Procurement Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories. Its mission is to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children, saving lives, defending rights, and helping them fulfill their potential. UNICEF operates with a commitment to ensuring that every child has access to essential services and protection, particularly in challenging environments like the State of Palestine.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Assistant position at UNICEF in the State of Palestine is designed to support supply and procurement operations. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Contracts Specialist and will collaborate with various teams and divisions, including the Supply Division and Regional Office. The role requires basic professional technical expertise to meet operational and program objectives. The Procurement Assistant will facilitate the procurement of services and goods, which includes planning, sourcing, contracting, logistics, monitoring, and evaluation. The position aims to enhance UNICEF's engagement with stakeholders and improve the collective impact of humanitarian responses, particularly in emergency situations. The incumbent will also be responsible for implementing streamlined procurement procedures and engaging with requestors to identify long-term service needs based on local market conditions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key functions and responsibilities of the Procurement Assistant include:

• Providing rapid assistance to evolving supply needs, particularly in emergency situations, ensuring value for money.
• Supporting supply planning through coordination with Operations and Program Sections.
• Preparing appropriate procurement documents and providing input on specifications and supply arrangements.
• Assisting in the implementation of the Procurement component of the Country Program.
• Maintaining accurate procurement management systems and documentation, ensuring integrity and accountability.
• Collaborating with the Supply Division in Copenhagen on procurement policies and procedures.
• Supervising the preparation of documentation such as cash and supply requisitions and purchase orders.
• Participating in the preparation of supply status reports for donor reports and program analysis.
• Conducting training for UNICEF staff and counterparts in procurement management and customs clearance. 1
• Monitoring local procurement processes, including issuing tenders and managing contracts. 1
• Evaluating local suppliers based on performance metrics such as pricing and delivery timeliness. 1
• Communicating quality issues related to supplies and service agreements. 1
• Advising the Country Office and Government on procurement policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of five years of working experience in the procurement field. Candidates with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree may substitute three or two years of experience, respectively. Proficiency in SAP and collaborative tools like SharePoint and Teams is essential. Candidates should have experience in local procurement of goods and services, as well as dealing with Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) and complex contracting. The ability to work independently with minimal supervision is crucial, along with experience in emergency duty stations.

Educational Background:
Completion of secondary education is required for this position. Higher educational qualifications such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field may be advantageous and can substitute for some experience requirements.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of five years of experience in procurement, with specific experience in local procurement processes and emergency response situations. Experience with SAP and collaborative tools is also necessary, along with a proven track record in managing complex contracts and supplier relationships.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset. Familiarity with local languages may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is not classified as an elevated risk role, but UNICEF reserves the right to conduct further vetting related to child safeguarding. The organization promotes diversity and inclusion and encourages eligible female candidates to apply. Appointments are subject to medical clearance and compliance with vaccination requirements, including against COVID-1

• Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and government employees must resign from their positions before joining UNICEF. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process.