Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) is dedicated to addressing a variety of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues, including counter-terrorism, border security, and transnational threats such as human trafficking. Established to support the Kyrgyz Republic, the office focuses on regional development, combating corruption, and reforming the justice sector. The organization also emphasizes gender equality and the establishment of open and resilient societies. The POiB operates within the framework of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which has a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy across its member states. The office employs a diverse team of professionals and collaborates with various stakeholders, including governmental and non-governmental organizations, to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant (PA) plays a crucial role in the Environmental section of the Economic and Environmental Department at the OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek. This position is integral to the implementation of projects aimed at enhancing the capacities of state institutions in environmental protection and climate change awareness. The PA will be responsible for providing administrative and substantive support for project activities, which includes organizing events, maintaining information databases, and collaborating with various stakeholders. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances while ensuring the smooth delivery of project objectives. The PA will work under the general supervision of the National Environmental Officer and will be involved in both the planning and execution phases of project activities, ensuring that all tasks are completed efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Assistant will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: providing information for ongoing projects and program activities; compiling background information from various sources; designing and drafting supporting documents such as flow charts and schedules; maintaining documentation systems to record project history; assisting in the administration of project proposals, budgets, and reports; checking project documents for clarity and completeness; liaising with counterparts to facilitate project activities; monitoring the implementation of activities and submission of reports; following up on project expenditures and financial status; preparing Purchase Requests and coordinating with partners; collecting and maintaining information on project activities; participating in field visits and discussions; drafting written outputs and financial reports; and providing translations and interpretations as needed. The PA will also be expected to engage with both internal and external stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of project activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess completed secondary education supplemented by specialized training or formal studies in international development, social sciences, economics, or environmental studies. A university degree in international/sustainable development, economics, or environmental studies is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in environmental security, sustainable development, climate change, or green economy, with preference given to those with experience in international organizations. Strong knowledge of national and regional developments related to environmental security and sustainable development is essential, along with experience in project management, including design, planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research, collect information from diverse sources, and possess digital literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office applications. A demonstrated commitment to gender awareness and sensitivity is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed secondary education, with additional specialized training or formal studies in relevant fields such as international development, social sciences, economics, or environmental studies. A bachelor's degree in international/sustainable development, economics, or environmental studies is highly desirable and will enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in fields such as environmental security, sustainable development, climate change, or green economy. Candidates with a first-level university degree may qualify with 4 years of experience, while those with a second-level university degree may qualify with 3 years of experience. Experience within an international organization is preferred, and candidates should have a solid understanding of the national and regional context concerning environmental issues and sustainable development.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory, along with proficiency in Russian and/or Kyrgyz languages. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is essential for the role, as the Project Assistant will be required to interact with various stakeholders and produce written documentation in both English and local languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract with a full-time schedule. The monthly remuneration is set at 1132 Euro, subject to social security deductions. Social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. Appointments are typically made at Step 1 of the OSCE salary scale, with the possibility of higher initial appointments based on relevant experience. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not reimburse expenses related to the application process, and candidates must be aware that appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years.