Program Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment for individuals affected by conflict and disaster. The organization is dedicated to delivering impactful humanitarian aid and fostering resilience in communities, aiming to help people survive, reclaim control over their futures, and strengthen their communities. With a workforce committed to making a difference, the IRC is recognized as a leading force for humanity, striving to create a better future for millions worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Program Associate (PA) will play a crucial role in supporting the administrative functions of the Emergency Unit (EMU) within the IRC. This position encompasses a variety of responsibilities, including logistics, finance, human resources, and events management. The PA will be integral to the EMU's mission of addressing immediate survival needs and reducing suffering in populations affected by conflict or disaster. The role offers a unique opportunity for career development, allowing the PA to deploy to IRC Country Programs, either in-country or remotely, to gain hands-on experience in humanitarian response. Additionally, the PA will have access to online courses and potential training opportunities, enhancing their skills and knowledge in international humanitarian and development work. The position is designed to provide exposure to various aspects of emergency response and the chance to develop technical insights in areas of personal interest.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Associate will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: supporting travel and lodging arrangements for EMU staff; assisting with visa applications and related logistics; processing onboarding paperwork for new staff; scheduling orientation sessions; tracking leave balances; supporting staff appreciation activities; providing procurement support through the INTEGRA platform; processing vendor invoices and payments; managing corporate credit card transactions; assisting in planning and organizing events such as the EMU annual conference; and providing administrative support to senior management meetings. The PA will also be expected to maintain effective communication with various stakeholders and ensure that all administrative functions are executed efficiently and accurately.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Program Associate position should possess a strong interest in humanitarian aid and a desire to gain practical experience in the field. Attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a dynamic environment are essential. Familiarity with budgeting and accounting principles is advantageous. Excellent interpersonal communication skills are required, along with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural setting. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to thrive under pressure, work independently, and maintain confidentiality. A customer service orientation and a proactive approach to problem-solving are also important attributes for this role.

Educational Background:
While specific educational requirements are not explicitly stated, candidates are generally expected to have a relevant degree or equivalent experience in fields related to humanitarian aid, international development, or a similar area. A background in administration, finance, or human resources may also be beneficial for this position.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have some level of experience in administrative roles, particularly within humanitarian or development contexts. While prior experience in the field is not mandatory, any exposure to emergency response or related environments will be considered an asset. The position is suitable for individuals looking to develop their careers in humanitarian aid and gain valuable insights into the workings of international organizations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. Multilingual abilities are advantageous, particularly in languages such as French, Spanish, and Arabic, which are prioritized for this role.

Additional Notes:
The Program Associate position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and operates within a standard office work environment. The role is full-time and may involve occasional travel or remote deployment to support humanitarian responses. The IRC emphasizes professional standards and adherence to core values, including integrity, service, equality, and accountability. All employees are expected to uphold these standards and contribute to a safe and supportive work environment.