National Project Assistant📣 Job Ad

About the Role

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking a National Project Assistant to support its operations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This role is integral to the UNDP's efforts in assisting the country's development agenda, particularly in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. The National Project Assistant will work closely with the UNDP team to ensure the effective oversight, planning, coordination, monitoring, and reporting of various projects.

Role Context and Responsibilities

UNDP operates in 170 countries, supporting country-led efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In Saudi Arabia, UNDP partners with government entities to enhance local institutional capacity and support policy-making. The National Project Assistant will provide crucial technical expertise and operational support to facilitate project execution and management. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting with operational and administrative processes for project needs.
• Providing daily support for the timely execution of approved project work plans.
• Monitoring project progress throughout the project cycle.
• Coordinating information exchange among programme partners.
• Supporting the organization and execution of project activities, including meetings, seminars, and workshops.
• Arranging team travel and logistics efficiently.
• Maintaining asset management records and preparing related reports.
• Initiating routine correspondence and drafting official project documents.
• Translating meeting minutes between Arabic and English.
• Undertaking and supporting project implementation and procurement activities, including contracting consultants and institutions.
• Managing project documentation, ensuring proper record-keeping for audits and closures.
• Assisting in the preparation of project work plans through data collection and analysis.
• Preparing background materials for discussions and briefing sessions.
• Contributing to progress reports by providing information and analyzing financial data.
• Documenting lessons learned and compiling project products.

Institutional Arrangement

The National Project Assistant will report to the UNDP Project Officer and will consult regularly with the National Project Manager (NPM).

Qualifications and Experience

Required qualifications and experience include:

• Secondary education is required. A University Degree (Bachelor’s degree) in Project Management, Business, Public Administration, International Affairs, Law, or an equivalent field will be given due consideration.
• A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible administrative or project experience is required with a high school diploma, or 2 years with a bachelor’s degree.
• Experience in research, analytical, and reporting activities within projects.
• Knowledge and experience working with governmental entities in Saudi Arabia.
• Excellent computer literacy, including MS Office and Internet proficiency.
• Proven knowledge of project cycle management in the public or private sector or international organizations is desirable.

Required Skills and Competencies

Candidates should possess the following skills and competencies:

• Excellent communication, report writing, and analytical skills.
• Demonstrated integrity and fairness, modeling UN values and ethical standards.
• Professional competence, conscientiousness, and efficiency in meeting commitments and achieving results.
• Experience displaying cultural, gender, religion, and age sensitivity and adaptability.
• Fluency in spoken and written English and Arabic is required.

Work Location and Type

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.