Programme Associate (parental leave replacement)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. Established in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to provide assistance and support to those in need. The organization's mission is to safeguard the rights of refugees, ensure their access to asylum, and promote durable solutions for their plight. UNHCR is committed to upholding the principles of inclusion, diversity, and gender equality within its workforce, fostering an environment where all employees can thrive and contribute to the organization's goals.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate position is a critical role within the Programme Unit of UNHCR, specifically designed as a parental leave replacement for a duration of 8 months. The individual in this role will work closely under the supervision of the Assistant Programme Officer, playing a vital part in the day-to-day implementation of various programme activities. This includes coordinating efforts across different units, managing budgets effectively, assessing potential risks, and ensuring that appropriate mitigation measures are in place to address any challenges that may arise. The Programme Associate will serve as a key liaison with UNHCR's implementing partners, ensuring effective communication and coordination to align project activities with UNHCR standards. The role also involves contributing to project monitoring, reporting, and evaluation processes, which are essential for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the programmes being implemented. The Programme Associate will be responsible for reviewing periodic narrative and results reports, supporting financial verifications, and conducting field monitoring visits to gather data and insights that will inform evidence-based analysis and reporting. Overall, this position requires a proactive and organized individual who can manage multiple tasks efficiently while adhering to UNHCR's principles and values.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Serving as the focal point for effective coordination and communication with UNHCR implementing partners, providing timely technical guidance and facilitating regular information exchange.
• Contributing to project monitoring, reporting, and evaluation processes by reviewing narrative and results reports, supporting financial verifications, and conducting field monitoring visits.
• Maintaining rigorous oversight of partner performance and agreed results, ensuring compliance checks and follow-up on work plans.
• Supporting the Programme Unit in planning, drafting, monitoring, and revising budgets and expenditures, ensuring compliance with UNHCR's financial rules and requirements.
• Contributing to annual programme planning and implementation, including preparation of workplans and participation in multifunctional team discussions.
• Performing other programme-related functions, such as maintaining updated documentation and supporting internal processes linked to programme delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. The required qualifications also include fluency in English and Romanian, with prior experience managing or supporting projects and programmes being essential. Additionally, candidates should have at least 1 year of hands-on experience in budget development, financial planning, or grant management. Experience within non-profit local and/or international organizations is considered a strong asset, as is previous experience with Results-Based Management. Advanced computer skills, particularly in MS Office, are highly desirable, especially proficiency in creating pivot tables and managing data in Excel. Excellent organizational and time-management skills are crucial for handling multiple tasks and meeting tight deadlines, along with the ability and willingness to work in a multicultural environment and adhere to UNHCR’s principles and values.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma for candidates with 3 years of relevant work experience, or a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent for those with 2 years of relevant work experience. The field of expertise should be in Economics, International Relations, or another relevant field that aligns with the responsibilities of the Programme Associate role.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position includes a minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Candidates should have prior experience managing or supporting projects and programmes, with at least 1 year of hands-on experience in budget development, financial planning, or grant management. Experience within non-profit organizations, particularly in local or international contexts, is highly valued, as is familiarity with Results-Based Management and emergency response or humanitarian settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Romanian is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Russian is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse environments in which UNHCR operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role, requiring 40 hours of work per week, and is based in Chisinau, Moldova. The monthly remuneration for this position ranges from MDL 32,589.83 to MDL 38,021.5, depending on the candidate's experience. CIGNA medical insurance is provided as part of the benefits package. Candidates must meet the essential minimum requirements of the position and must have either Moldovan citizenship or the legal status necessary to work in Moldova. UNHCR emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates without distinction on the grounds of race, colour, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity. UNHCR does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.