Project Assistant - United in Security Project at Search For Common Ground’s International

Locations: Adamawa (Yola) and Benue
Duration: 12 months with possibilities of extension, subject to budget availability and performance.

Job Description

• Search for Common Ground is looking for 2 Project Assistants. Under the supervision of the projects’ Project Manager in Nigeria, the Project Assistant is responsible for supporting the implementation and monitoring of project activities assigned to her/him.
• The Project Assistant will be responsible for assisting the project manager in project-related activities, ensuring smooth operations of the project and consistency of project implementation in line with Search’s and donor regulations.
• He/she shall ensure that the project’s plans are in place and kept updated as per the project’s overall objective.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Provide direction in the coordination and management of Search’s activities in the related project State.
• Organize and participate in workshops, needs assessments, consultations, planning sessions, and provide technical inputs as necessary. 
• Help identify the gaps and requirements in relation to the prevention of violent conflict. 
• Develop relations with partners and work towards the enhancement of the project 
• Support in the organization and implementation of activities; assistance in the design and delivery of training and other support activities. 
• Contribute to effective communication and reporting on project activities in the field.
• Provide inputs for periodic technical reviews and manage changes in program direction and focus; project monitoring, evaluation, accountability & learning, etc. 
• Conduct frequent supervision and monitoring visits to project areas and identify any issues needing attention related to implementation, compliance, and program quality standards. 
• Work closely with the Search team for the implementation of learning and recommendations from external or internal reviews and feedback. 
• Work with the project team to develop a detailed costed work plan at the start of the project and ensure monthly updates are made to the output databases. 
• Ensure that beneficiaries have access to feedback mechanisms and that data is monitored and responses are given within appropriate periods.
• In consultation with the Project Manager, represent Search at meetings, seminars, coordination fora, and other events. 
• Ensure good collaboration and working relationships with the government and other relevant partners. 
• Create appropriate links, working procedures and information sharing with key stakeholders
• Ensure project reports are produced on time and to a high standard. 
• Provide brief updates (bi-weekly or weekly) to the Project Manager and members as the case may be. 
• Report any new developments, problems, and challenges encountered in implementation promptly. 

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Peace Building, Development Studies or a related discipline (or equivalent experience)

Required Experience:

• At least 1-year experience of project implementation, including engagement with several actors – governments, community, and religious leaders, civil society, governments, security organizations and specialist networks, etc.

Other Relevant Requirements:

• A good understanding of  and North East and North Central Nigeria, particularly in terms of key political, social, security and economic issues 
• Resident in the state of application, speaks local language (Hausa, Fulfulde, Tiv, Idoma, etc.) and understands the terrain
• Excellent diplomacy and interpersonal skills and an ability to work in a non-partisan manner, appreciating gender, cultural and ethnic diversity 
• Ability to work individually, but also with experience of working effectively as part of a team
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively with attention to detail and an orderly approach to tasks
• Strong analytical skills, including drafting reports and briefings 
• Fluency in English (written and spoken). 
• Must have a ‘hands-on’, practical mentality, be self-driven, and very motivated.