Program Assistant at JRS – October 2024

Job Title: Programme Assistant

Job Type: Full-Time
Location: Kibondo, Tanzania
Reports To: Programme Officer for Burundi
Supervisor: Project Director, Tanzania
Starting Date: As Soon As Possible
Position: 1

About Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS):

Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) is an international Catholic organisation committed to supporting refugees and forcibly displaced individuals. Our mission is to accompany, serve, and advocate for their rights, ensuring they can live with dignity. In Tanzania, JRS operates in refugee camps located in the Kigoma region, focusing on education, psychosocial support, and reconciliation.

JRS Tanzania’s team includes staff members across various levels, from incentive workers in the camps to project coordinators and directors. We aim to provide effective support while promoting a collaborative and inclusive working environment.

Role Overview:

The program assistant will be responsible for supporting project management efforts within JRS Tanzania. Working under the supervision of the Project Director and the Programme Officer for Burundi, this role is crucial in implementing JRS’s strategic priorities, ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality, cross-border programmes. The Programme Assistant will manage programmatic information, monitor project progress, and ensure that all activities comply with JRS and donor policies.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and coordinate the development and implementation of the programmatic strategy for JRS Tanzania.
  • Support cross-border programme initiatives between national operations.
  • Represent JRS in relevant forums and maintain strong relationships with key partners and stakeholders, including UNHCR, donors, and church organisations.
  • Ensure compliance with donor guidelines and provide timely narrative and financial reporting in collaboration with relevant teams.
  • Conduct regular evaluations of ongoing projects and provide guidance to field teams.
  • Monitor project cash flows and expenditures in collaboration with the Finance Officer.
  • Participate in budget preparation and project expenditure reviews to ensure alignment with donor requirements.
  • Provide leadership and technical support to field teams, ensuring capacity-building plans are implemented based on identified skill gaps.
  • Advocate for refugee rights and ensure all initiatives have a lasting impact on the communities served. Program Assistant

Qualifications and Skills:

  • Experience: Minimum of 4 years working in international organisations or similar contexts, including at least 3 years in project management.
  • Education: university degree in a relevant field (e.g., project management, monitoring and evaluation, international development).
  • Technical Skills: Proven experience in managing programmes with institutional donors (e.g., EU, UN agencies). Familiarity with project cycle management tools, including logical frameworks, work plans, and budget tracking.
  • Languages: Fluency in spoken and written English and French is required. Spanish is a plus.
  • Soft Skills: Strong leadership, people management, and communication skills, with proven diplomacy when working with diverse stakeholders.
  • Computer Skills: Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
  • Additional Requirements: willingness to work in challenging environments and experience with humanitarian programmes focused on refugees or vulnerable populations.

Core Competencies:

  • Striving for Excellence: focused on achieving results with efficient processes.
  • Collaboration: engages stakeholders and encourages feedback.
  • Leadership: takes initiative and drives innovation.
  • Communication: Listens and communicates clearly and effectively.
  • Integrity: Demonstrates commitment to JRS’s values.

Desirable Attributes:

  • Understanding of humanitarian work and international standards (e.g., Sphere, INEE).
  • Previous experience with faith-based organisations is a plus.
  • Experience in handling Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) cases.

Terms and Conditions:

  • Contract: Initial 1-year contract, renewable with a 3-month probation period.
  • Compensation: Aligned with JRS’s ethos of solidarity with the communities served, details will be discussed with shortlisted candidates.

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Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their application as a single PDF file to bdi-tz.hr@jrs.net, including:

  1. A one-page cover letter.
  2. A CV (maximum 3 pages) with contact information for three referees.
  3. Copies of work certificates and the highest diploma.

Application Deadline: November 30, 2024, by 5:00 PM (Burundi time).

Please note: Due to the urgency of filling this position, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

JRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We welcome applicants based on merit without regard to race, gender, religion, or disability.