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 disasters, including cyclones, floods, and droughts. This initiative combines cash transfers for irrigation rehabilitation, anticipatory support for flood-prone households, and strengthened disaster preparedness. The Programme Assistant (Field) will be stationed in Kandy, reporting to the Programme Associate (Field Coordination), and will play a critical role in maintaining collaboration with government counterparts, monitoring project implementation, and ensuring effective communication flow with partners and community leaders.
Salary and benefits
- Attractive compensation package
- Inclusive, diverse, and multicultural working environment
- Opportunities for personal and professional development through training, accreditation, coaching, and mentorship
- Access to internal mobility opportunities within WFP's global network
Who can apply?
- Completion of secondary school education
- Five years of progressively responsible experience, with at least one year at a lower grade level
- Fluency in both oral and written communication in the UN language in use at the duty station and the duty station’s language
- Experience facilitating communication with technical teams (e.g., social protection, food security, nutrition, VAM)
- Experience contributing to programme implementation, policy discussions, and field coordination
- Sri Lankan nationals only
Required documents
- CV
- Cover Letter
When to apply
- Deadline: 28 August 2026, 23:59 GMT+05:30 (India Standard Time, Colombo)
How to apply
- Create or update your profile on the WFP online recruiting system (Workday)
- Ensure all sections of the profile are complete, including employment history, academic qualifications, and language skills
- Submit the application exclusively through the online portal
Additional information
- The position is a Service Contract (SC) role.
- WFP does not charge any fees for the application or recruitment process.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks.
- Reasonable accommodation is available for individuals with disabilities by contacting global.inclusion@wfp.org.
- Technical issues with the application can be reported 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…
- Sri Lankan nationals with five years of experience in programme implementation or field coordination.
- Candidates with experience facilitating communication between technical teams and community leaders.
- Individuals with a strong grasp of humanitarian or resilience project monitoring.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is on-site in Kandy, Sri Lanka, requiring local presence.
- The position requires significant coordination with government counterparts and community stakeholders.
- Applicants should be prepared for the administrative and monitoring demands of a field-based service contract.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is a great goal for those looking to build a career in humanitarian field coordination. It provides hands-on experience in managing resilience projects and working directly with affected communities.
Our take
Field-oriented professionals in Sri Lanka should apply. It is less suitable for those without experience in project monitoring or those seeking office-based, non-field roles.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
