Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is dedicated to promoting sustainable development of human settlements and policies that ensure adequate housing for all. Established to support governments and local authorities in implementing the Habitat Agenda and the 2030 Agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, UN-Habitat focuses on transforming urban areas into safer, more inclusive, and resilient environments. The organization operates globally, with a significant presence in Brazil, where it collaborates with various levels of government to develop effective urban policies. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) is located in Rio de Janeiro, emphasizing local engagement and partnerships, particularly in vulnerable communities such as favelas. UN-Habitat has a longstanding relationship with the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro, working together on various projects aimed at improving urban living conditions.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of UN-Habitat projects in Brazil, specifically in collaboration with the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro. Reporting directly to the Head of the Brazil Office, the Programme Assistant will be responsible for providing administrative and logistical support for project activities, which include planning and executing meetings, missions, and events. The role requires a proactive approach to assist in the preparation and organization of technical reports and documentation for both internal and external stakeholders. The Programme Assistant will also facilitate communication among various partners involved in the projects, ensuring that all activities are well-coordinated and documented. This position is essential for maintaining updated records and filing systems related to project activities, which is vital for effective monitoring and evaluation of project outcomes. The Programme Assistant will also be required to complete necessary training, including the BSAFE security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security course, to ensure compliance with UN security protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: 1) Providing comprehensive administrative and logistical support for the planning, execution, and follow-up of project activities, ensuring that all events and meetings are well-organized. 2) Assisting in the preparation, organization, and consolidation of technical reports, presentations, and documentation for both internal use and for external partners, ensuring clarity and accuracy in all communications. 3) Supporting coordination and communication among stakeholders, including counterparts involved in the projects, to foster collaboration and ensure alignment of objectives. 4) Maintaining updated records and filing systems related to project activities, ensuring timely documentation of results achieved and facilitating easy access to information for all team members. 5) Performing other related duties as required to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the project, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to take on additional tasks as needed. 6) Completing all required training and courses as indicated by the supervisor, particularly focusing on security protocols and project management best practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Geography, Sociology, Law, Economics, Social Work, Social Sciences, or related fields. Alternatively, candidates with an additional three years of relevant experience beyond the educational requirement will also be considered. The position requires a minimum of four years of experience in the aforementioned fields, with a preference for candidates who have experience in social work and field support, particularly in public sector roles and vulnerable areas. Previous experience working with the United Nations is highly desirable, as it demonstrates familiarity with the organization's processes and standards. Candidates should also possess strong computer skills, particularly in Windows and Office packages, and have a good understanding of online event and conference tools.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as International Relations, Geography, Sociology, Law, Economics, Social Work, or Social Sciences is required for this position. Candidates with additional relevant experience may substitute for formal education. This educational background is essential to ensure that the Programme Assistant has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively support UN-Habitat's mission and projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant work experience in fields related to urban development, social work, or public administration. Candidates should have experience in supporting fieldwork, particularly in vulnerable areas, which is crucial for understanding the challenges faced by urban communities. Experience working with the United Nations or similar international organizations is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the operational and procedural standards expected in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and partners. Additionally, working knowledge of English is desirable, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in Spanish is also beneficial, given that it is the working language of the Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and is expected to last for three months, with the possibility of renewal depending on performance and funding availability. The remuneration for this position is set at SB-3/3, amounting to BRL 6,360.64 (net amount). It is important to note that this appointment is on a local basis, and only nationals from Brazil or external candidates holding a permanent visa in Brazil are eligible to apply. The extension of the contract is not automatic and is subject to the availability of funds and performance evaluations. All applications must be submitted in English and include a cover memo, educational background, professional experience, and other relevant information as specified in the application guidelines. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and applicants are advised to be cautious of any fraudulent claims regarding recruitment.