Senior Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, with a mission to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. The organization works to provide life-saving assistance, safeguard fundamental human rights, and help find durable solutions for those displaced by conflict and persecution. UNHCR employs thousands of staff members worldwide, including a diverse workforce committed to humanitarian principles and the protection of vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Assistant position is a critical role within the UNHCR, primarily focused on providing administrative support and assistance in the management of programs aimed at addressing the needs of persons of concern. The incumbent will work under the guidance of more senior program staff and will be responsible for ensuring that program activities are implemented effectively and in compliance with UNHCR's operational guidelines. This role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including partners and other units within the organization, to collect information, monitor program activities, and fulfill administrative requirements. The Senior Programme Assistant is expected to contribute to the development and implementation of monitoring plans, assist in the selection of partners, and ensure compliance with established policies and procedures. The position emphasizes the importance of teamwork and the multi-functional team approach, ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are involved in the program management cycle. The incumbent will also be responsible for maintaining records of program implementation and expenditures, thereby supporting evidence-based decision-making and programmatic analysis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Assistant include providing administrative assistance and support in routine services and activities within the program. This includes organizing and documenting the selection of partners, ensuring compliance with partnership agreements, and monitoring their implementation. The incumbent will support the development of monitoring plans for activities, contribute to the review and analysis of operations plans and reports, and ensure quality assurance in compliance with established policies. Additionally, the Senior Programme Assistant will utilize UNHCR's ERP system for planning, budgeting, implementation, and reporting, generating data for programmatic decisions. The role also involves identifying and managing risks, contributing to the improvement of programming tools and processes, and performing other related duties as required. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and effective communication with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Programme Assistant position must possess a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or 1 year of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include demonstrated experience in program management, knowledge of results-based management, and proficiency in computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office with advanced Excel capabilities. Desirable qualifications include completion of UNHCR Learning Programs or specific training relevant to the position, as well as experience in program management training and capacity-building activities. The role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to coordinate logistics, compile reports, and analyze qualitative and quantitative information effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Senior Programme Assistant position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Relations, Social Sciences, or related fields. While specific certifications are not mandated, completion of relevant training programs, particularly those offered by UNHCR, is considered advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of program management principles and partnership management.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 2 years of relevant experience in program management or operational support, preferably within the UN system or international NGOs. Experience in coordinating logistics, compiling reports, and supporting program implementation is essential. Candidates should also have a demonstrated ability to analyze information and manage multiple priorities in a multicultural environment, showcasing their capacity to work independently and collaboratively with diverse teams.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, as these are the primary languages used in the duty station. Candidates should possess a working knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. Additionally, knowledge of French and/or Dutch is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment. The expected overall ability in the required languages should be at least at the B2 level, indicating a competent command of the language for professional purposes.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered under a fixed-term contract for an initial period of 1 year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. Candidates must be nationals of Panama or non-Panamanian residents in the country with a valid work and residency permit. The United Nations is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment, and reasonable accommodations will be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request. The role is classified at the GS5 level, and a competitive compensation and benefits package is offered, including information on salaries and allowances available on the International Civil Service Commission web portal. Candidates may be required to undergo a written test as part of the selection process.