Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead United Nations agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every individual has access to reproductive health services and the ability to make informed choices about their bodies and futures. The organization is committed to achieving gender balance and fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce, with a strong emphasis on empowering women and marginalized groups. UNFPA's mission is guided by the principles of human rights and social justice, aiming to address population and development issues through evidence-based policies and programs. The organization is currently focused on implementing its Strategic Plan for 2026-2029, which outlines its response to global challenges and aims to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant plays a crucial role in delivering quality programme support services to both internal and external clients, ensuring adherence to all relevant rules, guidelines, processes, and procedures. This position is client and results-oriented, focusing on the effective implementation of the country programme. The Programme Assistant is responsible for applying established systems and procedures while assisting in the creation of substantive knowledge by compiling, synthesizing, and analyzing information related to population and development, reproductive health, and gender issues. Reporting directly to the Humanitarian Coordinator, the Programme Assistant is expected to contribute to the overall success of UNFPA's mission by providing essential support in various programmatic areas, including project planning, financial management, and administrative tasks. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to delivering high-quality results that align with UNFPA's strategic objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant's duties and responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks aimed at supporting the effective implementation of UNFPA's programs. Key responsibilities include:

• Programme Support: Assisting in the coordination of programme/project planning and preparation of annual workplans; compiling, summarizing, and presenting basic information/data on specific programmes/projects; participating in the preparation of annual and quarterly project workplans; facilitating project review meetings and providing logistical support; undertaking monitoring visits to project sites and verifying project assets annually.
• Financial Support: Preparing budget revisions based on approved workplans; monitoring project budgetary commitments; generating financial reports in a timely manner; checking project financial reports for accuracy; taking necessary actions for operational and financial closure of projects; following up with implementation partners for timely submission of FACE reports.
• Administrative Support: Ensuring all official documents are prepared and archived; facilitating project activities by arranging meetings and coordinating logistical support; preparing documentation and minutes of meetings; ensuring knowledge-sharing between programme and operations clusters; drafting routine project-related correspondence; providing information to missions and visitors. The Programme Assistant is expected to work collaboratively with team members and stakeholders to achieve programmatic goals and ensure effective communication and coordination across various functions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Programme Assistant position must possess a completed Secondary Level Education as a minimum requirement. A first-level university degree in finance, public health, population, economics, demography, or other related social sciences fields is preferable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate relevant experience and knowledge in social sector/programme development activities, with at least 5 years of experience required. Familiarity with results-based management is desirable, along with the ability to work effectively in a team, manage time efficiently, and multitask. Knowledge of asset management and financial management is also beneficial. Strong communication and writing skills are essential, as is the ability to express ideas and concepts clearly and concisely in both written and oral forms. Proficiency in computer systems and applications, particularly Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Programme Assistant position includes a completed Secondary Level Education as a minimum. Candidates with a first-level university degree in relevant fields such as finance, public health, population, economics, demography, or other related social sciences are preferred. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of the social sector and effectively supporting UNFPA's programs and initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 5 years of relevant experience in support of social sector/programme development activities. This experience should demonstrate a solid understanding of programmatic processes and the ability to contribute effectively to project planning, implementation, and evaluation. Candidates should also have experience in financial management and reporting, as well as familiarity with results-based management principles. The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple tasks efficiently is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English and a local language, either Dari or Pashto, is required for the Programme Assistant position. Additionally, a working knowledge of other UN languages would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse and multicultural environment. Proficiency in local languages is particularly important for engaging with community stakeholders and ensuring that programmatic efforts are culturally relevant and accessible.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages women and individuals from underrepresented groups, including the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, and persons with disabilities, to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities upon request to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics or dimensions of diversity. The selection and appointment process may be subject to background and reference checks, medical clearance, visa issuance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process.