Information Systems Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Programme, which is part of the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The organization focuses on enhancing the capacity of developing countries to manage their customs operations effectively through the use of technology. UNCTAD was established in 1964 and operates in over 190 countries, with a mission to promote the integration of developing countries into the global economy. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering sustainable development and trade facilitation.

Job Overview:
The Information Systems Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance and support to National Customs Services (NCS) and National Project Teams (NPT) across Asia. This position involves managing projects that include feasibility studies, systems analysis, design, development, and implementation of moderately complex systems. The officer will be responsible for developing detailed technical specifications and user documentation for ASYCUDA systems, ensuring that user requirements are effectively translated into functional applications. The role also includes maintaining and enhancing existing ASYCUDA user systems, troubleshooting issues, and providing ongoing user support. The officer will develop training materials and conduct training sessions for staff, ensuring that they are well-equipped to utilize the systems effectively. Additionally, the officer will be involved in writing reports on systems-related topics and may supervise junior staff or consultants, contributing to the overall capacity building of customs operations in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Information Systems Officer include: managing projects related to the development and implementation of new systems; developing technical specifications and user documentation; providing specialized advice to NCSs and NPTs; maintaining and upgrading existing ASYCUDA systems; troubleshooting and resolving user issues; developing and maintaining proprietary programs; organizing unit and integrated testing; developing training materials and conducting training sessions; creating disaster recovery plans; participating in report writing; and providing guidance to junior staff and consultants. The officer will also be responsible for ensuring data security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and access controls, as well as monitoring system performance and effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of information technology and information management, particularly in systems analysis, database design, and programming related to customs and international trade digitalization. Proficiency in high-level programming languages and experience in structured/object-oriented design, relational systems, and scripting languages are essential. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are required, along with the ability to develop and implement systems of moderate size and complexity. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, client orientation, and technological awareness in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in computer science, information systems, mathematics, statistics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in planning, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of computer information systems or related areas is required. Relevant experience in customs and international trade digitalization, system deployment, and support is essential. Experience in organizing and delivering training courses within governmental organizations, as well as working in an international environment, is desirable. Technical experience in programming with Java, Linux, and Oracle is also preferred.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Desirable languages include Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), Russian, French, and Spanish, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for six months. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The appointment is for an initial period of six months, and while it may provide new work experience, it does not guarantee future employment in the position. The eligibility for this temporary job opening may be limited to candidates based at the duty station, and it may be restricted to internal candidates who have been recruited through a competitive examination. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. An impeccable record for integrity and professional ethical standards is essential, and candidates with a history of violations of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law or ethical standards will not be considered for employment.