Senior IT Assistant

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

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons, ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing more than 18,000 staff members worldwide. The organization focuses on providing protection, assistance, and solutions for refugees, internally displaced persons, and stateless individuals, working in partnership with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to address the challenges faced by these vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Senior IT Assistant position is crucial for the effective functioning of the IT infrastructure within the UNHCR office in Herat. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of a Senior Officer and the technical supervision of an IT Officer, playing a vital role in overseeing the daily operations of the IT department. This includes managing the telecom operators and ensuring that the IT services meet the needs of the users. The Senior IT Assistant will be responsible for maintaining and monitoring the local area network (LAN), network servers, and various ICT equipment, ensuring that all systems are operational and efficient. The role also involves training UNHCR staff on various IT systems and ensuring that all ICT-related issues are resolved promptly. The incumbent will be expected to contribute to the overall goals of the organization by ensuring that the IT infrastructure supports the mission of UNHCR effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior IT Assistant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: assisting in the implementation of IT standards that meet user needs; monitoring and maintaining LAN, network servers, routers, printers, and other ICT equipment; conducting routine maintenance and installation of new ICT equipment; ensuring quick recovery from ICT problems and performing regular system backups; assisting with software installations and basic repairs of hardware; training staff on email systems and communication devices; managing user accounts on the network; maintaining an inventory of ICT equipment; drafting technical documentation and correspondence related to ICT; certifying invoices and delivery notes; evaluating needs for upgrading ICT equipment; selecting efficient communication methods; carrying out administrative duties; resolving incidents and escalating unresolved issues; and supporting risk management in the area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates 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 higher. Essential qualifications include relevant experience in the ICT field, with desirable hands-on experience in wireless and VoIP systems, electricity, and generators. Candidates should also have strong IT and computer literacy skills, as these are critical for the role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum, with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent being advantageous. Candidates should have a background in Information Technology or Telecommunications, as these fields are directly relevant to the responsibilities of the Senior IT Assistant.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 2 years of relevant experience in the ICT field for those with a High School Diploma, or 1 year of relevant experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. This experience should include practical knowledge of IT systems and support, as well as familiarity with the operational context of UNHCR.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For General Service jobs, proficiency in English and/or the UN working language is required. Local language proficiency is also beneficial and may enhance communication within the local context.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the General Service category at the GS5 grade level. It is a regular assignment with a target start date of November 24, 202

• The position is categorized under a hardship level E, indicating significant challenges in the living and working conditions. The role is non-family, meaning that staff members are not permitted to bring family members to the duty station. Additionally, candidates should be prepared for a written test as part of the selection process, with a passing mark of 60%. The position does not require functional clearance.