Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. Established in 1945, UNESCO has a mission to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication, and information. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of more than 2,000 employees. UNESCO is committed to fostering a culture of respect for diversity and promoting the values of integrity and professionalism in all its endeavors. The organization is currently involved in various projects aimed at enhancing educational quality and accessibility, particularly in developing countries, and is focused on addressing global challenges such as climate change through education.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the 'Facility for Action for Climate Empowerment to achieve the National Determined Contributions (FACE-NDC)' project, as well as the Capacity Development for Education (CapED) Programme in Zambia. This position requires a proactive individual who can provide both programmatic and administrative support to ensure the effective execution of project activities. The Project Assistant will work closely with the National Project Officer for Education, assisting in monitoring, evaluation, and reporting processes to align with UNESCO standards. The role involves maintaining financial and statistical data, coordinating meetings and events, and supporting advocacy efforts to promote climate change awareness within the education sector. The Project Assistant will also be responsible for procurement processes, ensuring compliance with UNESCO's rules and regulations, and managing contracts and vendor relationships. This position is integral to the successful delivery of educational initiatives that aim to empower Zambian society in achieving its climate goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of tasks including: providing administrative and programmatic support for the FACE-NDC project and CapED Programme; assisting in monitoring, evaluation, and reporting; supporting planning and budgeting for project activities; maintaining financial data for donor reports; coordinating meetings and events; managing financial resources; participating in internal and external meetings; organizing conferences and workshops; supporting advocacy efforts; assisting in mainstreaming climate change education; collaborating with finance teams; preparing documentation and logistics for meetings; developing a database of consultants; coordinating procurement of goods and services; drafting contracts; monitoring contract deliverables; initiating payments; conducting vendor due diligence; and managing travel requests and payments. The Project Assistant will also contribute to progress reports and maintain an updated filing system for documentation related to the programme.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary level education and possess a minimum of a first-level university degree in fields such as Education, Finance, Economics, Demography, Development Studies, Public Administration, or a degree related to Climate Change Education or Education for Sustainable Development. A strong understanding of project management principles and practices is essential, along with a good working knowledge of education systems, particularly in teacher education and climate change education. Experience with international organizations or the UN is considered an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a minimum of secondary education, with a preference for candidates who hold a first-level university degree in relevant fields such as Education, Finance, Economics, Demography, Development Studies, Public Administration, or related disciplines that focus on Climate Change Education or Education for Sustainable Development. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of the projects and the educational landscape in Zambia.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant work experience in project implementation and administrative support functions. This experience should include a solid understanding of education systems, particularly in the context of teacher education and climate change education. Relevant experience in project management, implementation, and reporting is essential, and familiarity with the operations of international organizations or the UN will be considered a significant advantage. The ability to handle a high volume of work and function effectively in a fast-paced environment is crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of a local language will be considered a plus, as it may enhance communication with local stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The position is a Service Contract Level 4, based in Lusaka, Zambia, with a contract duration of 11 months, subject to extension based on performance and availability of funds. The role is open to external candidates, and UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and encourages individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply. The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years, and the organization does not charge any fees during the hiring process. Qualified female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.