Vacancy Announcement: Programme officer

CityNet is the largest association of urban stakeholders committed to sustainable development in the Asia Pacific region. Established in 1987 with the support of UNESCAP, UNDP and UN-Habitat, the Network of cities has grown to include over 150 municipalities, NGOs, private companies, and research centers. We connect actors, exchange knowledge and build commitment to more sustainable and resilient cities. Through capacity building, city-to-city cooperation and tangible projects, we help our members respond to Climate Change, Disaster, and Sustainable Development Goals.

Application Timeline (refer to below for more details)

• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until 15 August 2025.
  • Early applications are highly encouraged to ensure consideration.

Tasks and responsibilites

• Draft, edit, and publish original content including reports, news articles, press releases, social media posts, and promotional materials. Maintain and update communication assets such as brochures, newsletters, infographics, and videos.
• Manage CityNet’s official website. Pursue and oversee the ongoing maintenance and pursue new enhancements in collaboration with the external web development partner, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
• Support or co-lead the design, event coordination, communications, and the delivery of CityNet programmes and events, including workshops, joint projects, and study visits.
• Contribute to conceptualising new initiatives or partnerships aligned with member needs and regional trends.
• Prepare internal and external documents in English. Translate documents when necessary.

Required qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Economics, Development Studies, Sociology, Asian Studies, Public Administration, Urban Studies, Tourism Management, or any other relevant field.
• A minimum of one year’s professional experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Facilitating partnerships, knowledge exchange, or collaborative projects between cities;
  • Supporting municipalities in the delivery of public services;
  • Organising international workshops, city forums, or conferences, including content planning and logistical coordination;
  • Drafting reports and guidelines

• Eligible work experience includes roles within international organisations, local government, public institutions, embassies, universities, or the private sector, particularly those with an international focus.

• Fluency in English, both spoken and written.
• Open to applicants of all nationalities.
• No restrictions on international travel.
• Candidates with experience working in or alongside local authorities will be given preference.

core competencies

• Exceptional communication and organisational skills, with fluency in English, and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders across the Asia-Pacific region.
  • A willingness to learn Korean is desirable.
• Ability to build and sustain partnerships with government agencies, local authorities, international organisations, and private sector partners.
• Strong proficiency in computer applications, including core Microsoft Office programmes, and virtual meeting platforms.
  • Proficiency in design software (Adobe photoshop, Indesign, etc) is an asset.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• A positive, can-do attitude with a strong willingness to learn, adapt and take initiative. Demonstrates professional integrity and sound judgement when working across cultures and within dynamic environments.

Preferred qualifications, capabilities, and skills

• Prior experience working on Asia-Pacific regional affairs, with a sound understanding of the region’s socio-economic and political landscape.
• Demonstrated involvement in areas related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in climate change, urban infrastructure, and disaster risk reduction and management.
• Experience in project implementation with governmental or international organisations (e.g. United Nations, KOICA, World Bank).
• Proficiency in an Asian language (such as Chinese, Japanese, Bahasa Indonesia or Malaysia, Tagalog, or other regional languages) is considered an asset.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Location: CityNet Secretariat, 10th Floor, Seoul Global Center, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
• Contract Duration: One-year fixed-term contract, inclusive of a three-month probationary period
  • Please note: Contract extension is subject to annual performance evaluation and organisational requirements.
• Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 09:30–18:00 (with a one-hour lunch break)
• Working Language: English (and Korean)
• Annual Salary (KRW): Determined in accordance with the organisation’s internal salary scale, based on the candidate’s qualifications and relevant experience
  • Note: The monthly salary will be paid via bank transfer to a Korean bank account on the 25th of each month, after deductions for tax and the employee’s contribution to national pensions and insurance schemes, as required by Korean law.

required documents

(No designated format is required for submission)

Mandatory

• CV and Cover Letter – Must be in English and include a recent photograph, date of birth, and a mobile number that can be reliably reached.
• Degree Certificate or Diploma – Accepted in English or Korean.
• Certificate(s) of Employment or Employment History – Accepted in English or Korean.
• For non-Korean nationals – A copy of the Alien Registration Card (visa), including duration of stay, issued by the Korean government.

Optional

• Portfolio – May include samples such as concept notes, reports, articles, or other relevant documents (in English or Korean).
• Language Proficiency Certificate
• Other Certificates or Licences

recruitment procedures

• Document Submission Deadline
  • Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until 15 August 2025.
  • Early applications are highly encouraged to ensure consideration.
• Interview
  • Conducted in English
  • Important: Shortlisted candidates must be available by phone to receive interview notifications. Candidates must be able to attend the interview at the designated time and venue (CityNet Secretariat office).
• Starting Date
  • Successful candidates will be required to sign the employment contract and begin work in early September 2025.

Note: Only applicants who successfully pass the document screening and interview stages will proceed to final selection. The recruitment timeline is subject to change based on organisational needs.

HOW TO APPLY

• Submit all application materials via email to: citynet.recruitment@gmail.com
• Email subject line must begin with: ‘Program Officer Application’
• For enquiries, please contact:
  ✉️ citynet.recruitment@gmail.com
  ☎️ +82 2 723 0628