Programme/Project Operations Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and aims to deliver effective strategic guidance and high-impact action in support of the transition towards climate stability. The organization is guided by ambition, innovation, credible science, and alignment to global climate goals and the needs of individual countries. UNEP operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation, enhancing implementation capacity, providing data and knowledge, and building resilience.

Job Overview:
The position is located in the Climate Change Division, specifically within the Mitigation Branch, Global Funds Mitigation & Transparency Section. The incumbent will be responsible for assisting in the coordination of programme/project planning and preparation work for various initiatives. This includes monitoring the status of proposals, reviewing documents for compliance with rules and procedures, preparing legal agreements, and ensuring proper budget management. The role requires extensive liaison with various organizational units to facilitate project operations, including reviewing reports from executing partners and preparing financial closures. The assistant will also be involved in data collection and analysis, preparing presentations and reports, and drafting correspondence related to budget issues. This position is crucial for supporting UNEP's mission to promote sustainable development and effective policies for climate stability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme/Project Operations Assistant include:

• Assisting in the coordination of programme/project planning and preparation work, monitoring the status of proposals and documentation.
• Reviewing programme/project documents for completeness and compliance, identifying inconsistencies, and distributing approved documents.
• Preparing legal agreements and ensuring compliance with UNEP clearance processes.
• Assisting in budget revisions, verifying fund availability, and ensuring necessary approvals.
• Monitoring expenditures against approved budgets and preparing necessary adjustments.
• Coordinating programme/project implementation activities and liaising with various organizational units.
• Reviewing reports from executing partners and preparing financial closures.
• Collecting and analyzing data for presentations and reports.
• Drafting correspondence on budget-related issues and preparing periodic reports. 1
• Organizing meetings and consultations, preparing briefing notes, and following up as required. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a high school diploma or equivalent. Relevant training or qualifications in business administration, finance, or accounting is desirable. Candidates should possess knowledge of programme and project management processes, including budget preparation, financial monitoring, and compliance review. Professionalism, teamwork, and planning and organizing skills are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Additional qualifications in business administration, finance, or accounting are desirable and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of five years of progressive experience in administration, finance, or budget support for project operations. This requirement is reduced to three years for candidates with a first-level university degree. Experience in analyzing project financial data, grant management, and donor reporting is essential. Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as UMOJA and knowledge of financial rules and regulations of the United Nations or similar organizations is required. Experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of Spanish and Portuguese is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The appointment is contingent upon local recruitment, and applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in the duty station. Staff members subject to local recruitment are not eligible for allowances or benefits applicable to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.