Associate Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is an organization established by the UN General Assembly with the mission to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. UN-Habitat serves as the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system, working collaboratively with partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities. The organization aims to leverage urbanization as a transformative force to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty. UN-Habitat's Global Knowledge and Advocacy Division is tasked with advancing adequate housing and sustainable urbanization through cutting-edge research, data-driven insights, digital innovations, and capacity development solutions, while also fostering policy action through collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Associate Programme Officer position is located within the Digitalization and Innovation Unit of the Knowledge and Innovation Branch of the Global Knowledge and Advocacy Division (GKAD) at UN-Habitat. The incumbent will report directly to the Head of the Digitalization and Innovation Unit. This role involves conducting basic research on various aspects of programs and operations related to innovation, digitalization, and smart cities. The officer will be expected to collect, analyze, and present statistical data and other information from diverse sources. Additionally, the position entails providing substantive support for policy coordination and evaluation functions, assisting in consulting assignments, and contributing to the preparation of various written outputs such as background papers, analytical notes, and reports. The Associate Programme Officer will also engage in outreach activities, participate in training workshops, and support field missions, all while coordinating budget-related activities and preparing necessary documents and reports.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Programme Officer include conducting research on innovation and smart cities, providing support for policy coordination and evaluation, assisting in consulting assignments, preparing written outputs, providing administrative support for meetings and conferences, participating in outreach activities, and coordinating budget-related activities. The officer will also be responsible for collecting and analyzing data, identifying trends, and providing insights through data visualization methods. Other related duties may be assigned as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of theories, concepts, and approaches relevant to the sector of urbanization and innovation. They should have the ability to identify and analyze issues, develop sources for data collection, and conduct independent research. The role requires excellent planning and organizational skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, commitment to gender perspectives, and the ability to manage conflicting priorities effectively.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, environmental studies, sustainable development, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in the specified fields, combined with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in program or project management related to smart cities or innovation is required. Candidates should have experience in planning and implementing smart city strategies and conducting readiness assessments for digital transformation. At least two years of working experience within the United Nations system or a similar international organization is also required, along with one year or more of experience in data analytics or a related area being desirable.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 30 June 202

• It may be limited to internal candidates who have been recruited through a competitive examination or selection process. The position is subject to the funding source, and eligibility may be limited to candidates based at the duty station. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. All applicants must provide complete and accurate information in their applications, and the recruitment process will adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.