Project Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The UNESCO Hanoi Office is part of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), which was established in 194

• The organization aims to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The Hanoi Office focuses on implementing initiatives that support Vietnam's educational priorities, including projects that enhance educational systems, promote gender equality, and foster sustainable development. UNESCO operates in over 190 countries and has a mission to build peace through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The Hanoi Office is dedicated to transforming education in Vietnam and has a team of professionals committed to achieving these goals.

Job Overview:
The Project Assistant position within the Education Unit at UNESCO Hanoi Office is designed to provide comprehensive administrative, financial, and logistical support for various educational projects. The role is crucial for the successful implementation of key initiatives, particularly the 'Building Happy Schools' project, which aims to adopt a localized Happy Schools model in Vietnam. This position requires a proactive individual who can assist in managing project budgets, procurement processes, and compliance with administrative requirements. The Project Assistant will also coordinate with government counterparts and partners to ensure effective project execution, including organizing meetings, events, and translating materials. The role demands strong organizational skills and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders to enhance the visibility and impact of the projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Assistant will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Providing administrative, financial, and logistical support for key projects within the Education Unit, ensuring compliance with financial and administrative requirements.
• Assisting in the management of project budgets, including budget revisions and procurement processes.
• Supporting the drafting of terms of reference for agreements and contracts, and liaising with the Administrative Unit for contract preparation and settlement.
• Coordinating logistical arrangements for project implementation, including organizing missions, meetings, and events at both central and provincial levels.
• Assisting the Chief of Education in monitoring project activities and expenditures, preparing progress reports, and maintaining communication with partners and donors.
• Contributing to the visibility of the project through collaboration with the Communication Officer and partners for media coverage and outreach initiatives.
• Maintaining project documentation, filing systems, and databases.
• Performing any other tasks as assigned by the Head of Office or Chief of Education.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in education, economics, social sciences, developmental studies, public administration, business, management, finance, or other relevant fields. Additionally, candidates should have at least 3 years of relevant work experience in program/project support, financial, and/or administrative services. Experience in an international organization, particularly in the field of education, is considered an asset. Strong ICT skills, particularly in MS Office applications, are essential, along with excellent organizational and coordination abilities. Candidates should also demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills, as well as the capacity to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as education, economics, social sciences, developmental studies, public administration, business, management, or finance is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of project management and educational initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience in program/project support, financial, and/or administrative services. Experience working in an international organization, especially in the education sector, is highly desirable. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage project-related tasks effectively and contribute to the successful implementation of educational initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Vietnamese is mandatory for this position. Excellent communication skills in these languages are essential for effective collaboration with local partners, stakeholders, and team members. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is open to Vietnamese nationals only and is a full-time role based at the UNESCO Country Office in Hanoi. The contract duration is for 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funds. The position level is SC 6, and salaries are paid in local currency (VND). Candidates must complete an online application by the specified deadline, and the selection process may include video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply. All applications will be treated confidentially, and UNESCO maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment.