National Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to defeat hunger and improve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition globally. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 195 members, comprising 194 countries and the European Union. The organization operates in over 130 countries, providing policy advice and technical support to enhance agricultural practices and food systems. FAO's mission aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on creating efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agrifood systems. In Papua New Guinea, FAO implements various Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) projects that address national priorities in agriculture, food security, and nutrition, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of better production and better nutrition.

Job Overview:
The National Project Assistant position is crucial for providing programmatic and operational support for the planning, implementation, monitoring, and closure of country-level Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) projects in Papua New Guinea. The role involves assisting in project coordination, organizing meetings, and facilitating capacity development activities. The incumbent will prepare operational and procurement documentation, monitor project inputs and budgets, and manage project information using FAO's corporate systems. This position requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Head of Office, National Project Management Specialist, and other team members, to ensure that project objectives align with national strategies and FAO's corporate frameworks. The National Project Assistant will play a key role in ensuring effective project cycle management and the delivery of practical interventions that support sustainable agrifood systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of tasks, including: providing program and operational assistance to the National Project Management Specialist and FAOPNG team members; supporting the organization and coordination of meetings with stakeholders; facilitating workshops and training sessions; preparing letters of agreement and procurement documentation; following up on studies commissioned by TCPs; preparing background materials and meeting minutes; drafting official correspondence; maintaining organized filing systems; facilitating knowledge management; assisting in the preparation of briefs, speeches, and reports; contributing to outreach communication materials; managing information on corporate platforms; preparing documentation for missions; supporting project cycle processes; and assisting in the closure of TCPs by preparing necessary documentation. The role also involves monitoring project budgets and providing administrative support to TCP Project Managers as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma in business administration, public administration, management, finance, or a relevant field. Additionally, at least three years of relevant experience in program or project administrative support, operations, or coordination is required, preferably in technical cooperation or development projects. A working knowledge of English at a proficient level (Level C) is mandatory, and candidates must be nationals of Papua New Guinea. FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma in a relevant field such as business administration, public administration, management, or finance. Candidates must have obtained their qualifications from institutions accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in providing program or project administrative support, operations, or coordination. Experience in supporting technical cooperation or development projects is preferred, and candidates should demonstrate familiarity with project support functions and operational documentation processes.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not specified as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website for additional opportunities.