Programme Assistant

Programme Assistant

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

January 22, 2026March 8, 2026Brazil
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established in 1950 with the mission to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge. The organization has been pivotal in providing support during multiple global crises, assisting refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced persons, and stateless individuals. UNHCR operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a significant presence in Brazil, where it has been active in supporting over 562,589 refugees and asylum-seekers since 202
  • The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society, to promote the rights and integration of refugees into society. UNHCR's commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its hiring practices, aiming to recruit candidates from underrepresented groups in Brazil, including black individuals, indigenous people, and persons with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position at UNHCR involves providing essential administrative support and assistance within the program framework to better meet the needs of persons of concern. The role requires the incumbent to assist in organizing and documenting the selection of partners, ensuring compliance with established guidelines and procedures. The Programme Assistant will also support the development and implementation of monitoring plans for activities, contribute to the review and analysis of operations plans, and ensure compliance with audit requirements. The position emphasizes the importance of collaboration within a multi-functional team and requires the incumbent to engage with various stakeholders to collect information and monitor program activities. The Programme Assistant will utilize UNHCR's Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system for planning, budgeting, and reporting, contributing to evidence-based programmatic decisions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Assistant include:
  • Providing administrative assistance and support in routine services and activities within the program.
  • Assisting in organizing and documenting the selection of partners in accordance with UNHCR's policies.
  • Supporting the establishment and monitoring of partnership agreements in compliance with guidelines.
  • Contributing to the development and implementation of monitoring plans for activities.
  • Reviewing and analyzing operations plans and reports to ensure quality assurance.
  • Maintaining records of implementation rates, performance progress, and expenditures.
  • Ensuring compliance with audit certificate issuance for partners.
  • Utilizing the ERP system for core activities related to planning and reporting.
  • Actively participating in the programming community of practice and contributing to improvements in programming tools and processes. 1
  • Performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Assistant position include strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively within a team. Candidates should possess a solid understanding of program management principles and practices, as well as familiarity with UNHCR's policies and procedures. Proficiency in using ERP systems and other relevant software is essential. The role demands excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. A commitment to UNHCR's mission and values, particularly in relation to diversity and inclusion, is crucial.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Programme Assistant position should have a minimum of a secondary education, with a preference for those holding a university degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, international relations, or public administration. Additional training or certifications related to program management or humanitarian assistance would be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of two years of relevant experience in administrative support, program management, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of refugee assistance or humanitarian programs, is highly desirable. Familiarity with UNHCR's operations and procedures will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, given the location in Brazil. Proficiency in English is also required, as it is the working language of UNHCR. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly Spanish or French, would be considered a valuable asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The assignment will be based in Boa Vista, the capital of Roraima, which is classified as a family duty station with moderate hardship. Living conditions are generally adequate, but the UN Volunteer will need to arrange their own accommodation and living essentials, as no furnished housing is provided. The position is part of the national UN Volunteers program, which includes a malicious insurance plan. Basic health services are available locally, but specialized services may not be. Candidates are advised to carry necessary prescription medications and obtain the yellow fever vaccine prior to the assignment. The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation in Brazil requires a high degree of caution due to crime rates, and UN personnel must adhere to safety protocols.
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