About the Organization
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading United Nations-related agency established in 1951, dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM collaborates with governments, intergovernmental bodies, and non-governmental organizations to provide essential services and advice to migrants and communities in need. The organization maintains a strong focus on humanitarian assistance, development support, and protection of vulnerable populations.
IOM is committed to fostering a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally and develop their skills in a multicultural environment. The organization emphasizes inclusion, integrity, professionalism, empathy, and courage in its work culture. Women, people with disabilities, and members of underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply.
Job Description
The Project Assistant (CBI) will support Multipurpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) interventions under the Shelter, Non-Food Items (NFI), and Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) programs in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. This role is critical in ensuring timely and efficient delivery of cash assistance to migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, and other vulnerable groups.
The successful candidates will work under the technical supervision of the Programme Coordinator (Shelter/NFI/CCCM) and the direct supervision of the Senior Project Associate. They will provide essential support for project implementation, administration, and coordination, contributing to the overall success of humanitarian programs.
The position is designed to develop professional skills in humanitarian assistance, project management, and inter-agency coordination. Candidates will gain experience in working with international and local stakeholders, including UN agencies, governmental authorities, and non-governmental organizations.
Educational Qualification
- High School Diploma with three years of relevant professional experience, or
- Bachelor’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, International Relations, Development Studies, Migration Studies, Human Rights, Law, or related fields with at least one year of relevant experience.
Work Experience
- Experience liaising with governmental authorities, UN agencies, NGOs, and other relevant institutions.
- Experience working with migrants, refugees, internally displaced persons, victims of trafficking, and other vulnerable populations.
- Prior work with international humanitarian organizations or government institutions in a multicultural setting is considered an advantage.
Responsibilities
- Provide general and clerical assistance in the implementation of project activities.
- Retrieve, compile, summarize, and present information and data on specific project topics.
- Assist in monitoring and updating project budgets and related information.
- Support administrative coordination for project implementation, including liaising with organizational units and external partners to process requests and obtain necessary clearances.
- Draft status reports, correspondence, briefing notes, graphics, statistical tables, and presentations.
- Organize meetings, workshops, and training sessions.
- Respond to general information requests and maintain project files and records.
- Support the delivery of professional capacity-building activities.
- Perform other related duties as assigned to support program objectives.
Required Skills and Competencies
- In-depth understanding of migration-related issues and humanitarian response programming.
- Knowledge of UN and bilateral donor programming and financial rules.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and report-writing skills.
- Fluency in English and Amharic (both oral and written); knowledge of Oromigna is desirable.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure.
Career Development and Impact
This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain practical experience in humanitarian project management and cash-based interventions. Project Assistants will contribute directly to improving the lives of vulnerable populations by ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of assistance.
Staff members in this role will benefit from professional development opportunities, including exposure to inter-agency coordination, project monitoring and reporting, and engagement with diverse stakeholders. They will develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills applicable to future roles within the humanitarian and development sectors.
The position provides a platform for aspiring professionals to build a career in international development, humanitarian assistance, and migration-focused programs. Engagement with field teams, government officials, and international organizations allows for networking and practical learning opportunities.
Job Location
Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. Field visits and interaction with local communities are part of the role to ensure effective delivery of cash assistance.
Employment Type and Contract
This is a consultancy position under an affiliated contractor arrangement, equivalent to G3. The contract duration is up to 11 months, with an initial term of 6 months.
IOM covers affiliated contractors against occupational accidents and illnesses under the Compensation Plan (CP) free of charge. Contractors are responsible for their own medical insurance for non-occupational accidents or illnesses.
Application Guidelines
Interested candidates must apply through the IOM e-Recruitment system before the deadline. Only duly completed applications will be considered. Scanned certificates, attachments, or additional documents are not required at this stage.
Deadline for Application
Applications must be submitted by 03/10/2026, 02:59 AM.
Additional Notes
IOM has a strict zero-tolerance policy for any form of misconduct, including sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Women, people with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.
This role provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on humanitarian response while developing professional expertise in cash-based interventions and project support within a globally recognized UN agency.