Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO works to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health. The organization focuses on various health issues, including disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency response, and collaborates with governments and partners to improve health systems worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the risk assessment component of the Pandemic Fund project under the supervision of the WHO Representative to Sri Lanka and the Chief Epidemiologist. This position involves coordinating and scheduling various meetings, workshops, and training programs at both national and subnational levels. The Project Assistant will be responsible for maintaining effective communication with multi-sectoral stakeholders, monitoring implementation progress against work plans, and documenting all relevant correspondence and meeting outputs. The role requires strong organizational skills to manage records and provide logistical support for various activities, ensuring that all administrative requirements are met efficiently. The Project Assistant will also assist in preparing reports and institutional submissions, ensuring timely communication with relevant authorities and partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Assistant include:

• Coordination and Scheduling: Organizing and scheduling meetings, workshops, and training programs, ensuring effective communication with stakeholders regarding agendas and follow-up actions.
• Documentation and Correspondence: Preparing and circulating official correspondence, meeting agendas, minutes, and technical documents, as well as assisting in the creation of PowerPoint presentations.
• Records Management: Compiling and maintaining systematic records of administrative documents and meeting outputs, ensuring proper filing for reporting and reference.
• Logistical and Administrative Support: Providing logistical support for meetings and training activities, including venue coordination and participant communication, as well as coordinating travel and other administrative needs.
• Reporting and Institutional Support: Assisting in the preparation of administrative inputs for progress reporting and ensuring timely submission of documents to the Epidemiology Unit and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Project Assistant position include:

• Education: Completion of secondary school education (GCE A/L) in the biological sciences stream, along with a certificate in Project Management or Business Administration. A bachelor's degree in health sciences, public health, veterinary sciences, environmental sciences, or a related discipline is desirable.
• Experience: A minimum of 4 years of work experience as a Project Officer or in a similar role is essential. Experience working with the Government Sector or UN/International Organizations is desirable, along with familiarity with the UN system and grant funding processes.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed secondary school education with a focus on biological sciences (GCE A/L) and possess a certificate in Project Management or Business Administration. A bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as health sciences, public health, or environmental sciences is considered an advantage.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 4 years of relevant work experience as a Project Officer or in a similar capacity. Experience in the government sector or with UN/International Organizations is preferred, as well as familiarity with grant funding and monitoring and evaluation processes.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is mandatory, along with expert knowledge of a local language, either Sinhala or Tamil. Fluency in English and Sinhala is required, and knowledge of Tamil is considered an added advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to Sri Lankan Nationals of all genders, with a particular encouragement for qualified female candidates to apply. The role offers a locally competitive salary package, including health insurance, annual leave of 2.5 days per month, and sick leave of 7 days per year. The WHO maintains a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users. The vacancy may also be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade/level.