About the opportunity
The World Food Programme (WFP) in Lao PDR is seeking a Programme Associate for Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) to support the planning, implementation, coordination, monitoring, and reporting of emergency activities. The role focuses on strengthening national disaster preparedness, response readiness, cash-based transfer programmes, and capacity-building efforts to improve assistance delivery and resilience for disaster-affected communities in Lao PDR, which is highly vulnerable to climate-related shocks.
Salary and benefits
- Attractive compensation package.
- Inclusive, diverse, and multicultural working environment.
- Investment in personal and professional development through training, accreditation, coaching, mentorship, and internal mobility opportunities.
Who can apply?
- University degree in Emergency Preparedness and Response, Disaster Management, Social Sciences, or other fields relevant to international development assistance, or related work experience and/or training/courses.
- Six years of progressively responsible work experience with the UN, NGOs, or CSOs in rural development, disaster-risk management, or related development fields.
- Fluency in both oral and written communication in English and Lao.
- Full knowledge of computer applications such as MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, etc.); knowledge of Canva or other graphic design programs is preferred.
- Excellent communication, analytical, facilitation, and negotiation skills.
- Ability to work in a team and establish effective working relations with persons of different cultural backgrounds.
Required documents
- CV
- Cover Letter
When to apply
- Deadline for applications: 3 September 2026, 23:59 GMT+07:00 Indochina Time (Vientiane).
How to apply
- Ensure your Workday profile is accurate and complete, including employment history, academic qualifications, language skills, and UN grade if applicable.
- Submit your application exclusively through the WFP online recruiting system.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Professionals with six years of experience in disaster-risk management, rural development, or humanitarian assistance within the UN or NGO sectors.
- Candidates who possess strong analytical and negotiation skills, coupled with the ability to facilitate multi-stakeholder projects.
- Individuals fluent in both English and Lao who are comfortable working in diverse, multicultural team environments.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is an on-site contract role in Vientiane, requiring a commitment to local humanitarian efforts in a climate-vulnerable region.
- The role involves significant coordination and reporting, so candidates should be highly proficient in MS Office and comfortable with data-driven tasks.
- Applicants should verify the specific terms of the SC6 service contract regarding benefits and duration, as these can differ from standard staff appointments.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is a strategic move for someone looking to deepen their expertise in emergency preparedness and resilience-building. It offers a chance to work directly on national-level disaster response systems, providing valuable experience for those aiming to advance into senior policy or coordination roles in international development.
Our take
This role is highly recommended for experienced development professionals with a background in disaster management. Those who lack experience in humanitarian programming or who are not fluent in both English and Lao may find this role challenging.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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