Assistant Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The OSCE operates in 57 participating States across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The organization focuses on a comprehensive approach to security that includes politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects. The OSCE Secretariat, located in Vienna, provides operational and administrative support to various field operations and institutions, ensuring that all participating States enjoy equal status and that decisions are made by consensus.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Project Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of a project aimed at advancing transboundary cooperation and Integrated Water Resources Management in the Dniester River basin. This position is funded under an Extra-Budgetary (ExB) Project, which is set to run until December 31, 202

• The incumbent will work closely with the Environmental Programme Officer and the Project Manager to ensure that the project is effectively coordinated and managed throughout its lifecycle. The role involves providing technical support, preparing project documentation, and facilitating communication among stakeholders, including UNDP Country Offices and technical experts. The Assistant Project Officer will also contribute to the visibility of project results and ensure compliance with OSCE and UNDP standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Project Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Supporting overall project implementation by focusing on project outcomes, outputs, and activities as outlined in the Project Document. This includes selecting and overseeing consultants and implementing partners, preparing budget forecasts and reports, conducting audits, and monitoring project progress.
• Preparing relevant project materials and documentation for approval by the Project Manager, maintaining communication with stakeholders, and providing substantive input to project reports.
• Assisting in the preparation of documents related to project activities, such as spot reports, concept notes, and summaries.
• Monitoring budget expenditures and proposing adjustments as necessary.
• Organizing logistical arrangements for meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
• Supporting project revisions in coordination with relevant OSCE departments and ensuring compliance with UNDP and GEF requirements.
• Contributing to the visibility of project results by preparing press releases and other communication materials.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the Environmental Programme Officer.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in Political Science, International Relations, Sustainable Development, or a related field. A minimum of two years of professional-level experience in project management is required, with one year of experience acceptable if the candidate holds a relevant second-level degree. Established project management skills, particularly with GEF/UNDP project management cycles, are highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate strong analytical, research, drafting, and presentation skills, as well as experience in environmental issues, especially transboundary water management. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory, and knowledge of other OSCE working languages is a strong asset. Candidates should also exhibit gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

Educational Background:
The position requires a first-level university degree, which is equivalent to a Bachelor's degree, in a relevant field such as Political Science, International Relations, Sustainable Development, or a related discipline. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of project management and environmental issues that the Assistant Project Officer will encounter.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least two years of professional-level experience in project management. This experience should ideally include familiarity with the GEF/UNDP project management cycle, which is crucial for the successful execution of the project. Candidates with one year of relevant experience may be considered if they hold a second-level degree, demonstrating the importance of advanced education in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as the role requires excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of other OSCE working languages would be considered a strong asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's objectives.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract with a monthly remuneration of approximately EUR 4,700, subject to adjustments based on family status and post adjustment. OSCE salaries are exempt from taxation in Austria, and social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. The contract is initially for one year, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The maximum period of service in this post is seven years, and candidates must be aware that appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years.