Programme Associate

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

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, 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 and assistance to refugees, internally displaced persons, and stateless individuals, working towards durable solutions for those affected by forced displacement.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate position at UNHCR Rwanda is integral to the implementation of the PRM-funded 'DRC–Rwanda Voluntary Returns' project. This role involves providing programmatic and administrative support to ensure the timely execution, monitoring, and reporting of project activities. The Programme Associate will work closely with various UNHCR units, implementing partners, and government counterparts to facilitate the voluntary, safe, and dignified return of Rwandan refugees from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and to assist Congolese refugees in their repatriation from Rwanda. The position requires a strong understanding of the Operations Management Cycle and adherence to UNHCR’s Results-Based Management (RBM) framework. The Programme Associate will also be responsible for supporting needs assessments, data collection, and the establishment of partnership agreements, ensuring compliance with UNHCR procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: supporting needs assessments and data collection related to voluntary repatriation and reintegration activities; assisting in the preparation of project documents, work plans, budgets, and revisions; establishing and monitoring partnership agreements; liaising with partners and field offices to ensure timely implementation of activities; maintaining detailed tracking of project expenditures and performance indicators; facilitating coordination with field units; developing and implementing monitoring plans; reviewing partners’ progress and financial reports; compiling and analyzing programme performance data; supporting the organization of coordination meetings; maintaining project documentation; assisting in training partners and field staff; providing logistical and administrative support for meetings and workshops; and utilizing UNHCR’s corporate systems for programme implementation and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in Business Administration, Economics, International Relations, Social Sciences, or a related field. Additionally, relevant work experience is required: for G6 level, a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Experience in programme management, project administration, or coordination in humanitarian or development contexts is essential. Familiarity with results-based management (RBM), monitoring and evaluation, and budget management is crucial. Experience with UNHCR, UN agencies, NGOs, or government counterparts in humanitarian or return/reintegration projects is desirable, and familiarity with UNHCR systems is an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in fields such as Business Administration, Economics, International Relations, Social Sciences, or a related discipline. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of programme management and the humanitarian context in which UNHCR operates.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. This experience should preferably be in programme management, project administration, or coordination within humanitarian or development contexts. Familiarity with results-based management (RBM), monitoring and evaluation, and budget management is essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of French or Kinyarwanda is considered an asset, enhancing communication with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kigali, Rwanda, with potential travel to field locations and border transit centres. The contract is under UNOPS Individual Contractor Agreement (LICA 6) conditions, and the position is expected to contribute directly to the successful implementation of the PRM-funded DRC–Rwanda Voluntary Returns project, supporting UNHCR’s mandate for durable solutions and protection. The contract duration is from November 2025 to December 2026, with the possibility of renewal.