Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, 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 sexual and reproductive health services and rights. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet needs for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' health and rights, and calls for a collective effort to build forward better while upholding human rights and ethical standards.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is integral to the Country Office of UNFPA in Timor Leste, providing essential support to the programmes unit. This role involves assisting in the design and implementation of various programs, conducting research, and performing data analysis. The Programme Assistant serves as a vital link between the programmatic and technical teams, facilitating data management and coordination efforts that empower the team to make informed decisions and maximize impact. The position requires an organized and proactive individual who thrives in a collaborative environment, contributing to a mission-driven organization that aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of people across the region. The Programme Assistant will apply established UNFPA systems and procedures to assist in creating substantive knowledge by compiling, synthesizing, and analyzing information relevant to population and development, reproductive health, and gender issues. Maintaining collaborative relationships with all programme and project staff at the Country Office is also a key aspect of this role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: A. Supporting the Programme Team in the Country Office by assisting in the preparation of programme work plans, budgets, and proposals; performing data entry and updates in the UNFPA Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, particularly Quantum and Quantum Plus, related to programme activities; monitoring programme activities and expenditures against approved work plans and budgets; collecting, compiling, and analyzing programme data for reporting and decision-making; preparing draft reports, presentations, and other programme-related documents; facilitating communication and coordination with implementing partners, government counterparts, and other stakeholders; maintaining accurate and up-to-date programme files and documentation; providing logistical support for programme events; and managing travel and visa requirements. B. Research and Knowledge Management Sharing Support by performing research assistance duties, summarizing information, and drafting contributions to reports and publications; identifying sources and compiling data for documents and guidelines; contributing to the maintenance of information on the UNFPA intranet; and assisting in archiving and filing. C. Programme Operational Support by processing programme-related financial transactions, ensuring compliance with UNFPA financial rules; reviewing incoming correspondence and preparing necessary information for replies; supporting procurement activities; standing in for other programme team members as required; and producing monthly financial reports on programmes or projects. The Programme Assistant may also carry out any other duties as required by UNFPA leadership.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires completed Secondary Level Education as a minimum. A first-level university degree in finance, public health, population, economics, demography, or other related social sciences fields is preferable. Candidates should possess knowledge of results-based management, asset and financial management, and have good writing and communication skills. Proficiency in current office software applications and corporate IT systems is also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed Secondary Level Education, with a preference for those holding a first-level university degree in relevant fields such as finance, public health, population, economics, demography, or other related social sciences. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the programmes and the data management involved in the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in social sector or programme development. This experience should ideally include knowledge of results-based management and asset and financial management, which are critical for the effective execution of the Programme Assistant's responsibilities. Strong writing and communication skills are also necessary to fulfill the role effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Tetum is required for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of Portuguese would be considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package that includes 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 applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. 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, regardless of personal characteristics and 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.