National Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that aims to promote social justice and fair labor practices. Established in 1919, the ILO has a mission to ensure that labor standards are upheld globally, promoting decent work for all. The organization operates in over 180 countries and has a diverse workforce dedicated to improving labor conditions and promoting employment opportunities. The ILO is committed to fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion within its workforce, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The National Project Coordinator (NPC) will play a crucial role in the ILO/China Partnership Project on Strengthening Skills Development in ASEAN through South-South and Triangular Cooperation. This nine-year regional program, funded by the Chinese Government, aims to enhance workers' employability and improve enterprise productivity through skills development initiatives and institutional capacity building. The NPC will be responsible for coordinating all activities related to skills and employability in Lao PDR, ensuring that project objectives are met effectively. The position requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, project partners, and colleagues from other countries involved in the project. The NPC will develop and monitor work plans, provide technical support, and promote ILO policies in relevant technical areas, contributing to the overall success of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Coordinator will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including reviewing and analyzing the country’s development plans and socioeconomic data to identify potential areas for technical cooperation. The NPC will collaborate with ILO constituents to design and revise project work plans, prepare budget proposals, and monitor project progress. This includes verifying reports for clarity and completeness, assisting in resource programming, and providing technical assistance to national partners such as the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare. The NPC will represent the ILO in national working groups, conduct research, and contribute to training materials and capacity development initiatives. Additionally, the NPC will prepare reports for donors, assist in drafting project proposals, and perform other duties as assigned by the Project Manager and direct supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in socio-economic science, development studies, or a relevant field. A Master’s degree is considered an advantage. The position requires at least two years of professional experience at the national level in project management, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, particularly in employment and skills development. Familiarity with UN policies and experience working with government bodies in Lao PDR are essential. Experience in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is also advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and proficiency in project administration and evaluation concepts.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree in a relevant field such as socio-economic science or development studies. A Master’s degree would enhance a candidate's qualifications and is viewed favorably by the hiring organization. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of project management and the socio-economic factors influencing skills development in the region.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of two years of professional experience in project management, particularly in areas related to employment and skills development. Experience working with government agencies and development partners is highly valued, as is familiarity with the policies and procedures of the United Nations. Candidates with a background in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) will have an advantage, as this knowledge is pertinent to the role's responsibilities.

Languages:
Proficiency in both Lao and English is mandatory for this position, with excellent spoken and written communication skills in both languages. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective interaction with local stakeholders and international partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not explicitly required for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a fixed-term contract for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. The role is classified as a National Officer position, which is subject to specific local recruitment criteria. The ILO emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The recruitment process is conducted online, and candidates are advised that no fees are charged at any stage of the application process. The NPC will work under the supervision of the Project Manager and will collaborate closely with other project team members and stakeholders.