Technical Cooperation Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote social justice and fair labor practices globally. Established in 1919, the ILO has a mission to ensure that labor standards are upheld and that workers' rights are protected. The organization operates in over 180 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 3,000 employees. The ILO focuses on various areas including employment, social protection, and labor rights, and works closely with governments, employers, and workers' organizations to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Technical Cooperation Specialist position is situated within the Universal Social Protection Department (SOCPRO) of the ILO, specifically in the Social Policy Unit. The primary function of this role is to enhance social protection coverage and effectiveness, particularly in social health protection, across developing countries. The incumbent will be responsible for providing technical expertise and support for the implementation of development cooperation projects aimed at extending social protection systems. This includes working closely with country teams to develop strategies, design schemes, and ensure the effective management of social protection initiatives. The role also involves compiling research, facilitating capacity building, and engaging in social dialogue to promote inclusive social protection systems that cater to vulnerable groups, including migrants and refugees. The position requires a collaborative approach, working under the supervision of the Health Protection Specialist and in coordination with various stakeholders at global, regional, and country levels.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will undertake a variety of duties including:

• Providing technical inputs aligned with ILO standards on social protection to country teams, focusing on strategies for extending social health protection.
• Guiding and supervising external collaborators to ensure effective project implementation.
• Compiling lessons learned and supporting the development of research and knowledge products related to social protection.
• Facilitating capacity building and knowledge sharing through field missions and effective communication with project partners.
• Supporting project cycle management and resource mobilization efforts, including liaising with donors.
• Preparing substantive inputs for monitoring and evaluation documents and ensuring accurate reporting on project activities.
• Assisting in budget execution and administration of development cooperation projects.
• Mainstreaming gender equality and non-discrimination in all project activities.
• Performing additional duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced level university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in economics, public health, social science, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. The role requires a strong understanding of social protection systems, particularly in relation to health protection, and the ability to apply analytical tools and techniques effectively. Excellent drafting and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as economics, public health, or social science. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) may be accepted if accompanied by additional relevant experience. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of social protection systems and health financing.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant professional experience in areas such as health insurance, social health protection, or social policy. Experience at the international level is a requirement, and prior involvement in extending health insurance and social protection to underserved populations is highly desirable. Familiarity with conducting analytical work that informs social protection policies is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is essential for this position, with excellent command required for effective communication. A working knowledge of French is highly desirable, and fluency in French would be considered a strong asset. Proficiency in additional languages would also be beneficial, enhancing the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for 12 months, subject to the availability of funding. The ILO emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The recruitment process includes an online application, and candidates may be contacted for assessments via various communication technologies. The ILO maintains a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring a safe and respectful work environment. Candidates must be medically fit to perform the job's inherent requirements, and any appointment is contingent upon compliance with ILO Staff Regulations.