Senior Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which was established in 1950 with the mission to protect the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. UNHCR's primary goal is to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. The organization is committed to ensuring that refugees and displaced persons are treated with dignity and respect, and that their rights are upheld in accordance with law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Assistant position is designed to provide administrative assistance and support to the UNHCR's programmatic activities. The incumbent will work closely with senior program staff and will be responsible for ensuring that the needs of persons of concern are met through effective program management. This role requires a strong understanding of the Programme and Operations Management Cycle, as well as the application of Results-Based Management (RBM) approaches. The Senior Programme Assistant will be involved in the preparation and design of donor proposals, ensuring that they align with organizational priorities and reflect a strong results orientation. The position also entails supporting operational planning processes, providing technical guidance, and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures. The incumbent will be expected to monitor program performance data and contribute to the continuous improvement of programming tools and processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Assistant include providing administrative support in routine services and activities within the program, assisting in the selection of partners, ensuring compliance with partnership agreements, and supporting the development and implementation of monitoring plans. The incumbent will also contribute to the review and analysis of operations plans and reports, maintain records of implementation rates, and ensure compliance with audit requirements. Additionally, the Senior Programme Assistant will utilize UNHCR's ERP system for planning, budgeting, implementation, and reporting, and will actively contribute to the programming community of practice. The role requires the identification and management of risks, as well as the ability to raise issues and concerns to supervisors or relevant colleagues.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in program management, with a strong command of the Programme and Operations Management Cycle. Candidates must possess advanced computer skills, particularly in MS Office, including Excel. Demonstrated experience in preparing donor proposals, supporting operational planning, and managing partnerships is essential. The ideal candidate should have a solid understanding of Results-Based Management principles and experience in monitoring and evaluating program performance. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage deadlines are also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have at least a high school diploma, with a preference for those holding a bachelor's degree or higher. Completion of UNHCR learning programs or specific training relevant to the position is desirable, particularly in areas such as Programme Management and Monitoring and Evaluation. Knowledge of donor priorities and financial logic is also beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience for candidates with a high school diploma, or 1 year of relevant work experience for those with a bachelor's degree or higher. Experience in program management, operational planning, and partnership management is essential, along with a proven track record of supporting program implementation and monitoring.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is proficiency in Spanish and English. Knowledge of the local language is also beneficial. For international professional and field service jobs, knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station is required if it is not English.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA5 category and is not remote. The target start date for the position is June 1, 2026, and the application deadline is June 4, 202

• The role is full-time and involves working within a family type environment. The position is subject to the UNHCR's policies and regulations, and all staff members are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment.