Information Systems Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Programme, which is part of the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The organization focuses on enhancing the efficiency of customs operations and international trade through the implementation of advanced technology and systems. UNCTAD was established in 1964 and operates globally, with a mission to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity among its staff.

Job Overview:
The Information Systems Officer will play a crucial role in the planning, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of complex information systems that are vital to the operations of the ASYCUDA Programme. This position requires a strategic thinker who can manage significant systems projects that impact critical operations and user groups. The officer will provide expert advice on systems analysis and design, ensuring that the needs for new systems or modifications to existing systems are identified and addressed. The role involves developing project plans, schedules, and cost estimates, as well as overseeing the technical evaluation of proposals for contractual services. The officer will also be responsible for tracking project progress, liaising with users, and providing leadership to project teams. Additionally, the officer will prepare technical documentation and training materials, keeping abreast of technological developments to ensure the organization remains at the forefront of customs digitalization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Information Systems Officer include planning and directing major systems projects, providing expert advice on systems analysis and design, developing feasibility assessments and project plans, overseeing technical evaluations of proposals, tracking project progress, providing leadership to project teams, developing information standards and guidelines, preparing technical and user documentation, and facilitating communication between the Information Technology Services Division and its clients. The officer will also be involved in the execution of complex project aspects, ensuring that all design aspects are addressed and that control and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security mechanisms are established. The role requires active participation in research and development to evaluate new products and technologies, as well as preparing various technical reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a deep knowledge of complex IT systems design, development, management, and maintenance, particularly in relation to customs and international trade digitalization. They should have the ability to develop and oversee large governmental agency systems and possess strong analytical skills to evaluate critical systems matters. The officer must demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, planning and organizing skills, and technological awareness. A commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in computer science, information systems, mathematics, statistics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in the planning, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of computer information systems or related areas is required. Relevant experience in customs and international trade digitalization, system deployment, and support is essential. Candidates should have experience coordinating and developing full-stack, cloud-native, enterprise-grade Java applications, as well as managing a software development team. Experience in Single Window for Trade implementation or related areas is desirable, along with experience in IT research and development, particularly in the use of AI technologies.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French or Chinese (Mandarin), Spanish, Russian, or Arabic is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of seven months, subject to the availability of the post or funds, and budgetary approval. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The position may be limited to internal candidates, and staff members reaching the mandatory age of separation within the duration of the temporary need period are not eligible to apply. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.