Procurement Support Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNESCO, which stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Established in 1945, UNESCO aims to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The organization has a global presence, operating in over 190 countries with a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO's mission is to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through its various programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Support Officer will play a crucial role in ensuring that procurement activities within the UNESCO Regional Office for UN Coordination for Latin America and the Caribbean are conducted in compliance with the organization's regulations and international standards. The incumbent will provide technical support in procurement processes, ensuring fairness, integrity, and transparency. This position requires a proactive approach to assist in the preparation of procurement documents, manage contracts, and maintain procurement files. The officer will also contribute to the development of procurement strategies and support logistical services, ensuring that all procurement activities align with the operational strategies of the office. The role emphasizes the importance of knowledge sharing and capacity building within the organization, as the officer will be responsible for organizing training sessions for staff and vendors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Procurement Support Officer include: 1) Supporting the implementation of operational strategies by ensuring compliance with UN/UNESCO procurement rules and regulations, assisting in the preparation of RFQs, ITBs, or RFPs, and participating in the evaluation and contracting process. 2) Supporting procurement processes by providing inputs for procurement plans, preparing purchase orders and contracts, maintaining procurement files, and monitoring adherence to contractual agreements. 3) Contributing to the implementation of sourcing strategies by updating supplier rosters and assisting in supplier research. 4) Ensuring the provision of logistical services by preparing POs, arranging shipments, and coordinating conference facilities. 5) Supporting knowledge building by providing guidance in procurement matters and organizing training sessions for staff and vendors. The incumbent may also perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Procurement Support Officer position include a Bachelor's degree in relevant areas of Procurement. Additionally, candidates must have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in administration, procurement, or supply chain management at either the national or international level. Proficiency in using office software packages such as MS Word and Excel, as well as experience with web-based management systems or automated procurement systems, is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as Procurement, Finance, Business, or Public Administration. While a degree in Finance or Business is preferred, it is not mandatory. Candidates holding a CIPS level 2 certification will have a distinct advantage, and if not obtained at the time of application, it should be acquired within one year of recruitment.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in administration, procurement, or supply chain management. Experience in procurement and contracting within a UN agency or similar international organizations is highly advantageous. Candidates should also have experience in maintaining supplier/vendor rosters, conducting supplier market research, and managing contracts. Familiarity with ERP systems, particularly SAP, is considered an asset, as is experience in providing procurement-related training or participating in knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Spanish, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is initially set for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. Only candidates with Chilean nationality or permission to work in Chile will be considered for this role. The position is full-time and requires in-person attendance. Benefits include annual leave accrued at a rate of 2½ days for each completed month of service, sick leave entitlements, and maternity leave provisions. However, SC contract holders are not eligible for participation in UNESCO’s Medical Benefits Fund or UN Joint Staff Pension Fund. The selection process will involve an online application, and candidates may be assessed through tests, interviews, and reference checks.