Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. Established in 1951, IOM has grown to include 173 member states and operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on various aspects of migration, including return and reintegration, counter-trafficking, and assistance to vulnerable migrants. IOM's mission is to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and dignified, and it works closely with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to achieve this goal.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting IOM Finland's initiatives related to Return, Readmission, and Reintegration, with a specific emphasis on Assistance to Vulnerable Migrants (AVM) and Counter Trafficking (CT) projects. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Head of Office and the Programme Coordinator, collaborating with various units at Headquarters and other IOM missions. The position involves assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities, compiling and analyzing data, and ensuring effective communication and coordination among stakeholders. The Project Assistant will also be responsible for drafting reports, managing budgets, and providing guidance to junior staff, making this role integral to the success of IOM's mission in Finland.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: assisting in the implementation and monitoring of project activities; retrieving, compiling, summarizing, analyzing, and presenting information/data on specific project topics; monitoring project budgets and verifying the availability of funds; acting as a focal point for administrative coordination of project implementation; drafting status reports and correspondence on project issues; organizing meetings, workshops, and training sessions; participating in meetings and conferences; assisting in coordinating implementation activities with local authorities and partners; monitoring the work of implementing partners; and providing guidance and training to new or junior staff. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a school diploma with five years of relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related fields from an accredited academic institution, along with three years of relevant professional experience. Experience in working closely with governmental authorities, international institutions, and non-governmental organizations is essential. Familiarity with issues related to migrants, refugees, and vulnerable groups is highly desirable, as is prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a school diploma with extensive relevant experience or a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, or Law. Candidates must have graduated from an accredited institution recognized by the UNESCO World Higher Education Database, ensuring that their educational qualifications meet international standards.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have significant experience in working with governmental authorities, international institutions, and non-governmental organizations. Experience in dealing with migrants, refugees, and vulnerable populations is crucial, as is familiarity with the challenges faced by these groups. Previous work experience in a multi-cultural setting, particularly with international humanitarian organizations, is considered an advantage and will enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Languages:
For this position, a working knowledge of English, Finnish, and Swedish is required, both orally and in writing. Any additional languages spoken by beneficiaries are considered advantageous. IOM's official languages include English, French, and Spanish, and proficiency in these languages may be evaluated during the selection process, which could include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and only candidates holding a valid residence and work permit for Finland 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.