Vacancy: Programme Officer
PROGRAMME OFFICER
About ICOS
ICOS is an independent, not-for-profit organisation advocating for the rights of international students in Ireland, and promoting good policy and high standards for international education in Irish higher education. ICOS also administers the Ireland Fellows Programme on behalf of the Department of Foreign Affairs (the “Programme”).
About the Role
The Programme Officer will form a part of ICOS’ Programme Team, providing administrative and operational support in ICOS’ delivery of its commitments to the Ireland Fellows Programme. This is a professional and dedicated team supporting students from participating countries at master’s level who have been awarded fellowships due to their academic excellence, future leadership potential and their dedication to advancing Sustainable Development Goals in their home countries. As the Programme is expanding, ICOS is seeking to recruit an additional member to the team. The role is initially for 6 months, with the intention to extend to 3 years depending on funding.
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will have:
- A minimum two years’ experience in a similar role
- Experience of programme delivery and administration
- Knowledge of, and interest in, Ireland’s international development policy
- Knowledge of the higher education sector in Ireland and globally
- Excellent IT skills
- Excellent organisation and interpersonal skills
- Experience working with figures and/or large spreadsheets.
- The ability to work on own initiative as part of a team
- An interest in social justice and human rights.
Responsibilities
Include, but are not limited to:
- Administrative tasks associated with the delivery of the Programme, including processing applications, supporting and tracking the placement of candidates onto college programmes and accommodation arrangements.
- Travel logistics for arriving and departing fellows.
- Updating and reviewing information and guidance packs for fellows.
- Updating and maintaining the Programme database.
- Fellowship casework.
- Event management.
- Assistance with administration of the Programme’s finances.
The successful applicant will also be expected to actively contribute to the broader ICOS team and, on occasion, provide administrative support for other activities as required.
The following are essential criteria for the post:
- A minimum of two years’ relevant work experience.
- Strong organisation and time management skills.
- Experience working with figures and/or large spreadsheets.
- The ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Strong analytical skills, attention to detail and a resourceful approach to problem solving.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Excel and Word.
The following are highly desirable criteria for this post:
- A third-level qualification in a relevant area
- Work experience in the community/voluntary sector and/or the higher education sector.
- Experience in programme delivery and/or in a customer-facing role.
- Experience working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
- Knowledge/experience of international development work, Ireland’s international development policy and the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Experience using databases such as Salesforce, Microsoft Access and Excel.
Criteria
Essential
- Two years’ previous work experience in a similar role
- Organised and good time management
- Experience working with figures and/or large spreadsheets.
- Analytical and problem solving
- Experienced team worker
- Strong IT skills
Desirable
- Relevant third-level qualification
- Programme delivery and/or administration experience
- Experience in a customer-facing role
- A good understanding of Irish international development policy
-
Intercultural experience
Salary & Terms
The position is offered on an initial 6-month contract, which ICOS intends to extend, subject to funding.
The rate of annual salary for this role is in the range of €30,000 to €35,000 for a 35-hour week, depending on experience.
Access to ICOS’ pension and health insurance schemes is available after the completion of a probationary period if the contract is extended beyond the initial 6-month period.
Closing date for receipt of applications is midnight on Sunday, March 7th with interviews of shortlisted candidates anticipated on the week of March 15th. Interviews will take place remotely via Zoom.
Applications must include a CV and a cover letter outlining your motivation and relevant experience, and should be emailed to Ms. Laura Harmon, Executive Director – lharmon@icosirl.ie.
Informal enquiries may be made to ICOS at +353 83 1621274 and candidates should note that canvassing will disqualify.
Further information for candidates:
Irish Council for International Students www.internationalstudents.ie
Ireland Fellows Programme www.irishaidfellowships.ie
ICOS is an equal opportunities employer.