Area Coordination Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program is dedicated to contributing to peace and development through volunteerism on a global scale. Established to promote the value and recognition of volunteerism, UNV works closely with various partners to integrate qualified volunteers into development programming. The organization is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and reports to the UNDP/UNFPA/UNOPS Executive Board. UNV operates in numerous countries, mobilizing volunteers to support UN Agencies, Funds, and Programmes in areas such as peace, development, and humanitarian assistance. The mission of UNV is to enhance the impact of volunteerism in achieving sustainable development goals and fostering community engagement.

Job Overview:
The Area Coordination Assistant role is crucial for supporting the mobilization and placement of UN Volunteers within UN Agencies and Host Entities at the country level. This position involves managing relationships with priority partners, facilitating data exchange, and ensuring partner satisfaction with volunteer services. The UN Volunteer will work closely with the MCFU team based in Lebanon and will be responsible for identifying and cultivating partnerships, tracking volunteer mobilization opportunities, and contributing to the overall success of volunteer assignments. The role requires regular interaction with UN personnel at various levels and emphasizes the importance of collaboration across multiple units and functions within the UN system. The Area Coordination Assistant will also play a key role in promoting the concept of online volunteering and ensuring a positive experience for volunteers throughout their assignments.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in mobilizing volunteers and developing and maintaining partnerships: Support the mobilization of UN Volunteers, manage relationships with UN entities, and document mobilization opportunities. Collect and share information on UN programming frameworks and contribute to tailored initiatives that respond to partners' needs.
• Support talent acquisition and outreach: Assist in attracting qualified local talent, identify effective channels for recruitment, and support advocacy campaigns to raise awareness about volunteerism.
• Support volunteer experience and duty of care: Assist with onboarding, provide support throughout the volunteer management cycle, gather volunteer feedback, and ensure effective integration of volunteers. Liaise with security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security focal points and provide tailored support to volunteers facing challenges.
• Backstop other functions in the MCFU during peak periods or personnel absences to ensure continuity of service.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong relationship management skills, the ability to engage with diverse partners, and a results-oriented mindset. They should demonstrate knowledge of relevant theories and methodologies related to volunteerism and development. Additionally, candidates should have a customer satisfaction focus, with the ability to anticipate client needs and provide timely solutions. Integration within the UN system and knowledge generation capabilities are also essential for this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in social sciences, international relations, development studies, or a related field is required. Candidates with additional certifications or training in volunteer management or project management will be considered favorably.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in volunteer management, partnership development, or a related field. Experience working with UN agencies or in a multicultural environment is highly desirable. Familiarity with the UN system and its operations will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the local context.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in Damascus, Syria. The selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The position is expected to start on January 1, 2026, with a short-term contract until March 31, 2026, followed by a subsequent contract from April 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, contingent on satisfactory performance. The benefits package includes a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of USD 919, a well-being differential of USD 275.7, annual and learning leaves, medical and life insurance, and free access to various learning platforms. National UN Volunteers are part of a malicious insurance plan and are expected to be culturally sensitive.