Senior IT Associate

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

• The organization is dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing more than 18,000 staff members worldwide. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR also works to ensure that refugees can access education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities, and it advocates for their rights and protection.

Job Overview:
The Senior IT Associate position is a technical role within the UNHCR operation, primarily focused on ensuring the routine functioning of IT systems within the country operation. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of an (Assistant/Associate) IT Officer, and in locations without a professional IT supervisor, the individual must be capable of working independently. The main responsibilities include maintaining and improving IT systems, liaising with regional and HQ technical units for problem-solving, and ensuring a high standard of customer service. The role requires regular interaction with all staff members and external parties such as contractors and suppliers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining smooth and friendly relations. The incumbent is expected to uphold UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity while performing their duties.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior IT Associate include conducting needs assessments for UNHCR telecommunications equipment, installing and configuring IT and telecommunications systems, ensuring equipment is in good working condition, maintaining records of installations and repairs, monitoring and maintaining LAN and network servers, carrying out minor hardware maintenance, and maintaining an up-to-date inventory of infrastructure equipment. The incumbent will also be responsible for coaching and training IT staff and users, drafting procedures for better understanding of IT equipment, upgrading computers to maintain UNHCR standards, and liaising with end users to resolve reported issues. Additionally, the Senior IT Associate will support risk management and decision-making processes, escalate unresolved issues to supervisors, and perform other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include experience with PAMA satellite systems, PABX, Cisco routers, and satellite modems, as well as knowledge of computer application packages. Hands-on experience with wireless and VoIP systems, electricity, generators, and lightning protection is desirable. The candidate must possess functional skills in Microsoft Office productivity software and IT radio communications (HF, UHF, VHF).

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma for candidates with 4 years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent for those with 2 years of relevant experience. Specific field(s) of education are not applicable for this role, but relevant certifications in satellite communications are essential.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience for those with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant work experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Experience with satellite communications systems, network management, and IT support in a humanitarian context is highly valued. The ideal candidate should also have hands-on experience with wireless and VoIP systems and the ability to work effectively in challenging environments.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station is required if it is not English. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language is essential, and familiarity with the local language is advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a General Service role at the GS-7 grade level. The contract is regular and the target start date is April 1, 202

• The position is based in Abuja, Nigeria, and may involve working in challenging conditions. The UNHCR emphasizes a safe and empowering work environment, and all staff members are expected to contribute to this goal. The role may require a written test as part of the selection process. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UNHCR policies and the UN salary scale.