Associate Project Officer ( Education)

Recruitment Details

Recruitment open to: Internal and external candidates

UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism

Duration of contract: 1 year with possibility of extension subject to availability of funds and satisfactory performance

Organizational Context

As the only specialized organization with the mandate to support educational policy, planning and management, the IIEP plays a unique role within the United Nations system. It was established in 1963 as an integral part of UNESCO. IIEP supports ministries of education and partners worldwide in planning and managing education systems through capacity development programmes. The Institute launched its Medium‑Term Strategy (2026‑2029) in November 2025. Offices are located in Paris, Dakar, and Buenos Aires.

Key Role and Responsibilities

The incumbent will have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Support member states (MS) in the development, implementation, and monitoring of education sector analysis, plans, policies.
• Support the development of education sector, sub‑sector (including Early Childhood Education) and thematic diagnoses and analysis.
• Support the development and implementation of sector plans, including operational plans and M&E frameworks.
• Support the development of education policies and dialogue with Ministries of Education officials.
• Support development of management and monitoring tools and joint sector reviews.
• Assist in the design of training courses and capacity development programmes in planning, management and Early Childhood Education.
• Develop training materials, readers, activities, assessments, and support facilitation and evaluation of training activities.
• Contribute to production and dissemination of knowledge, methodological guides, research, and update IIEP’s digital platforms.
• Assist in the management of the technical cooperation portfolio: project and contract development, implementation, reporting, monitoring, and evaluation.

Core Competencies

• Communication
• Accountability
• Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
• Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in education, social sciences, international development, or related areas

Work Experience

• Less than 2 years of relevant professional experience in educational planning, sector analyses and plans, early childhood education planning.
• Experience developing and implementing tailor‑made training programmes for education professionals.
• Evidence‑based educational research, policy reviews, or data analysis.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent analytical skills and knowledge of global education issues in the context of the Sustainable Development Agenda and related frameworks.
• Ability to draft high‑quality, concise analyses, studies, concept notes, and project proposals.
• Excellent coordination, negotiation and presentation skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills in multicultural settings.
• Capacity to work under tight deadlines.

Languages

• Excellent level of English (verbal and written); working knowledge of French is an asset.
• Knowledge of another UNESCO official language.

Desirable Qualifications

• Expertise in education data management and analysis, including EMIS and assessment data.

Benefits and Entitlements

UNESCO salaries consist of a basic salary and additional benefits, which may include 30 days annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, pension plan, etc. The approximate annual starting salary is 67,723 USD.

Additional Information / EEO Statements

• UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of staff shall be securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity.
• UNESCO applies a zero‑tolerance policy against all forms of harassment.
• UNESCO is committed to achieving equitable and diverse geographical distribution, gender parity, and workforce diversity in gender, nationality, and culture. Candidates from under‑represented Member States are particularly welcome.
• Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply.
• All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
• Geographical mobility is required for staff members appointed to UNESCO’s international posts.
• The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years.
• UNESCO appointments are subject to medical clearance. Issuance of a visa by the host country is required for International Professional positions.
• UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.