Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is dedicated to promoting sustainable development of human settlements and policies that ensure adequate housing for all. Established to address urbanization challenges, UN-Habitat works with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to create inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban environments. The organization operates globally, with a significant focus on Latin America and the Caribbean through its Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. UN-Habitat has been actively involved in Brazil, collaborating with local governments to implement effective urban policies and initiatives that enhance living conditions in urban areas, particularly in marginalized communities.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Periferia Viva Maré Project, which aims to improve living conditions in peripheral territories of Rio de Janeiro. This position involves close collaboration with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams, ensuring that project activities are planned, executed, and monitored effectively. The Programme Assistant will be responsible for providing administrative and logistical support, assisting in the preparation of technical reports and documentation, and facilitating communication among various stakeholders. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to the principles of sustainable urban development, as the assistant will contribute to the overarching goals of the Habitat Agenda and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: 1) Providing administrative and logistical support for project activities, such as organizing meetings, missions, and events. 2) Assisting in the preparation and consolidation of technical reports, presentations, and documentation for both internal and external stakeholders. 3) Supporting coordination and communication among various stakeholders involved in the project. 4) Maintaining updated records and filing systems related to project activities, ensuring timely documentation of results achieved. 5) Performing other related duties as required to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the project. 6) Completing all required training and courses, including the BSAFE security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security course from UNDSS, during the first month of employment. 7) Familiarizing oneself with United Nations security mechanisms and complying with them according to the Framework of Accountability for the United Nations Security Management System.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Geography, Social Work, Social Sciences, or related fields. Alternatively, candidates with an additional three years of relevant experience beyond the educational requirement will also be considered. The position requires a minimum of two years of experience in relevant areas, particularly in research related to favelas, community mobilization, and teamwork. Experience in the social sector and supporting fieldwork, especially in vulnerable areas, is desirable. Previous experience working with the United Nations is also considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate good computer skills, particularly in Windows and Office packages, and have experience with online event and conference tools.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Geography, Social Work, Social Sciences, or related fields is required. Candidates with additional relevant experience may substitute for formal education. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of urban development and social policies that the Programme Assistant will engage with.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience, particularly in areas related to community mobilization, research in favelas, and teamwork. Experience in the social sector, especially in supporting fieldwork in vulnerable areas, is highly desirable. Previous experience with the United Nations or similar organizations will be an advantage, as it provides familiarity with the operational context and expectations of the role.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication in the Regional Office. Working knowledge of English is desirable, and knowledge of French is also beneficial, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in Spanish is an asset, given the regional focus of the office.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and is expected to last for two months. The consultant will receive a monthly allowance upon approval of their activity reports by the Head of Brazil Office. This appointment is on a local basis, and only nationals from Brazil or external candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The contract's extension is contingent upon the availability of funds and performance, and it is not automatically guaranteed. All applications must be submitted in English and include a cover memo, educational background, professional experience, and other relevant information. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.