Project Assistant

About the company:

The International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) is an intergovernmental organization that fosters international collaboration by connecting scientists from Armenia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan with research institutions in the EU, Japan, Norway, South Korea, and the U.S.

Through its work, ISTC advances global scientific engagement, supports regional security and innovation, and enables researchers to contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

Joining ISTC means becoming part of a mission-driven organization where your contributions directly support high-impact international projects in science, technology, and global security. This role offers valuable exposure to international cooperation, modern project management tools, and opportunities for professional growth in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.

Job Summary:

ISTC is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Project Assistant (PA) to support the planning, implementation, and monitoring of various projects. The ideal candidate will assist project manager in coordinating tasks, maintaining documentation, communicating with stakeholders, and ensuring that project deadlines and deliverables are met.

The PA will act in the framework of the existing ISTC policies and procedures in accordance with the ISTC Agreement and Statute as well as with the Governing Board decisions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the development, maintenance and performance of project plans, schedules, and r administrative tasks related to project management
• Coordinate meetings, prepare agendas, take minutes, and follow up on action items
• Communicate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure timely updates and deliverables
• Track project progress and update relevant documentation and databases
• Support budgeting and procurement processes as needed
• Help identify and resolve issues or bottlenecks in project timelines
• Prepare and distribute internal and external communication (e.g., status reports)
• Assist the Senior Project Manager (SPM)/Project Manager (PM) in monitoring projects and preparing visit reports
• Participate in evaluation and preparation of project quarterly, annual and final reports, as well as financial reports
• Submit grant payments, procurement requests, addendum to the projects, and other project-related documentation
• Assist the SPM / PM in the development, implementation, and closure of projects
• Assist in the organization of seminars, workshops and other relevant events
• Coordinate and participate in travel missions related to project activities
• Performs other duties that may be assigned by the ISTC management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, Project Management, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered. 2-3 years of experience in a similar position or experience in the implementation of projects funded from international donors
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Excellent English written and verbal communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Agile) is a plus
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills
• Fluent English and knowledge of Russian are prerequisites. The knowledge of the Kazakh language is an asset
• Good interpersonal skills
• Previous experience in working in international team/ organization and with project management is an asset

Other requirements

• The PA must be ready to travel inside the CIS and in particular in Central Asia and occasionally in the Caucasus.
• Certification in project management (e.g., PMP, IPMA) is an asset
• The PA should be ready for background checks related to the CIS legislation governing access to research and production facilities with enhanced safety/security requirements.

Place of work: Astana, Kazakhstan

Eligibility: Citizens of Republic of Kazakhstan

To apply, please send your detailed CV, cover letter indicating your professional interest in the job and reference letters (in English), before July 15, 2025.