Coordinador/a del Paquete de Trabajo para el Fortalecimiento Académico

Job Posting Organization:
The Instituto Técnico Superior Especializado (ITSE) was established under Law 71 on November 8, 2017, as a higher education institution in Panama. ITSE offers a range of academic programs through its four schools and has made significant investments in infrastructure and teacher training, collaborating with developed countries to enhance its educational offerings. The institution is dedicated to providing high-quality technical education and has received support from the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) to further develop its academic, institutional, and governance dimensions. ITSE aims to align its educational programs with the productive sector to improve the quality of technical education and prepare students for successful integration into the labor market. The partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) aims to strengthen ITSE's academic management and enhance its educational offerings, ensuring they are relevant and inclusive, thereby contributing to the country's competitiveness in the global economy.

Job Overview:
The position of Coordinador/a del Paquete de Trabajo para el Fortalecimiento Académico involves overseeing the implementation of academic strengthening initiatives at ITSE. The coordinator will work under the direct supervision of the education sector of UNESCO's Office for Central America, Mexico, and Colombia. The role includes responsibilities such as curriculum updates, dual training programs, training of trainers, and the design and implementation of a Science, Technology, and Innovation Plan for each school. The coordinator will ensure that all activities are executed efficiently, effectively, and sustainably, maintaining high technical and institutional standards. This position requires continuous communication with various stakeholders, including the Project Coordination Unit (UEP) and UNESCO, to ensure alignment and successful execution of the project objectives. The coordinator will also be responsible for planning, monitoring, and making necessary adjustments to the project processes, ensuring that the project meets its goals within the established timelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties and responsibilities of the Coordinador/a del Paquete de Trabajo para el Fortalecimiento Académico include:

• Providing comprehensive technical support to the Project Coordination Unit (UEP) in implementing the academic strengthening package.
• Ensuring the complete execution of the planned activities within the academic strengthening package, adhering to defined timelines and maintaining efficiency and effectiveness.
• Collaborating with the project director to engage in ongoing planning and monitoring, suggesting and implementing adjustments to technical and administrative processes for contracting and executing the work packages.
• Maintaining constant communication with UEP members, UNESCO San José, and other key stakeholders involved in the project.
• Participating in meetings with the GEE, UEP, UNESCO, and other relevant actors, preparing reports, presentations, and documentation as required.
• Performing additional functions as necessary for the efficient operation of the project, ensuring adherence to the guiding documents of the Specialized External Management (GEE).

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include:

• A Bachelor's degree in fields related to the service required, such as education, economics, or sociology.
• Postgraduate certifications in project coordination and management, education, technical education, or related areas.
• Proven experience of at least four (4) years in coordinating management services, administration, and assistance for contracting and executing work related to academic strengthening in the education sector.
• Experience in technical higher education is desirable.
• Experience in drafting Terms of Reference for public procurement of goods or services.
• Proven experience in capacity development initiatives for personnel in educational institutions, focusing on leadership, management, planning, and decision-making.
• Excellent planning, decision-making, and team coordination skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to produce various types of documents, including reports and presentations.
• Proficiency in communication and information technologies.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as education, economics, or sociology. Additionally, postgraduate certifications in project management, education, technical education, or related areas are required. A Master's degree or PhD in specialized fields of technical higher education is considered a desirable qualification.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of four (4) years of proven experience in coordinating management services, administration, and assistance for the contracting and execution of work related to academic strengthening in the education sector. Experience in technical higher education is highly desirable, along with experience in drafting Terms of Reference for public procurement and in capacity development initiatives for educational personnel.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, with a native level or advanced proficiency required. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate a strong command of English, both oral and written, to effectively communicate and collaborate in a bilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time, in-person role based at the ITSE offices in Panama City. The working hours are from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The contract duration is for 11 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance. Applicants must have the legal right to work in Panama to be considered for this position.