About the opportunity
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity. In Sri Lanka, WFP is implementing a USD 7.5 million program to assist 87,000 people affected by climate-related disasters, including cyclones, floods, and droughts. The Communications Assistant will play a vital role in this effort by providing administrative and specialized services to support the development and execution of communications campaigns. The role involves monitoring media, preparing content for traditional and social platforms, managing contact databases, and coordinating logistics for events and multimedia projects, all while ensuring consistency with WFP’s corporate standards.
Salary and benefits
- Opportunity to work with a Nobel Peace Prize-winning humanitarian organization.
- Inclusive, diverse, and multicultural working environment.
- Access to professional development programs, including training, coaching, and mentorship.
- Attractive compensation package.
- Exposure to global humanitarian operations and internal mobility opportunities.
Who can apply?
- Completion of secondary school education.
- Five years of related work experience.
- Demonstrated ability to perform routine communication techniques and activities.
- Experience in media and producing written and creative communications materials.
- Fluency in oral and written English.
- Must be a national of Sri Lanka.
- Experience providing ad-hoc guidance to new staff members is desirable.
- Working knowledge of Sinhala or Tamil is desirable.
- Post-secondary certificate in a related functional area is desirable.
Required documents
- CV
- Cover Letter
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by 20 October 2026, 23:59 GMT+05:30 (Colombo time).
How to apply
- Create or update your profile on the WFP online recruiting system (Workday).
- Ensure all sections of the profile, including employment history and academic qualifications, are complete.
- Submit your application exclusively through the online portal.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages.
Additional information
- This is a Service Contract (SC5) position.
- The United Nations does not charge any fees for the application or recruitment process.
- Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
- Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities by contacting global.inclusion@wfp.org.
- Technical issues with the application system can be directed to global.hrerecruitment@wfp.org.
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…
- Candidates with five years of professional experience in communications or media relations who are looking to transition into the humanitarian sector.
- Individuals with strong written and creative skills who are comfortable managing media databases and coordinating logistics for events.
- Professionals who are fluent in English and possess local language skills (Sinhala or Tamil), which are highly valued for effective community engagement in Sri Lanka.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a national-level position restricted to Sri Lankan citizens; international applicants are not eligible.
- The role is a Service Contract (SC), which is a specific type of UN employment arrangement that differs from standard international civil service contracts.
- The deadline is fixed and strictly enforced; late applications will not be considered.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is an excellent opportunity for a communications professional to contribute to high-impact humanitarian work in a country highly vulnerable to climate shocks. It offers a chance to build experience within the UN system, develop specialized skills in disaster-related communications, and work in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
Our take
This position is ideal for experienced communications professionals based in Sri Lanka who are passionate about humanitarian aid and disaster resilience. It is less suitable for those seeking permanent international staff status or those without the required five years of relevant experience.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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