International UN Volunteer ICT Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the UN agency that leads global efforts to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every birth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established to address the needs of women, adolescents, and marginalized populations, UNFPA operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on sexual and reproductive health and rights. The organization is committed to empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and lives, free from discrimination and violence. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes ending preventable maternal deaths, meeting the unmet need for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. The agency is known for its principled and ethical staff who uphold international norms and standards, ensuring high-impact results in their programs.

Job Overview:
The International UN Volunteer ICT Specialist plays a crucial role in supporting the UNFPA Country Office and Area Offices in Afghanistan by implementing ICT policies and standards set by the headquarters. This position involves providing comprehensive ICT and administrative support services, ensuring that the technology infrastructure is robust and efficient. The ICT Specialist will be responsible for managing IT and telecommunications systems, offering technical support to staff, and ensuring the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and compliance of data and network systems. The role requires collaboration with various program teams and interaction with the UNFPA Regional Office and Headquarters. The specialist will also be involved in training staff on ICT and cybersecurity, contributing to the overall capacity building within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the International UN Volunteer ICT Specialist include:

• Infrastructure Management: Deploying, managing, and maintaining IT and telecommunications systems, including LAN and WAN, servers, and hardware. Monitoring system performance to ensure high availability of network infrastructure. Developing and updating Google online Forms to digitize paperwork. Managing Google Drive services and providing user support.
• Technical Support and Maintenance: Installing, configuring, and troubleshooting operating systems and applications on UNFPA laptops. Providing ICT support to staff across Afghanistan, both onsite and remotely. Performing hardware maintenance and repairs. Delivering technical support for presentations and workshops. Assisting with VoIP installation and configuration.
• Security and Compliance: Safeguarding data confidentiality and integrity, implementing cybersecurity measures, and enforcing information security policies.
• Systems Administration and Development: Planning and developing new information systems, administering user accounts, and contributing to disaster recovery planning.
• Procurement and Asset Management: Preparing annual procurement plans for ICT equipment and assisting with budgeting for goods and services.
• Training and Capacity Building: Providing training and support to staff on ICT and emerging technologies.
• Additional Duties: Engaging in UN Volunteer activities and promoting volunteerism within the community.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong background in information and communication technology, with specific qualifications including:

• Proficiency in managing IT and telecommunications systems.
• Experience in providing technical support and troubleshooting for hardware and software.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity measures and data protection policies.
• Familiarity with Google Workspace tools and online collaboration platforms.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to perform field/site supervision duties.
• Excellent report writing abilities and communication skills.
• A commitment to the principles of volunteerism and the mission of UNFPA.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the ICT Specialist position should possess a degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field. Advanced certifications in ICT management or cybersecurity are highly desirable. Continuous professional development in emerging technologies and ICT best practices is also encouraged to ensure the specialist remains current in the field.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in ICT management, technical support, and systems administration. Experience working in a humanitarian or international development context is an advantage, particularly in challenging environments. Familiarity with UN systems and procedures is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Afghanistan, such as Dari or Pashto, is considered an asset and would enhance communication with local staff and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a non-family duty station, with strict security protocols in place. UN personnel are accommodated in UN guesthouses within secure compounds, and there are restrictions on travel outside these areas. The role requires flexibility and the ability to work in potentially hazardous conditions. The living environment includes basic amenities, with access to supermarkets and recreational facilities within the compound. The weather can be extreme, necessitating appropriate clothing for cold temperatures during winter. The UNFPA offers a comprehensive package of entitlements and conditions of service for volunteers, which can be reviewed on their official website.