At DCAF, we envision a world where democratic sector governance advances sustainable peace and development and human dignity for all.
Our mission is to advance the security of all people through nationally owned, inclusive, and participatory security sector reforms based on international norms and good practices.
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.
Junior Project Officer (JPO)
Workplace: Geneva
Contract type: Time-limited contract
Activity rate: 100%
Entry date: 15/09/2026
Publication date: 24/08/2026
DCAF’s Europe and Asia team is implementing projects to strengthen security sector governance and oversight in the region and to assist in national security sector reform processes. To strengthen the team implementing our assistance project in Armenia, DCAF is currently looking for a qualified, dynamic and motivated Junior Project Officer:
Junior Project Officer (JPO) 100%
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Starting date: September 2026
Duration: Until 31 December 2026
YOUR ROLE
Under the supervision of the Deputy Head of the DCAF Europe and Asia entity, the JPO will support the conceptualization, planning and implementation of activities to foster security sector governance and oversight with a particular focus on Armenia. The JPO will:
· Assist in implementing projects, including contributions to project admin and finance processes;
· Support the implementation of and reporting on project activities and preparation of information dissemination on project results;
· Assist in organizing capacity building activities, e.g. workshops, seminars and other training activities, including the logistical set-up of events and the preparation of training materials;
· Facilitate research on project-related topics;
· Provide assistance in preparation and submission of necessary financial and narrative documentation according to relevant DCAF and donor procedures;
· Draft and follow up contracts, keep track of reporting requirements and relevant payments;
· Facilitate data collection to monitor project activities;
· Maintain records, documents and other information on project activities;
· Prepare material for webpage and IT based project management tools;
· Any other assigned substantive and administrative tasks.
YOUR EXPERIENCE
· University degree in political science / international relations and/or law. A specialization in security policy / security and conflict management / security sector governance is considered an asset.
· Prior experience in assisting the management of projects, including support to administrative and finance processes related to project management.
· Prior experience in assisting in the organization of conferences, workshops and training activities is preferred.
· Knowledge of / academic focus on Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus with a focus on security sector reform is considered an asset.
· Prior experience in drafting narrative and financial donor reports is considered an asset.
· Prior experience in managing, monitoring and reporting on project finances is considered an asset.
· Experience in results-based project management will be considered an asset.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
· Swiss or EU citizenship or a valid work permit for Switzerland at the time of application is a pre-requisite.
· Excellent command of written and spoken English.
· Excellent drafting and editing capacities.
· Knowledge of Armenian or Russian language is considered an asset for this position.
· Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and working relations in a multi-cultural environment.
· Strong organizational skills with effective time management and ability to prioritize and plan own work to meet deadlines.
· Ability to work with colleagues at all levels, to multitask, and to handle tight deadlines and stressful situations.
· Precision and accuracy in executing tasks.
· Diplomacy, tact, discretion, and an impeccable record for integrity and professional ethical standards.
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 apply online by September 6, 2026 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)
· a copy of your diplomas and work certificates (in one pdf document)
DCAF is committed to equality of opportunity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of sex, age, disability, neurodiversity, gender identity, religion, or ethnicity.
DCAF is bound by the legal requirements and regulations regarding the issuance of work permits of the jurisdictions in which we operate.
Apply Here: https://www.dcaf.ch/vacancies#/offer/4443/junior-project-officer-jpo