Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to promote world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. With a presence in over 190 countries, UNESCO aims to build peace in the minds of men and women through education, science, culture, communication, and information. The organization operates with a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees, working across various sectors to foster sustainable development and cultural diversity.

Job Overview:
The Project Officer position is a critical role within UNESCO's Culture Sector in Brazil, responsible for overseeing and managing various cultural heritage projects. The incumbent will work under the authority of the Director and Representative of UNESCO in Brazil, and will be directly supervised by the Coordinator of the Culture Section. This role requires a technical specialist who will engage in actions and projects related to UNESCO’s Culture programme, focusing on cultural heritage, museums, and collections. The Project Officer will be expected to provide technical input on cultural heritage issues, support the preparation of action proposals, and manage partnerships with Brazilian authorities, the private sector, and civil society. The position also involves evaluating and monitoring project implementation, ensuring compliance with UNESCO's rules and regulations, and disseminating best practices in cultural heritage management. The successful candidate will play a vital role in promoting and protecting cultural diversity and heritage in Brazil, contributing to the overall mission of UNESCO.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: providing technical input on cultural heritage issues; participating in identifying cultural policy needs; supporting the preparation of action proposals and project documents; seeking partnerships and preparing technical documents for cooperation agreements; designing, managing, and implementing Regular Programme activities; evaluating and monitoring project implementation; systematizing evaluations and preparing document revisions; providing technical support for drawing terms of reference; participating in sector and inter-sector planning processes; disseminating good practices and results; organizing meetings, workshops, and conferences; managing the completion of duties conducted by Programme Assistants; and supporting communications with Headquarters and Regional Offices. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (equivalent to a Master's or Post-graduate studies) in human or social sciences, international relations, management, or culture-related fields. A desirable qualification includes post-graduate research in the field of culture. Candidates should have a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in applying theoretical knowledge in cultural projects, particularly in cultural heritage and museums. Experience in managing technical cooperation projects at both national and international levels, preferably within multilateral agencies, is essential. Familiarity with UNESCO or UN operations will be considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as human or social sciences, international relations, management, or culture-related disciplines. Additional specialized training or courses related to culture will be highly valued. Candidates with a strong academic foundation in cultural studies or related areas will be preferred.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of professional experience in the cultural sector, specifically in planning and implementing programs and projects with governmental and non-governmental institutions. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing technical cooperation projects, including activities and expenditures, and should be familiar with the workings of international organizations. Experience in procurement processes within the UN System or other international cooperation organizations will be highly regarded.

Languages:
Proficiency in Portuguese and English is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of French and/or Spanish will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in multilingual environments and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a service contract lasting 12 months, with the possibility of renewal based on project funding and satisfactory performance. The working hours are Monday to Thursday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. The monthly remuneration for this position is BRL 16,368.99, paid in local currency. Candidates should be aware that the recruitment process may include assessments, interviews, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply. All applications will be treated with confidentiality, and UNESCO maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment.