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). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and focuses on trade, investment, and development issues. It operates globally, with a mission to promote the integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization employs a diverse workforce and aims to foster sustainable development through international cooperation and policy advocacy.

Job Overview:
The Information Systems Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance and support to National Customs Services (NCS) and National Project Teams (NPT) in the Europe and Central Asia Region. This position involves managing projects that include feasibility studies, systems analysis, design, development, and implementation of moderately complex systems. The officer will also be responsible for developing detailed technical specifications and user documentation for ASYCUDA systems, ensuring that user requirements are effectively translated into new applications. The role requires maintaining and enhancing existing ASYCUDA user systems, troubleshooting issues, and providing ongoing user support. Additionally, the officer will develop training materials and conduct training sessions for staff, ensuring that they are well-equipped to utilize the systems effectively. The position also involves developing disaster recovery plans and participating in the creation of reports and papers on systems-related topics, contributing to the overall strategy and effectiveness of the ASYCUDA Programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Information Systems Officer will manage projects involving feasibility studies, systems analysis, design, development, and implementation of new systems. Responsibilities include developing detailed system specifications, providing specialized advice to NCSs and NPTs, maintaining and upgrading existing ASYCUDA systems, troubleshooting issues, and providing user support. The officer will also develop and maintain ASYCUDA proprietary programs, ensuring data security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and access controls. Organizing and performing unit and integrated testing, assisting users in acceptance testing, and developing customs training materials are also key duties. The officer will participate in writing reports on systems-related topics and provide guidance to junior staff and consultants.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of information technology and information management, particularly in systems analysis, database design, and programming related to customs and international trade digitalization. Proficiency in high-level programming languages and experience in structured/object-oriented design, relational systems, and document management is essential. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are required, along with the ability to independently maintain systems and develop innovative solutions to complex issues. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, client orientation, and technological awareness.

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.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in 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. Experience in organizing and delivering training courses within governmental organizations is desirable, as is experience working in an international environment such as the United Nations. Technical ICT programming experience with Java, Linux, and Oracle is also desirable.

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

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for three months. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to candidates based at the duty station, and internal candidates who have been recruited through a competitive examination may be prioritized. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. An impeccable record for integrity and professional ethical standards is essential, and candidates with a history of violations of international human rights law or other serious offenses will not be considered for employment.