UN Procurement Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Procurement Unit of the Mission Support Component of the Office of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen (OSESGY). The organization is dedicated to supporting peace efforts in Yemen and operates with a mission to facilitate dialogue and promote stability in the region. The UN has a long-standing commitment to humanitarian assistance and development in Yemen, working with various stakeholders to address the ongoing challenges faced by the country. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to gender equality and inclusivity in its operations.

Job Overview:
The UN Procurement Assistant will play a crucial role in the Procurement Unit, responsible for managing purchasing requests and ensuring that procurement processes are efficient and compliant with UN regulations. The incumbent will assist requisitioners in preparing the scope of work and specifications for goods and services, aiming to achieve cost savings while maintaining quality. The role involves identifying potential suppliers, producing tender documents, and negotiating terms and conditions of orders. The Procurement Assistant will also resolve issues related to delivered goods and maintain internal databases and files, ensuring that all contractual agreements are tracked and managed effectively. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Procurement Assistant include: reviewing, recording, and prioritizing purchasing requests; assisting requisitioners in preparing specifications; proposing product substitutions for cost savings; determining funding sources; identifying and recommending procurement sources; producing tender documents such as Invitations to Bids and Requests for Proposals; preparing abstracts of offers and compiling data from quotations; negotiating terms and conditions of orders; finalizing purchase orders and contracts; resolving issues related to delivered goods; maintaining internal databases and files; researching and presenting information on suppliers; drafting correspondence; supervising junior staff; and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess extensive knowledge of purchasing and accounting techniques, as well as a thorough understanding of internal procurement policies and procedures. The ability to apply good judgment in various contexts is essential, along with strong organizational skills and the capacity to manage multiple priorities effectively. The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender equality in the workplace.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Additionally, a certificate of completion of CIPS Procurement at level 4 is mandatory, indicating a foundational understanding of procurement principles and practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, administrative services, or a related area. Relevant experience in supply chain and contract management is essential, along with familiarity with the Financial Regulations and Rules of the United Nations or similar international organizations. Experience in data analytics and working with ERP systems such as SAP (UMOJA) is also required.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is required, with both languages being the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, subject to the availability of the post or funds. This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. Local recruits are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The UN emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in its hiring practices, encouraging female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to maintaining a non-smoking environment.