if the candidate holds only a first-level university degree. This experience should include project management at the international level, demonstrating the candidate's ability to handle complex projects and navigate the intricacies of international cooperation and development.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official OSCE language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the diverse linguistic environment of the OSCE.

Additional Notes:
This position is open for secondment only, meaning that candidates must be nominated by their respective participating States. All costs related to the assignment must be borne by the nominating authorities. Seconded staff members are not entitled to a Board and Lodging Allowance from the OSCE. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The maximum period of service in this post is 10 years, and candidates should be aware that OSCE officials must conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status as international civil servants. The OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process, and appointments are subject to medical clearance.