Program Assistant, South America

About the role

Smile Train, a global cleft-care organization, is looking for a Program Assistant for South America based in Bogotá, Colombia. The role runs the processes behind its seven-country portfolio, from program data and reporting to procurement and logistics, and acts as the first point of contact for the partner network. It suits an experienced operations professional who works with a high degree of autonomy and limited day-to-day supervision.

The position reports to the Sr. Program Manager, South America. Regular travel within South America is required for partner site visits, trainings and events, with occasional international travel possible.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain and analyze program data, flagging trends, risks and anomalies; produce recurring and ad hoc reports for internal decisions and donors; lead data audits and follow up with partners to close gaps.
• Support Program Managers on daily operations and regional initiatives, and act as first point of contact for partner and patient inquiries, escalating complex ones with a recommended course of action.
• Onboard and train partners in program systems and tools, troubleshoot system issues, document and share operational processes and best practices.
• Manage cost comparisons, purchase orders, vendor engagement and delivery tracking; maintain internal documents and shared resources.
• Prepare presentations, meeting summaries and briefing materials for internal and external audiences.
• Coordinate events, trainings, site visits and partner meetings, including travel, accommodation and venues.
• When requested, collect and organize photos, videos and stories for the communications and education teams.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, international relations, public health, social sciences, engineering or a related field; a postgraduate specialization or MBA is a plus.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience, including autonomous ownership of processes end to end.
• Hands-on experience coordinating initiatives, supporting program implementation, managing vendors or budgets, and engaging stakeholders across multiple countries or cultures.
• Fluent English and spoken and written Spanish.
• Global health program experience, international nonprofit or multi-country operation experience, project management certification (e.g. CAPM, PMP), and advanced Excel and data or CRM platform skills are considered a plus.

What we offer

• Compensation of USD 17,000 to 19,000 per year.
• Stipend for medical expenses, paid holidays, sick time and paid parental leave.
• Annual professional development stipend and remote work model.
• Travel opportunities with colleagues and programs.

To apply, complete the online application with a CV and a cover letter explaining why you are a good fit.