ICT Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and combating climate change. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in 170 countries, working with a diverse network of experts and partners to develop integrated solutions that benefit both people and the planet. In Pakistan, UNDP collaborates with the government, civil society, and local partners to address persistent development challenges, aligning its efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2023-2027). The organization focuses on four key outcome areas: governance, sustainable economic transformation, climate resilience, and gender equality. UNDP's mission is to ensure that all Pakistani citizens have access to education, health, and economic opportunities, while promoting a climate-resilient future and empowering women and girls to exercise their rights and trust in improved governance. More information can be found at undp.org or by following @UNDP.

Job Overview:
The ICT Associate plays a vital role in the Country Office (CO) of UNDP, particularly as the reliance on digital technology grows across all operations, projects, and program deliveries. This position is responsible for driving the digital transformation efforts within the CO, enabling the effective use of technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency and improve service delivery to UNDP partners, stakeholders, and beneficiaries. The ICT Associate will provide daily technical support to users of information management tools and technology infrastructure, ensuring a client-oriented approach. Collaboration with various teams, including Programme, Operations, and project teams, as well as UNDP HQ staff, is essential for resolving complex ICT-related issues. The role requires the implementation of ICT strategies, compliance with corporate standards, and participation in the development of Standard Operating Procedures for ICT services. The ICT Associate will also conduct market research to support the introduction of new technologies and provide procurement assistance for ICT equipment, ensuring that the CO's technology environment is up-to-date and effective.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ICT Associate's duties and responsibilities include:

• Implementing ICT strategies and introducing new technologies to enhance operational efficiency.
• Ensuring compliance with corporate information management and technology standards, guidelines, and procedures.
• Participating in the development and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures for ICT services.
• Conducting market research and analysis to support the introduction of new technology for system updates and improvements.
• Advising on and assisting in the procurement of new ICT equipment, including reviewing quotations and bids.
• Maintaining business continuity and disaster recovery processes and procedures.
• Providing support for ERP functionality to improve business results and client services.
• Supporting key events with ICT needs.
• Ensuring effective functioning of CO hardware and software packages, including installation, operation, and maintenance. 1
• Assisting in the automation and digitalization of CO Operations and Programmes. 1
• Monitoring network connections and ensuring a stable network environment. 1
• Responding to user needs regarding network access and troubleshooting network problems. 1
• Maintaining an inventory of supplies and spare parts in cooperation with Administration and Procurement Teams. 1
• Facilitating knowledge building and sharing within the CO by promoting optimal content management systems and organizing training for staff on ICT issues. 1
• Performing other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the ICT Associate position include:

• Secondary education (12th grade) is required, with formal training in IT systems, business software, and/or web-based applications.
• Certifications in CCNA, MSCA, MSCE, and/or MCP are considered assets.
• A university degree (bachelor's degree) in Information Technology, Information Management, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or a related field is preferred but not mandatory.
• Strong understanding of ICT management systems and strategies, as well as experience in providing technical support for hardware/software or Cloud ERP environments.
• Knowledge of database applications and web-based management systems is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the ICT Associate position includes:

• A minimum of secondary education (12th grade) with formal training in IT systems, business software, and/or web-based applications.
• Certifications such as CCNA, MSCA, MSCE, and/or MCP are advantageous.
• A bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Information Management, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or a related field will be given due consideration, although it is not a strict requirement.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the ICT Associate position includes:

• A minimum of 6 years of relevant working experience in network administration and operations, web design, and providing technical support for hardware/software or Cloud ERP environments, if the candidate has secondary education.
• A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience is required if the candidate holds a bachelor's degree.
• Experience working with user-centered designs and conducting user research and testing is mandatory.
• Familiarity with database management systems such as MSSQL, MySQL, and Oracle is desired.
• Previous experience in troubleshooting hardware and software package installation and maintenance is preferred.
• Experience working with development sector organizations, partners, specialized agencies, and the UN sector is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Urdu is required for the ICT Associate position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English and Urdu are mandatory for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
Additional notes regarding the ICT Associate position include:

• The position is a fixed-term appointment, and for all new UNDP fixed-term appointments, continuation beyond the initial 12 months is contingent upon successful completion of a probationary period.
• UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level.
• The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to report any scams or fraudulent activities.
• UNDP values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel can thrive and benefit from career opportunities.