Information Systems Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Programme, which is part of the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The organization focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of customs operations through the implementation of modern information technology systems. UNCTAD was established in 1964 and operates in multiple countries, aiming to promote the integration of developing countries into the global economy. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development and international trade.

Job Overview:
The Information Systems Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance and support to National Customs Services (NCS) and National Project Teams (NPT) in Portuguese and Spanish-speaking countries in Africa. The incumbent will manage projects that involve feasibility studies, systems analysis, design, development, and implementation of moderately complex systems. This position requires the development of detailed system specifications and user documentation for ASYCUDA systems, ensuring that user requirements are effectively translated into functional applications. The officer will also maintain and enhance existing ASYCUDA user systems, providing ongoing support and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, the role involves developing training materials and conducting training sessions for staff, as well as creating disaster recovery plans to safeguard system integrity. The officer will be expected to contribute to reports and papers on systems-related topics, providing guidance and potentially supervising junior staff and consultants.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Information Systems Officer include managing projects related to the development and implementation of customs information systems, conducting feasibility studies, and performing systems analysis. The officer will develop technical specifications and user documentation for ASYCUDA systems, provide specialized advice to NCSs and NPTs, and maintain existing systems by troubleshooting and resolving complex issues. The role also involves developing proprietary programs that require integration of various systems, ensuring data security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and conducting unit and integrated testing. The officer will assist users in acceptance testing, develop training materials, and train staff on the use of ASYCUDA systems. Additionally, the officer will participate in writing reports on system requirements and information strategies, and may supervise new or junior staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of information technology and information management, particularly in systems analysis and database design related to customs and international trade digitalization. Proficiency in high-level programming languages and experience in structured/object-oriented design, relational systems, and scripting languages are essential. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are required, along with the ability to independently maintain assigned systems and develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, client orientation, and technological awareness, with a commitment to gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in computer science, information systems, mathematics, statistics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in planning, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of computer information systems or related areas is required. Relevant experience in customs and international trade digitalization, system deployment, and support is essential. Experience in organizing and delivering training courses within governmental organizations is desirable, as is experience working in an international environment. Technical ICT programming experience with Java, Linux, and Oracle is also desirable.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in either English or French is required, with a minimum UN Level II proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Desirable languages include Arabic, Spanish, Chinese (Mandarin), and Russian, with a minimum UN Level I proficiency in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for nine months. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to internal candidates and is subject to funding availability. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. An impeccable record for integrity and professional ethical standards is essential, and candidates will be subject to reference checks to verify their qualifications. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.