Senior Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), an organization dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees, asylum-seekers, stateless persons, and other persons of concern. Established in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. The organization's mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of international protection and humanitarian assistance, focusing on providing life-saving support and solutions to those in need.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Assistant position is a full-time role that requires the individual to provide technical and administrative support to the Programme Unit within UNHCR Armenia. The primary functions of this role include assisting in the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of activities funded by UNHCR and implemented by partners. The Senior Programme Assistant will be responsible for preparing and reviewing project documents, budgets, and monitoring tools, as well as coordinating follow-ups on implementation issues. The role is critical in ensuring effective partner project implementation, compliance with UNHCR procedures, and accurate documentation. The successful candidate will contribute to the overall programme delivery by ensuring timely reporting and adherence to established guidelines and procedures. The position requires a strong understanding of programme management cycles and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve programmatic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Assistant include providing administrative assistance and support in routine services and activities within the Programme, assisting in organizing and documenting the selection of partners, ensuring compliance with established guidelines, supporting the development and implementation of monitoring plans, contributing to the review and analysis of operations plans and reports, maintaining records of implementation rates, ensuring compliance with audit certificate issuance, utilizing UNHCR's ERP system for planning and reporting, contributing to the programming of community practice, and performing other related duties as required. The role also involves actively identifying and managing risks, ensuring decision-making is based on risk assessments, and maintaining effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or higher and demonstrate relevant experience in Programme Management and Operation Management Cycle processes. Essential qualifications include knowledge of Results-Based Management and advanced computer skills, particularly in MS Office and Excel. Desirable qualifications include experience in programme management training and capacity building activities, as well as donor reporting. The candidate must also have a strong understanding of compliance and monitoring requirements within the context of UNHCR's operational framework.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field. Candidates with a high school diploma must have at least two years of relevant experience, while those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher must have at least one year of relevant work experience. The field of education is not specified, but it should be related to programme management or a similar area.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience for candidates with a high school diploma, or one year of relevant work experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Candidates must have demonstrated experience in Programme Management and Operation Management Cycle processes, as well as knowledge of Results-Based Management. Experience in training and capacity building activities related to programme management is desirable.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are English and Eastern Armenian, with a strong command of both written and spoken forms being essential. Knowledge of Russian is considered desirable but not mandatory. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in both languages to fulfill the requirements of the role and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a contract duration from April 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, with the possibility of renewal. The position requires physical presence in the office, and candidates must be legally eligible to work and reside in Armenia. The role is classified under the Local Entry and Mid-Level Support category, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. The performance of the individual contractor will be monitored through a clear workplan and regular progress reviews.