NATIONAL PROJECT OFFICER
DCAF – Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance is dedicated to improving the security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and gender equality. Since its founding in 2000, DCAF has contributed to making peace and development more sustainable by assisting partner states, and international actors supporting these states, to improve the governance of their security sector through inclusive and participatory reforms. It creates innovative knowledge products, promotes norms and good practices, provides legal and policy advice and supports capacity‐building of both state and non‐state security sector stakeholders.
DCAF’s Foundation Council members represent over 50 countries and the Canton of Geneva. Active in over 70 countries, DCAF is internationally recognized as one of the world's leading centres of excellence for security sector governance (SSG) and security sector reform (SSR). DCAF is guided by the principles of neutrality, impartiality, local ownership, inclusive participation, and gender equality. For more information visit www.dcaf.ch and follow us on Twitter @DCAF_Geneva.
The overall objective of DCAF’s activities in Europe and Central Asia is to contribute to peace, stability, and democracy in the region by supporting good governance in the security and justice sector. The multi-donor funded and DCAF-implemented Intelligence and Security Sector Reform Programme in the Republic of North Macedonia (2021-2026), aims to make an effective and sustainable contribution to improved security and intelligence sector accountability and governance.
For our Europe and Central Asia Division Office in Skopje, we are looking for an experienced, committed and motivated individual to be our next:
National Project Officer – (100%)
Location: Skopje, with travel across the country
Starting date: Immediately
Duration: Until 31.12.2023, with the possibility of extension (pending funding and approval by donors)
Type of employment: Fixed-term, full time, national contract
The role
As a Project Officer you will support planning and implementation activities within a multi-donor funded “Intelligence and Security Sector Reform Programme in North Macedonia” (2021-2026).
You will become part of a team of highly motivated and committed Programme colleagues working out of Skopje, Ljubljana, and Geneva. You will be based in Skopje, with occasional travel to Geneva or elsewhere.
Key areas of operation
Primarily, you will be supporting DCAF Programme team in implementing Programme activities. This requires frequent dialogue and coordination with Programme stakeholders as part of activity planning. You will work under the supervision of the Legal Representative in the Skopje Office.
Tasks include (but are not limited to):
• Support to Programme coordination and implementation;
• Coordination with DCAF and local experts in the conceptualisation, preparation and delivery of project activities (assessments, research, workshops etc.);
• Communication and regular dialogue with Programme stakeholders;
• Assist in monitoring and drafting Programme performance reports;
• Assist the implementing team/Programme Manager as required;
• Monitor country developments and identify challenges and opportunities for DCAF;
• Other Programme related responsibilities.
Your experience
• University degree or equivalent in the field of law, security, management, economics, political science/international relations, or related field;
• Relevant working experiences of minimum 5 (five) years;
• Understanding of the landscape of security institutions, CSOs, development agencies and international organizations in North Macedonia;
• Knowledge in results-based project/project cycle management;
Minimum requirements
• Macedonian citizenship and valid residency at the time of application;
• Fluency in English, including excellent drafting skills;
• Excellent inter-personal, communication and organizational skills;
• Analytical and research skills;
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office applications – Word and Excel;
• Ability to act impartially in a politically sensitive environment.
• Ability to travel in the country and abroad approximately 30 days annually;
Skills and experiences considered an asset
• Published articles or research papers in relevant fields;
• Experienced with outreach and visibility technical tools;
• Knowledge of Albanian language.
We offer
• a rewarding, learning, dynamic and challenging work experience
• a chance to be part of a multicultural team of supportive, hardworking and values-driven people
• a chance to contribute to improving security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for human rights
• An employment contract under North Macedonia employment law and DCAF professional standards and policies.
If you think you are a good match for DCAF and the position advertised, please apply online at
https://dcaf-flexperso.ch by 17 April 2023 (midnight), enclosing:
• a one-page motivational statement in English describing your relevant experience and what you can bring to DCAF
• a concise CV (maximum two pages)
DCAF is committed to equality of opportunity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of sex, age, disability, gender identity, religion, or ethnicity.
Individuals who seek to serve with DCAF in any individual capacity will be required, if short-listed, to complete a self-attestation stating that they have not committed or been convicted of any criminal offence and have not been involved, by act or omission, in the commission of any violation of international human rights law or international humanitarian law.
https://www.dcaf.ch/national-project-officer