The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) continues to play a central role in advancing international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication. Among its most impactful scientific bodies is the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), which works with Member States to promote marine science and sustainable ocean management worldwide.
In line with this mission, UNESCO is currently recruiting a Project Assistant (G-5) based in Paris, offering a unique opportunity for experienced administrative and project support professionals to contribute directly to global ocean sustainability efforts.
This position is particularly significant as it supports the implementation of the UN Ocean Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), a flagship global initiative coordinated by the IOC. For candidates seeking a meaningful international career that combines administration, project coordination, and environmental impact, this role offers both professional growth and global relevance.
Also Read:Unlocking Opportunity and Impact: Join UNHCR as a Statistics Intern in Copenhagen 2026
Overview of the Position
The Project Assistant post (Post Number: IOC/PA 040) is situated within the IOC Marine Policy and Regional Coordination Section of UNESCO. The role is classified at the G-5 grade and is offered under a Project Appointment for an initial duration of one year, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance.
- Duty Station: Paris, France
- Parent Sector: Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
- Job Family: Administration
- Recruitment: Open to internal and external candidates
- Application Deadline: 18 December 2025 (midnight, Paris time)
The position reflects UNESCO’s core values of commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, ensuring a respectful and inclusive work environment.
About the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
The IOC is UNESCO’s specialized body responsible for promoting international cooperation in marine sciences. With 152 Member States, the Commission coordinates programs in areas such as ocean observation, tsunami warning systems, marine policy, capacity development, and ocean literacy. Its work directly supports sustainable development, climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and peace through science-based decision-making.
A key responsibility of the IOC is coordinating the UN Ocean Decade, which aims to generate the science needed to support sustainable ocean management by 2030. Through this role, the Project Assistant will contribute to initiatives that influence global ocean governance, marine spatial planning, and the management of large marine ecosystems.
Role and Reporting Structure
Under the overall authority of the Assistant Director-General of the IOC (ADG/IOC) and the supervision of the Head of the IOC Marine Policy and Regional Coordination Section, the Project Assistant will work closely with the Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management Team. The role also involves continuous collaboration with the UNESCO World Heritage Centre’s Natural Heritage Unit, reflecting the inter-sectoral nature of UNESCO’s work.
For more information and job details
Join United Nations Opportunities WhatsApp Channel
The incumbent will support the development, coordination, implementation, and reporting of strategic initiatives, particularly those related to the IOC Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management Strategy.
Key Responsibilities
The Project Assistant plays a vital operational role, ensuring that projects are implemented efficiently and in compliance with UNESCO’s administrative and financial rules. Core responsibilities include:
Administrative, Procurement, and Finance Support
The role involves assisting with procurement and finance-related tasks such as processing contracts, purchase orders, and travel arrangements. This includes data entry in internal systems, drafting contract amendments, liaising with contractors, and preparing payment documentation in line with established procedures.
Documentation and Correspondence
The Project Assistant contributes to the preparation, review, and dissemination of documents including correspondence, reports, presentations, and memos. The role requires maintaining organized filing systems and liaising with corporate services for translation and printing. An important aspect is assisting with translation and editing of materials from English to French, including website and communication content.
Project Monitoring and Budget Support
Monitoring project activities and budgets is a core function. The incumbent supports data collection, prepares progress reports, provides regular expenditure updates based on SAP data, and works closely with administrative units to track commitments. Assistance with budget revisions, fund decentralization, and internal reporting is also required.
Communication and Visibility
The position contributes to project communication efforts by drafting simple communication materials, preparing social media content, and maintaining project webpages in coordination with the IOC communication team. This ensures that project outcomes are visible to stakeholders and the wider public.
Logistical and Meeting Support
The Project Assistant provides logistical support for missions, workshops, meetings, and conferences. Duties include preparing working documents, coordinating participants, managing logistics, and drafting meeting minutes or summaries when required.
Additional Support Functions
The incumbent may perform other related duties as assigned by the Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management Lead or the Head of Section, ensuring the effective delivery of the overall programme.
Required Qualifications and Skills
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Education
- Completed secondary education, or technical/vocational education.
Work Experience
- At least five years of relevant experience in administrative support and/or project or programme implementation assistance.
Core Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. The role requires professionalism, accountability, teamwork, results focus, and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment with tact, discretion, and respect for diversity.
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
- Knowledge of InDesign, WordPress, and enterprise resource planning systems such as SAP is considered an asset.
Languages
- Excellent knowledge of English or French, with a good working knowledge of the other language.
Benefits and Career Value
UNESCO offers an attractive compensation and benefits package. The approximate annual starting salary is €43,734, complemented by benefits that may include 30 days of annual leave, medical insurance, family allowances, and participation in a pension plan.
Beyond financial benefits, the role provides invaluable international experience, exposure to UN-wide initiatives, and the opportunity to contribute to globally significant work in ocean sustainability and science-based policy.
Selection Process and Equal Opportunity
All applications must be submitted online through UNESCO’s official careers platform. Candidates are assessed based on the criteria outlined in the vacancy notice, and the process may include tests, assessments, and interviews conducted via digital communication tools. Reference checks are carried out for candidates at the final stage.
UNESCO is committed to diversity, gender parity, and equitable geographical representation. Applicants from under-represented Member States, minority groups, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment.
How to Apply
If you are an experienced administrative professional with a passion for international cooperation and sustainable ocean management, this Project Assistant position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to UNESCO’s global mission.
