Associate Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which was established in 1950 with the mission to protect the rights and well-being of refugees. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of international protection, and it aims to provide durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Associate Programme Officer position is crucial for supporting the implementation of protection and solutions strategies within the UNHCR operations in Brazil. The incumbent will work closely with various stakeholders, including forcibly displaced persons, governmental institutions, and the private sector, to ensure that program management aligns with UNHCR's strategic directions and global priorities. The role involves coordinating with different sections to harmonize programmatic approaches and ensuring compliance with established policies and guidelines. The incumbent will also be responsible for developing multi-year protection strategies and annual plans, focusing on results-based management and capacity building. This position requires a strong understanding of the operational context in Brazil, particularly regarding the challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers, and the ability to manage partnerships effectively to mobilize resources and enhance programmatic impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Programme Officer include assessing and analyzing the needs of forcibly displaced and stateless persons using an Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) perspective. The incumbent will support the development of multi-year protection and solutions strategies, assist in planning processes, and ensure compliance with UNHCR's Programme Manual. Additionally, the role involves broadening partnerships with key stakeholders, ensuring effective implementation of partnership agreements, and contributing to monitoring approaches and tools across the region. The incumbent will also oversee the follow-up of internal and external audit observations related to programmatic issues and support risk management efforts. Other responsibilities include providing programmatic guidance, coordinating with other sections, and performing any other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, two years with a graduate degree, or one year with a doctorate. Essential qualifications include demonstrated experience in program management, familiarity with Results-Based Management, and knowledge of the centrality of protection in programming. Desirable qualifications include experience in coordination within an inter-agency context and sound experience in program management training and capacity building activities. The incumbent should also have strong stakeholder management skills and the ability to work effectively in a multi-functional team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in Economics, Business Administration, Social Sciences, or a related field. Candidates with certifications in Programme Management, particularly the CP-PM Certification Programme, are preferred. A strong academic foundation in relevant fields is essential to understand the complexities of program management within the humanitarian context.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position is three years of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree, two years for those with a graduate degree, or one year for candidates with a doctorate. Experience in field operations, program management, and familiarity with the challenges faced by forcibly displaced persons in a humanitarian context is crucial. The incumbent should also have a proven track record in managing teams and capacity-building initiatives.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is Portuguese in Brazil. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly in enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS IICA1 staff member type and is not remote. The target start date for the position is January 1, 2026, and the application deadline is January 12, 202

• The role is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment, requiring a commitment to UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity. The incumbent will be expected to contribute to a safe and empowering work environment, actively preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct.