Operations Associate

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a passionate workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, fostering a culture of inclusivity and growth, and providing an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Operations Associate position focuses on providing comprehensive operational and technical support across various core functional areas, including administration, finance and budget, people and culture, information and communications technology (ICT), and supply and procurement. The role involves implementing and coordinating operational activities, managing data and records, and delivering client-oriented services in alignment with UNICEF's operational policies and strategic objectives. The Operations Associate is expected to work independently with limited supervision, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of results while adapting to challenges that may arise. This position requires a deep understanding of UNICEF's procedures and policies to facilitate efficient service delivery and effective coordination with both internal and external partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Associate will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including providing first and second-level ICT support, managing office systems and workflows, supporting event logistics, processing travel and financial transactions, maintaining ICT platforms, and coordinating procurement and supply chain operations. Specific responsibilities include troubleshooting technical issues, managing ICT incidents, maintaining inventory and documentation, ensuring timely updates to systems and software, supporting audiovisual setups for meetings, conducting data backups, and assisting in emergency preparedness for ICT. In terms of supply and procurement, the Operations Associate will contribute to supply chain planning, conduct market research, support procurement processes, prepare and process purchase orders in SAP, monitor supplier performance, and ensure compliance with UNICEF standards. The role also involves liaising with various stakeholders to coordinate procurement services and ensure ethical practices in all activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, supplemented with formal training in Computer Science, Information Systems, Telecommunications, or Engineering. An ITIL Foundation Certificate or equivalent customer support certification is considered an asset. Additionally, a minimum of six years of practical work experience in information technology is required, with a focus on systematic troubleshooting and problem-solving. Experience in providing assistance on IT products and services, as well as practical knowledge of various computer platforms and applications, is essential. Familiarity with supply chain management or a commercial context is advantageous, along with an understanding of development and humanitarian work.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of secondary education, along with formal training in relevant fields such as Computer Science, Information Systems, Telecommunications, or Engineering. Additional certifications, such as the ITIL Foundation Certificate, are beneficial and enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of relevant work experience in information technology, emphasizing systematic troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. Candidates should have a proven track record of providing technical and business customer support and services, as well as practical experience with various computer platforms and applications. Experience in supply chain management or a commercial context is a plus, and familiarity with development and humanitarian work is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English and either Albanian or Serbian is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve working in a dynamic environment where staff can be called upon to support humanitarian responses. UNICEF promotes an inclusive workforce and encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including persons with disabilities. The organization provides a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF does not charge any processing fees during the recruitment process and has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct. Background checks will be conducted for selected candidates, and medical clearance may be required. Additionally, candidates may need to meet vaccination requirements as part of the hiring process.