National UN Volunteer Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, established to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA's mission is to achieve universal access to sexual and reproductive health, realize reproductive rights, and reduce maternal mortality. The organization aims to improve the lives of adolescents, youth, and women, focusing on population dynamics, human rights, and gender equality. UNFPA has launched efforts to achieve three transformative results: ending unmet need for family planning, ending preventable maternal deaths, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. The organization recognizes innovation as a key accelerator to achieve these results, aiming to strengthen corporate innovation architecture, scale up effective innovations, form new partnerships, and leverage financing for innovation.

Job Overview:
The National UN Volunteer Specialist will play a crucial role in coordinating the placement of YES youth into structured professional roles across various UN agencies, government departments, and private sector partners. This position is integral to ensuring operational excellence and youth empowerment while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 8 (Decent Work) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). The specialist will work under the direct supervision of the UNFPA focal point of the UN Youth Employment Service (UN-YES) partnership, focusing on professional development, SDG advocacy, and community impact. The role involves facilitating stakeholder consultations, designing national youth engagement programs, and ensuring that youth participants receive mentorship and career coaching throughout their assignments.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Programme Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the focal point for coordination between UNV, YES, UN agencies, and GenU partners; facilitate stakeholder consultations, partnership agreements, and joint planning sessions; support the design and implementation of a national UN-private sector youth engagement programme focused on SDG localization.
• Youth Recruitment & Placement Oversight: Coordinate the recruitment, onboarding, and placement of YES youth in 6–12-month assignments; ensure structured work plans, mentorship, and career coaching are in place for each youth participant; monitor placement outcomes and ensure alignment with YES and UNV standards.
• Monitoring, Evaluation & Knowledge Sharing: Track youth progress and programme outputs using the Unified Volunteers Platform (UVP); document field stories, lessons learned, and best practices for inclusion in YES and UNV annual reports; contribute to reporting for the UN South Africa Annual Report, YES Results Report, and the Global State of the World’s Volunteerism Report.
• Capacity Building & Wellbeing Support: Facilitate access to UNV e-Campus, soft skills training, and technical workshops; ensure wellbeing protocols are implemented, including psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support, peer mentoring, and safety measures; promote transition pathways for youth into long-term employment or further development opportunities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. They should demonstrate accountability, client orientation, and the ability to empower others. The role requires a proactive approach to building trust and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Additionally, candidates should have experience in youth engagement, program coordination, and stakeholder management.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in social sciences, international development, public administration, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in youth development, program management, or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in program coordination, youth engagement, or related fields. Experience working with UN agencies, government departments, or non-profit organizations is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Sustainable Development Goals and youth empowerment initiatives will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly local languages spoken in South Africa, is considered a valuable asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of R23 820.1

• Volunteers will receive a one-time entry lump sum of $350 at the start of the assignment, along with medical insurance, life cover, and annual leave. At the end of the assignment, a one-time exit lump sum will also be provided. The role is based in South Africa, where the living conditions in larger cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria are cosmopolitan, offering various amenities and international cuisine, but candidates should remain vigilant regarding safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security.