Assistant Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Social Innovation Special Projects Team (SISPT) of the Policy and Best Practices Service (PBPS) in the Division of Policy, Evaluation and Training (DPET) of the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) at the United Nations. The UN is dedicated to promoting peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations, and the SISPT focuses on innovative approaches to social challenges. The organization aims to enhance the effectiveness of peace operations through strategic communication and engagement with various stakeholders. The UN operates globally, with a mission to foster international collaboration and uphold human rights, and has a diverse workforce committed to these principles.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Communications Officer (ACO) plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of communication strategies that aim to raise awareness and drive engagement regarding the UN's initiatives. The ACO will assist in various tasks including monitoring and analyzing media, developing content for digital platforms, and creating compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences. This position requires a proactive approach to outreach and advocacy, ensuring that the UN's impact is effectively communicated. The ACO will also be involved in data collection and analysis to inform decision-making and enhance communication efforts. The role demands a blend of creativity and analytical skills to produce high-quality content and engage with stakeholders effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ACO will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: assisting in the implementation of communication strategies to raise awareness and drive engagement; monitoring and analyzing traditional and digital media; developing talking points, press releases, and media lines; drafting and producing digital content such as videos, infographics, and reports; creating engaging content tailored for social media; disseminating internal communications; developing and implementing impactful communication campaigns; coordinating strategic partnerships; delivering outreach and advocacy strategies; collecting and analyzing data to identify trends; executing research methodologies to monitor information integrity; maintaining expertise in emerging communication technologies; ensuring confidentiality and compliance with UN standards; and assessing the performance and impact of communication strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong critical thinking skills, the ability to draft clear messages for diverse audiences, and creativity in content development. Proficiency in public speaking and presentation is essential, along with knowledge of digital design. The ACO should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender perspectives in all areas of work. The ability to plan and organize effectively, communicate clearly, and adapt to changing priorities is crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
For applicants with an advanced university degree, professional work experience is not required. However, candidates with a first-level university degree must have at least two additional years of qualifying work experience. Knowledge of social innovation, social entrepreneurship, and strategic communications principles is essential. Skills in conducting research and data analysis are also desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered desirable but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until October 31, 2026, with the possibility of extension. It is important to note that this temporary assignment does not guarantee future employment with the UN. The position may be limited to internal candidates and is subject to the funding source. The UN is committed to diversity and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process.