Junior Professional Officer (JPO)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization established to support countries in their efforts to achieve sustainable development. Founded in 1965, UNDP operates in 166 countries and territories, working with governments to develop strong policies, institutions, and partnerships aimed at achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP's mission is to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development, and it plays a crucial role in promoting effective development cooperation and partnerships among various stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) position is designed for young professionals who aspire to build a career in the multilateral development sector. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to multilateral cooperation and sustainable development while contributing to UNDP's mission. The JPO will work under the supervision of experienced UNDP staff, receiving structured guidance and feedback to gradually increase their responsibilities. The position involves supporting the design and implementation of UNDP programs, engaging in policy analysis, and contributing to knowledge sharing and advocacy efforts related to development effectiveness. The JPO will also participate in various learning and development opportunities, including training courses, masterclasses, and networking events with fellow professionals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the rollout of the 5th Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation (GPEDC) monitoring round, supporting activities related to the monitoring exercise and partner country engagement.
• Compile and organize country-level policy documents on development effectiveness for global sharing.
• Develop country-led stories showcasing impacts related to development effectiveness, including drafting and editing communications materials.
• Produce policy briefs and documents on international development cooperation, including topics like Official Development Assistance and private sector engagement.
• Support knowledge sharing and communications related to GPEDC work, including drafting concept notes, moderating discussions, and updating website content.
• Assist in the preparation of key effectiveness events, including GPEDC High-Level Meetings and the Busan Forum, managing logistics and participant communications.
• Provide operational and substantive support to the Joint Support Team and engage with various stakeholders to enhance development effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of two years of relevant working experience (or four years with a bachelor's degree) in areas related to development cooperation, partnerships, or sustainable development. Experience in producing policy guidance notes and conducting analysis on development effectiveness is required. Familiarity with international organizations, particularly UN agencies, and experience in multi-stakeholder initiatives are advantageous. Skills in project management, including budget preparation and donor reporting, are desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Public Policy, Politics, Economics, Development Studies, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the same fields, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, will be considered.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience for candidates with a master's degree, or four years for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience should include working with large datasets related to development cooperation and partnerships, as well as producing policy guidance and conducting country-level analysis. Experience with international bodies or UN agencies is a plus, as is familiarity with the Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Korean is mandatory. A working knowledge of another UN language, particularly French or Spanish, is desirable. Candidates must also provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or TEPS, with specific minimum scores required.

Additional Notes:
This JPO position is exclusively open to nationals of the Republic of Korea, with applicants required to be no older than 32 years as of December 31, 202

• Male applicants must have completed or be exempt from Korean military service. The application process requires several mandatory attachments, including a motivation letter, proof of residency, degree certificates, and English proficiency test results. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional documentation upon request. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination.