Switzerland: Project Assistant / Asia-Pacific Unit (50%)

The Geneva Centre for the Democratic Control of Armed Forces (DCAF) is dedicated to improving the security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. DCAF contributes 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 comprises 62 member states, the Canton of Geneva and six permanent observers. 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 please visit www.dcaf.ch

DCAF’s Asia-Pacific Unit provides support to nationally-led SSR processes and regional security sector experience-sharing initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region. We are looking for a dynamic and committed individual to be our next:

Project Assistant (50%)

Location: Geneva

Starting date: 01 September 2018 or upon mutual agreement

Duration: Unlimited

The role

Under the direct supervision of the Unit’s Head, the Project Assistant provides research, editing, logistical and administrative support.

Main responsibilities:

• Carry out targeted research, prepare briefing notes and review and update country- and region-wide mappings on security sector requirements and initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region;

• Assist in the review, editing and layout of internal reports and publications;

• Carry out logistical and administrative tasks;

• Perform other tasks as required.

  Education, competencies and experience:

• Graduate student, preferably in political science, international affairs, security studies, law, governance, or related disciplines;

• English mother tongue or fluency in English is essential, other languages highly desirable;

• Outstanding research, writing and analytical skills, including the ability to process and analyse data;

• Demonstrated ability to review, edit and layout texts suitable for publication;

• Demonstrated understanding of security sector governance and reform;

• Familiarity with the work of international organizations and knowledge of and familiarity with countries in the Asia-Pacific region desirable;

• Excellent IT skills; other relevant skills, including strong organizational abilities, communication skills, ability to work under time pressure and with strict deadlines, ability to work independently and with others in an international environment;

• Swiss or EU citizenship or a valid work permit for Switzerland at the time of application is a pre-requisite.

We offer:

• a rewarding, dynamic and challenging work experience;

• the chance to be part of a multicultural team of supportive, hardworking and values-driven people;

• the 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.

If you think you are a good match for DCAF and the position advertised, please send your application to asia-pacific@dcaf.ch by 01 August 2017 with the subject heading “PA Asia-Pacific”, 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.