Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, focusing on the needs of migrants and the communities they are part of. IOM's mission encompasses a wide range of migration-related issues, including labor mobility, social inclusion, and migrant protection, ensuring that the rights and dignity of migrants are upheld.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the Labour Mobility and Social Inclusion (LMI) Unit within the IOM Country Office for Belgium and Luxembourg. The incumbent will work closely under the supervision of the Project Associate and the Head of Unit, assisting in the implementation of various projects, particularly the SHIELD project. This position requires a proactive approach to project management, including monitoring project activities, liaising with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with project deliverables. The Project Assistant will also contribute to policy support and outreach efforts, identifying partnerships and drafting necessary documentation for project proposals and presentations. The role demands strong organizational skills, the ability to work under pressure, and effective communication abilities to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities, ensuring adherence to project timelines and deliverables; organizing steering committees and events related to the projects; supporting project partners and stakeholders in their roles; preparing necessary documentation for project budgets, contracts, and administrative tasks; drafting final narrative and financial reports for donor submission; identifying potential partnerships with civil society organizations and other stakeholders; drafting presentations and speeches for senior management; participating in meetings and conferences related to labor mobility and social inclusion; providing technical assistance for new project initiatives; and performing any other tasks as required by the project associate or management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or higher in economics, social science, migration studies, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with two years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a completed High School degree with four years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Proven experience in project implementation, particularly with EU-funded projects, is essential. A solid understanding of the Belgian context regarding migration and integration is required, and prior experience in labor mobility, social inclusion, or migrant protection is advantageous. Familiarity with child protection issues and a broad knowledge of migration-related areas will be considered beneficial.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field such as economics, social science, or migration studies from an accredited academic institution. Candidates with a completed High School degree may also be considered if they have substantial relevant professional experience. It is important that the educational qualifications are from institutions recognized in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that the candidates have received a quality education that meets international standards.

Experience:
Candidates should have proven working experience in project implementation, particularly with EU-funded projects. A strong understanding of the Belgian migration context and integration policies is crucial. Experience in labor mobility, social inclusion, or migrant protection is highly desirable, as is familiarity with child protection issues. The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated ability to manage projects effectively and work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and community organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English, French, and Dutch is mandatory, both orally and in writing. These languages are essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish, and proficiency in these languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may involve written and/or oral assessments to ensure candidates meet the language requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Belgium will be considered. The appointment will be contingent upon medical fitness certification, verification of residency, and necessary government authorizations. The selection process may also be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar roles for a period of 24 months. IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that contradicts the organization's objectives, including discrimination and harassment. Furthermore, IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through its online recruitment system.