The International Labour Organization (ILO) continues to expand its development programmes across Asia and the Pacific, creating career opportunities for professionals who can provide strong administrative and programme support. In 2026, the ILO is recruiting a Programme Administrative Assistant (G5) in the Philippines to support the implementation of projects that promote decent work, sustainable livelihoods, and inclusive economic development.
This General Service (G5) position is ideal for experienced administrative professionals who enjoy working in an international environment. The successful candidate will help coordinate programme activities, manage financial and administrative processes, and support project teams in delivering development initiatives efficiently.
Whether you’re interested in working with a United Nations specialized agency or advancing your career in international development, this guide covers the salary, eligibility, responsibilities, qualifications, and application process.
Job Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | International Labour Organization (ILO) |
| Position | Programme Administrative Assistant (G5) |
| Grade | General Service (G5) |
| Location | Manila, Philippines |
| Employment Type | Full-Time |
| Contract Type | Fixed-Term or Project-Based (Depends on Vacancy) |
| Career Level | Administrative Support |
| Eligible Applicants | Candidates Meeting the Local Recruitment Criteria and Job Requirements |
| Application Method | Official ILO Careers Portal |
About the International Labour Organization
The International Labour Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations dedicated to promoting decent work, labour rights, social protection, and inclusive employment worldwide. Established in 1919, the ILO works with governments, employers, and workers to improve working conditions and create sustainable employment opportunities.
In the Philippines, the ILO collaborates with government agencies, development partners, employers’ organizations, and workers’ associations on projects covering labour migration, skills development, social protection, fisheries, agriculture, child labour prevention, and sustainable economic growth.
Why This Position Is in Demand
Expanding Development Programmes
ILO continues implementing projects funded by international development partners, increasing demand for experienced administrative staff.
Strong Programme Coordination
Administrative assistants help ensure projects remain organized, compliant with financial rules, and delivered on schedule.
International Work Environment
The position offers exposure to United Nations operations and collaboration with national and international stakeholders.
Career Development
Working with the ILO helps professionals gain valuable experience in international project administration and programme management.
Key Responsibilities
The Programme Administrative Assistant provides operational and administrative support throughout the project lifecycle. Typical duties include:
- Maintaining programme records and administrative documentation.
- Processing financial transactions and payment requests.
- Preparing contracts, correspondence, and project documentation.
- Assisting with budget monitoring and financial reporting.
- Organizing meetings, workshops, and training activities.
- Coordinating travel arrangements for project personnel and consultants.
- Supporting procurement and inventory management.
- Maintaining filing systems and electronic databases.
- Preparing routine reports and presentation materials.
- Responding to administrative enquiries from project partners.
- Ensuring compliance with ILO administrative and financial procedures.
- Providing general administrative support to programme managers and technical staff.
Qualifications & Eligibility
Education
Applicants are generally expected to have:
- Completion of secondary school education.
- Formal training in administration, accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field is considered an advantage.
Professional Experience
Competitive candidates usually have:
- At least five years of progressively responsible administrative or financial experience.
- Experience supporting development projects, government programmes, NGOs, or international organizations is beneficial.
Technical Skills
Successful applicants should demonstrate knowledge of:
- Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Financial and administrative procedures.
- Record management.
- Budget monitoring.
- Procurement support.
- Office management systems.
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is an advantage.
Communication Skills
The ILO values candidates who can demonstrate:
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication.
- Attention to detail.
- Teamwork.
- Professional integrity.
- Ability to work independently.
- Time management.
- Problem-solving skills.
Language Requirements
Applicants should have an excellent command of English. Knowledge of Filipino and other local languages may be beneficial depending on project requirements.
Salary & Contract Information
The Programme Administrative Assistant is classified at the General Service Grade G5 level.
The official vacancy does not publicly publish a fixed salary amount. Compensation is determined according to the ILO’s General Service salary scale applicable to the Philippines, together with applicable allowances and employment conditions. Contract duration varies by project. Recent Manila vacancies have included one-year fixed-term appointments as well as 10-month short-term contracts, depending on project funding.
Benefits of Working with the ILO
Depending on the appointment type, eligible employees may receive:
- Competitive salary based on the ILO salary scale.
- Annual leave and official holidays.
- Health and social security benefits where applicable.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Experience within the United Nations system.
- International networking opportunities.
- Exposure to development and labour policy projects.
- A multicultural and inclusive working environment.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Step 1: Review the Official Vacancy
Carefully read the job announcement to understand the required qualifications, competencies, and application deadline.
Step 2: Prepare Your CV
Your résumé should highlight:
- Administrative experience.
- Financial and accounting support.
- Project coordination.
- Software proficiency.
- Relevant achievements.
- Language skills.
Step 3: Write a Strong Cover Letter
Explain:
- Why you want to work for the ILO.
- Your administrative experience.
- Examples of supporting projects or programmes.
- How your skills match the advertised role.
Step 4: Prepare Supporting Documents
Depending on the vacancy, you may need:
- Updated CV.
- Cover letter.
- Educational certificates.
- Employment records.
- Professional references.
Step 5: Apply Through the Official ILO Careers Portal
Complete the online application before the published deadline and ensure all required documents are uploaded correctly.
Tips for a Successful Application
To improve your chances:
- Tailor your CV to the job description.
- Highlight experience in finance and administration.
- Demonstrate strong organizational abilities.
- Showcase proficiency with Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
- Proofread all application documents carefully.
- Submit your application well before the closing date.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
Sending a Generic Resume
Customize your CV for the specific ILO vacancy.
Ignoring Experience Requirements
Clearly demonstrate progressively responsible administrative experience.
Weak Cover Letter
Use practical examples that show how you have supported programmes or projects.
Missing Supporting Documents
Incomplete applications may not proceed to review.
Applying After the Deadline
ILO’s recruitment system generally closes automatically once the deadline has passed.
Related Career Opportunities
If you’re interested in this position, you may also explore:
- ILO Finance and Administrative Assistant Jobs
- UNDP Programme Associate Careers
- UNICEF Administrative Assistant Opportunities
These roles involve similar responsibilities in programme support, administration, and international development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the ILO Programme Administrative Assistant position?
Applicants must meet the education, experience, and local recruitment requirements specified in the official vacancy announcement. General Service positions are typically recruited locally.
Is previous administrative experience required?
Yes. Recent G5 vacancies generally require at least five years of progressively responsible administrative or financial work experience.
Does the ILO publish the salary?
The vacancy identifies the position as Grade G5, but the exact salary is determined according to the ILO’s local salary scale and is not always published in the job announcement.
What software skills are important?
Candidates should be comfortable using Microsoft Office applications, and experience with ERP or financial management systems is considered an advantage.
Where should I submit my application?
Applications must be submitted through the official ILO online recruitment platform before the application deadline.
Final Thoughts
The ILO Programme Administrative Assistant (G5) Job 2026 in the Philippines is an excellent opportunity for experienced administrative professionals seeking to contribute to meaningful international development initiatives. By supporting programme implementation, financial administration, and project coordination, successful candidates become an essential part of the ILO’s mission to promote decent work and sustainable livelihoods.
Competition for G5 positions is strong, so applicants should prepare a tailored CV, a compelling cover letter, and complete all required documentation before the deadline. Demonstrating strong administrative expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to public service can significantly strengthen your application and improve your chances of joining one of the world’s leading international organizations.
