UN Volunteer Associate Project Control Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the UNHCR was established on 14 December 1950 by the UN General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and coordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. The UNHCR strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. The organization operates globally, with a mission to provide protection and assistance to millions of refugees and displaced persons, working in various countries to address their needs and uphold their rights. The UNHCR employs thousands of staff members and collaborates with numerous partners to fulfill its mission, making it a vital player in the international humanitarian landscape.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Associate Project Control Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the effective management of projects within the UNHCR framework. This position involves participating in the annual assessment and planning cycle, ensuring that project agreements align with Country Operation Plans and UNHCR policies. The officer will be responsible for formulating and implementing performance project monitoring plans in collaboration with the Programme Unit and other relevant functions. Additionally, the role includes tracking project and direct implementation risks, reviewing financial and performance reports, and conducting missions within the geographical area of responsibility. The officer will also be tasked with monitoring expenditures, conducting reviews of internal control systems, and providing feedback and recommendations to partners. This position requires maintaining professional relationships with partners and contractors, as well as providing necessary support and capacity building to address implementation gaps. Overall, the role is integral to ensuring that projects are executed effectively and in compliance with UNHCR standards, contributing to the organization's mission of protecting refugees and resolving refugee problems worldwide.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer Associate Project Control Officer include: participating in the annual assessment and planning cycle; reviewing project agreements for conformity with Country Operation Plans and UNHCR policies; formulating and implementing performance project monitoring plans; developing direct implementation monitoring plans; supporting the selection of implementation modalities; tracking project and direct implementation risks; reviewing and verifying Financial and Performance Partner Reports; undertaking missions within the geographical area of responsibility; monitoring expenditures for direct implementation; conducting reviews of internal control systems; providing feedback and recommendations to partners; preparing project control reports; coordinating project closure; providing input to mid- and end-year programme reviews; maintaining professional relationships with partners; supporting capacity building for partners; reporting on financial and operational performance; recommending acceptance of Partner Reports; advising on improvements related to partnerships; facilitating project audits; contacting partners for project-related matters; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a mature and responsible individual with demonstrated expertise in project control and management. Candidates should possess a high degree of autonomy, personal initiative, and the ability to take ownership of their work. A strong understanding of UNHCR rules and regulations is essential, along with the ability to manage information objectively and confidentially. The ideal candidate should also have effective organizational and problem-solving skills, the ability to work under pressure, and the capacity to handle multiple concurrent projects. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders are crucial, as is a genuine commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement and UN core values.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer Associate Project Control Officer position should have a relevant educational background, typically a degree in project management, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in project control or management would be advantageous. A solid understanding of the humanitarian context and the challenges faced by refugees and displaced persons is also beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a significant level of experience in project management or control, ideally within a humanitarian or development context. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in refugee or humanitarian settings, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of managing projects, conducting assessments, and implementing monitoring and evaluation frameworks. Familiarity with financial management and reporting processes is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of the UNHCR. Knowledge of French is highly desirable, given the context of the Central African Republic and the need to communicate effectively with local partners and stakeholders. Additional languages relevant to the region may also be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in the Central African Republic, which is classified as a High-Risk non-family duty station. The living conditions can be challenging, with a volatile socio-political situation and limited medical infrastructure. The role involves working in potentially hazardous environments, requiring flexibility and a willingness to adapt to difficult living conditions. The UN system has established a curfew from 10 PM to 5 AM for safety reasons. The position may involve extensive travel within the area of operations and requires a commitment to the principles of humanitarian work, including solidarity and compassion. The contract duration and specific compensation details are not specified in the job posting.