Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP's Ecosystems Division collaborates with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy, aiming to strengthen the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP has a global presence and operates in numerous countries, focusing on various environmental issues and sustainable development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is situated within the UNEP/Ecosystems Division/Marine and Freshwater Branch/Freshwater and Wetlands Unit at the Nairobi duty station. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Programme Management Officer and the overall supervision of the Chief of Unit. The role involves providing support in planning and implementing activities for the Freshwater and Wetlands Unit, assisting in the coordination of programme/project planning and preparation, and monitoring the status of programme/project proposals. The Programme Assistant will also be responsible for budget preparation and analysis, monitoring and evaluation of programmes/projects, and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve organizational goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Assistant include:

• Assisting in the planning and implementation of activities for the Freshwater and Wetlands Unit, including research, compilation, analysis, and presentation of data on specific programmes/projects.
• Coordinating programme/project planning and preparation, monitoring the status of proposals, and ensuring timely submission of project documents for approval.
• Preparing and analyzing programme/project budget proposals, interpreting budget guidelines, and ensuring that submissions are complete and justified.
• Monitoring and evaluating programmes/projects, tracking and analyzing data related to outputs and resources utilized, and preparing revised budget estimates as necessary.
• Collaborating with programme/project managers on performance reporting and ensuring compliance with reporting requirements.
• Drafting programme/project summaries and coordinating the review and clearance process for reports.
• Serving as a focal point for coordination and monitoring of programme/project implementation activities, including administrative actions and resolving issues related to project implementation.
• Maintaining and updating files and internal databases, generating reports, and preparing correspondence related to programme/project administration.
• Providing guidance and training to new or junior staff and assisting with data collection and analysis for decision-making. 1
• Maintaining awareness of UNEP and Division-wide rules and regulations and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Assistant position include a high school diploma or equivalent, with supplementary training in administration, programme and project management, or a related field being desirable. Candidates should possess a strong understanding of programme and project management processes, including planning, monitoring, budgeting, and coordination of implementation activities. The ability to maintain accurate records, review and interpret data, and resolve discrepancies is essential. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Supplementary training in administration, programme and project management, or a related field is desirable, indicating a preference for candidates who have pursued further education or specialized training relevant to the role.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in programme or project administration, finance, reporting, and project management. This requirement is reduced to two (2) years for candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher. Additionally, candidates should have at least three (3) years of experience with ERP systems, Business Intelligence, and project structures, as well as two (2) years of working experience within the United Nations system or a similar international organization. Experience in organizing activities, systematic follow-up, and knowledge of legal, budgeting, and financial processes is desirable, along with at least one (1) year of experience in data analytics or a related area.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. There are no additional desirable languages specified for this position, but proficiency in French may be beneficial given the bilingual nature of the UN.

Additional Notes:
The appointment against this post is for an initial period of one (1) year and may be subject to extension, contingent upon the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is subject to local recruitment, and applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in the duty station where the position is located. Staff members subject to local recruitment are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusively applicable to international recruitment. The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving a 50/50 gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process.