Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the leading United Nations agency for information and communication technologies. Established to connect the world, ITU manages the radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbits at the international level, works to improve communication infrastructure in developing countries, and establishes global standards that foster seamless interconnection of various communication systems. ITU also organizes global Telecom events that bring together influential representatives from government and the private sector to exchange ideas and knowledge for the benefit of all. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply, with a strong emphasis on achieving gender balance.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer position is situated within the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) of ITU, which is responsible for coordinating the work of the Telecommunication Development Sector. The role involves planning, coordinating, monitoring, and implementing administrative activities, training programs, and projects aimed at fostering universal access to affordable, high-quality, and secure telecommunications and ICTs. The Programme Officer will work closely with ITU officers in the Regional Office and Area Offices, as well as thematic clusters, to support regional activities and assist ASP member countries in fulfilling their telecommunications needs. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying and analyzing the needs of developing countries in the region, preparing project documents, and ensuring effective communication and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will participate in regional and national activities, primarily organizing cybersecurity workshops for ITU members. They will design methodological documents and tools to identify the needs of countries and propose regional projects to assist them. The role includes preparing agreements and project documents, providing support to colleagues in project design, mobilizing resources, and expanding partnerships for telecommunications development. The Programme Officer will also contribute to the preparation of the draft Operational Plan, coordinate administrative and programmatic activities, serve as a focal point for assigned countries, and represent ITU in UNCT meetings. Additionally, the incumbent will prepare presentations and draft speeches related to ITU/BDT activities in Asia and the Pacific, and perform any other related duties assigned by the Regional Director.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in telecommunications engineering, business or public administration, information systems, social sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, education from a reputed college of advanced education with a diploma equivalent to an advanced university degree in one of the specified fields may be accepted. For internal candidates, a first university degree in one of the fields above, combined with seven years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree for promotion or rotation purposes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as telecommunications engineering, business or public administration, information systems, or social sciences. Candidates with a first university degree and extensive experience may also be considered, particularly for internal promotions.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in telecommunication/ICT development activities is required, with at least two years at the international level. Candidates with a Doctorate in a related field may substitute two years of working experience. Experience within the telecommunications or ICT sector in the Asia and Pacific region, particularly in project formulation and management for technical cooperation, is essential. Familiarity with the work of UN agencies is desirable.

Languages:
Candidates must have advanced knowledge of one of the six official languages of the Union (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish) and intermediate knowledge of a second official language. Knowledge of a third official language is advantageous. There may be flexibility in language requirements for candidates from developing countries who possess thorough knowledge of one official language.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of two years, with the possibility of renewal. It is open to external candidates and is based in Bangkok, Thailand. The total annual salary consists of a net annual salary and a post adjustment, with the annual salary starting from $70,212 plus a post adjustment of $25,41

• Additional allowances and benefits are subject to specific terms of appointment. Candidates must complete an online application and provide accurate information, as the evaluation process may include tests and competency-based interviews. ITU does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.