Helvetas is an organization specialized in development cooperation and humanitarian response, anchored in Switzerland, and operating in over 35 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Our vision is a just world in which all people determine the course of their lives in dignity and security, using environmental resources in a sustainable manner.
For our Skills, Jobs and Income team based in Zurich and Bern, we are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Advisor Vocational Skills Development to join us as of November 1, 2026, or upon agreement, and contribute to strengthening Helvetas’ thematic positioning and advisory portfolio.
Skills, Jobs and Income (SJI) is one of Helvetas' three thematic working areas. The team consists of around 12 highly motivated and qualified experts focusing on Private Sector Development, Vocational Skills Development and Basic Education.
- Provide technical and strategic advice and manage advisory assignments for Helvetas projects, country programmes and external clients, including planning new projects or phases, as well as conducting reviews and evaluations.
- Lead or provide substantial inputs to acquisition processes, including project design and proposal writing, with a particular focus on acquiring external advisory service mandates.
- Maintain and develop relationships with clients and partners, communicating clearly and consistently to support collaboration and acquisition.
- Contribute to the further development of Helvetas' approaches, knowledge products and positioning in VSD and youth employment.
- Strengthen our engagement with the Swiss VSD community of practice and relevant Swiss and international networks.
- Develop relationships with Swiss private-sector companies and professional associations and explore opportunities to involve their expertise and resources in VSD initiatives.
- Master's degree in education, economics, business administration, international development or another field relevant to the position, or a BSc degree with experience and additional relevant education.
- At least 5 years of relevant experience in international development cooperation, including at least 3 years of field-based experience in the Global South/East.
- Experience across several countries and short-term consultancy assignments is highly valued. Particularly strong candidates with around 10-15 years of relevant experience may be considered at Senior Advisor level.
- Proven expertise in dual VET, with experience in private sector engagement in VSD, youth employment, Market Systems Development and VET reform highly valued.
- Experience in non-formal VSD and/or skills development in humanitarian and fragile contexts is highly valued. Additional expertise in green skills, impact-linked finance or alternative education is an advantage.
- Good networks within the Swiss private sector and/or professional associations, with the ability to develop partnerships and mobilise private-sector actors for VSD.
- Strong project management and advisory skills, with proven experience in acquisition, particularly of advisory service mandates, proposal development and client relations.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills in multicultural environments and effective use of digital and AI tools.
- Excellent spoken and written German and English. French and other additional languages are an advantage.
- Readiness to travel 4-5 times a year, including to fragile contexts.
At Helvetas, you will be part of a purpose-driven organization where your work creates meaningful global impact. We foster a caring and collaborative culture built on trust, flexibility, and accountability. You will grow in a professional environment that values integrity, empathy, and continuous learning. We care. We commit.
We offer you an interesting challenge in a motivated team with attractive working conditions. You can expect a modern workplace in a multicultural setting in the centre of Bern/Zurich.
Please submit your complete application (motivation letter, CV, and certifications) by September 27th , 2026 via our online portal. For any questions related to this position please contact Rob Van Hout, Senior Advisor Private Sector Development, +41 31 385 10 32, or visit our website www.helvetas.org.
Kindly be aware that the contract will be based on Swiss terms. Due to Swiss work permit restrictions, only applications from Swiss nationals, EU citizens as well as current work-permit holders for Switzerland can be considered.
To learn more about Helvetas and our mission & vision, visit our website http://www.helvetas.org
Connect with us on LinkedIn: Helvetas LinkedIn Page and Follow us on Instagram @Helvetas_ch
