Research and Coordination Assistant - Future Skills

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a leading global organization dedicated to ending poverty, inequality, and climate change, and serves as the UN System's technical lead for socio-economic responses to crises. UNDP partners with nations to build sustainable solutions for people and the planet. In Sri Lanka, UNDP has collaborated with the government since 1967, supporting crisis prevention, governance, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. The current assignment is within UNDP's Sustainable Growth Team, focusing on inclusive economic growth and future skills.

Job Purpose

This UN Volunteer assignment supports UNDP's Sustainable Growth Team in Sri Lanka, focusing on the critical area of 'Future Skills' amidst the country's evolving socio-economic challenges. The role is designed to contribute to strengthening national capacities for future-ready skills, enhancing financial inclusion, and informing policy through evidence-based research. The UN Volunteer will play a key part in fostering partnerships across government, the private sector, development partners, and academia. By providing analytical, research, and coordination support, the volunteer will help advance initiatives related to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), contributing to knowledge generation, stakeholder engagement, and programme implementation.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer will support research, coordination, and programme implementation within the Sustainable Growth Team, primarily focusing on the Future Skills Study and other inclusive economic growth initiatives. Key responsibilities include conducting background research, literature reviews, and analysis on future skills, global value chains, and skills development systems. The role involves assisting in the preparation of reports, briefs, and knowledge products. The volunteer will also support coordination with government counterparts, development partners, and private sector actors, including organizing meetings and follow-ups, and contributing to the planning and implementation of activities and events. Additionally, the position requires assisting in tracking project progress, maintaining documentation, and providing general support for team communication and coordination.

Work Experience

A minimum of one year of relevant experience in Economics, Development Studies, or a related social science field is required. Demonstrated interest in research, skills development, entrepreneurship, or sustainable economic growth through academic work or engagement is essential. Experience working with government, private sector, civil society, or development partners is desirable.

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, sound judgment, planning, organizing, professionalism, and self-management. Strong written and verbal communication skills, research and analytical abilities, coordination, and time management skills are necessary. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders are also important. Expertise in Communication, Economics and Finance, and Education is desirable.

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