Project Assistant

DCA is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Project Assistant with technical expertise in business and human rights, project management, and advocacy for human rights and knowledge of relevant legal and regulatory frameworks for human rights and agriculture. The successful candidate will provide operational, technical, and administrative support to DCA Projects focused on human rights in agricultural value chains while contributing to other development and humanitarian initiatives. The Project Assistant will be based in Nairobi with regular travel to various project sites in Nakuru, Nyandarua and the larger Nairobi Metropolis (comprising Kajiado, Kiambu, Machakos, Murang'a and Nairobi City). Depending on need, the position may be relocated to be based in Nakuru in the future. 

The main responsibilities of the Project Assistant are:

1. Support project activities, including planning, implementation, advocacy efforts, stakeholder engagement and reporting.
2. Provide technical expertise on business and human rights, including supporting research and analysis, development of tools and resources, integration of human rights principles into programs, and support for advocacy efforts to promote responsible business conduct in agricultural value chains.
3. Provide cross-sectoral support through research, data collection, and stakeholder engagement. 
4. Contribute to proposal development, funding applications, and strategic planning across development and humanitarian projects.
5. Manage administrative and operational functions, including coordinating meetings, tracking budgets and procurement, supporting financial reporting, and maintaining effective communication with internal teams, partners, and project participants.

Required Education and Experience

Education:

The ideal candidate should be a holder of a degree in law, human rights, development studies, international relations or another relevant field required.

Experience:

The ideal candidate should:

• Have a minimum of three (3) years of professional experience in human rights programming, advocacy, and multi-stakeholder engagement, preferably with INGOs.
• Have proven experience supporting projects, including planning, monitoring, and reporting.
• Have knowledge of business and human rights principles, regulatory frameworks, and their application in agriculture or related sectors.
• Have strong ability to conduct legal and policy research, analyze data, and synthesize findings into actionable recommendations.

Other Competencies: 

The candidate should also have:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences effectively.
• The ability to manage multiple tasks and projects in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Self-motivation, creativity and an ability to perform without close supervision.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply via the Link https://dca.career.emply.com/en/national-positions. The deadline for applications is 7th May 2025. 

Any published closing dates are estimated. We aim to fill this vacancy as quickly as possible. This means that we will close adverts as soon as we have found the right candidate, and this may be before the published closing date. We would therefore advise interested applicants to apply as early as possible.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

DCA offers: The position is for a period of 24 months. DCA offers a competitive salary package (salary, insurance, and benefits) in accordance to experience and DCA Kenya HR Manual. 

DCA is an equal opportunity employer, and all interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of race, gender, marital status and religious, political, or ethnic affiliation. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. 

DCA conducts a thorough anti-terror check as part of the recruitment process. It is a prerequisite that you can pass this check and maintain this status throughout your employment period.

About DCA: DanChurchAid (DCA) is working in Turkana, West Pokot, Baringo, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nyandarua, Nakuru, Nairobi, Busia and Siaya counties with refugees and local communities to enhance peace, livelihoods and resilience. DCA implements projects directly as well as through local partner organizations. For more information on DCA, please visit www.danchurchaid.org.