Senior Programme Assistant

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, to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights of refugees and displaced persons, providing them with assistance and support, and working towards durable solutions for their plight.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Assistant position is crucial for supporting the operational activities of UNHCR in Iraq, particularly in the context of the ongoing humanitarian and development needs following years of conflict. The incumbent will be responsible for providing administrative assistance and support in routine services and activities within the Programme, ensuring that the needs of persons of concern are met effectively. This role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including partners and other sections within UNHCR, to monitor program activities and implement administrative requirements. The Senior Programme Assistant will also be expected to contribute to the development and implementation of monitoring plans, ensuring compliance with established guidelines and procedures, and generating data for evidence-based programmatic decisions. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project or programme management, particularly within the humanitarian sector, and will be proficient in using UNHCR systems and tools.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Assistant include: providing administrative assistance and support in routine services and activities within the Programme; assisting in organizing and documenting the selection of partners in accordance with UNHCR policies; ensuring that partnership agreements are established in a timely manner and monitored regularly; supporting the development and implementation of monitoring plans for activities; contributing to the review and analysis of operations plans and reports; ensuring compliance with audit certificate issuance for partners; using UNHCR's ERP system for planning, budgeting, implementation, and reporting; actively contributing to UNHCR's programming community of practice; identifying and managing risks; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Senior Programme Assistant position include demonstrated experience in Programme Management and Operation Management Cycle, knowledge of Results-Based Management, and advanced computer skills, particularly in MS Office and Excel. Candidates should also possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while engaging effectively with stakeholders. Familiarity with UNHCR systems and tools, as well as knowledge of Kurdish, is desirable. Additionally, candidates should have excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate in a multicultural team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma with 2 years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with 1 year of relevant work experience. While specific field education is not applicable, candidates with certifications or training relevant to Programme Management will be considered favorably.

Experience:
Candidates for the Senior Programme Assistant position should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in Programme Management or related fields. Experience in the humanitarian sector, particularly with UNHCR or other UN agencies, is highly desirable. The candidate should also have a demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a Multi-Functional Team (MFT).

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is Arabic. Knowledge of Kurdish is also a significant advantage. Candidates are required to list all language skills in their application, indicating their proficiency level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a UNOPS LICA4 role and is not remote. The target start date for the position is February 1, 202

• Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The application deadline is January 21, 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.