Programme Officer, GRIDS Programme and OPIOIDS Project

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Office of the Secretary (OS) of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB), which is part of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The INCB was established to monitor and promote the implementation of the United Nations drug control conventions. It operates as an independent body and is responsible for ensuring that the supply of controlled substances is available for medical and scientific purposes while preventing their diversion into illicit channels. The INCB Secretariat is an administrative entity that reports directly to the Board on substantive matters. The organization is dedicated to addressing issues related to drug control and aims to foster international cooperation in combating drug trafficking and abuse. The INCB operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, and civil society, to promote effective drug control measures.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing activities under the INCB’s Global Rapid Interdiction of Dangerous Substances (GRIDS) Programme and the Operational Partnerships to Interdict Opioids' Illicit Distribution and Sales (OPIOIDS) Project. This role requires the incumbent to ensure compliance with Board decisions and to develop operational mechanisms to address acute problems related to the illicit manufacture and trafficking of emerging synthetic drugs and opioids. The officer will monitor and analyze project development, identify issues, and initiate corrective actions while liaising with relevant parties. The position also involves mobilizing international action against the trafficking of synthetic drugs and opioids, overseeing programmatic and administrative tasks, and coordinating outreach activities. The officer will be expected to conduct research, analyze data, and prepare written outputs, including reports and presentations, while providing substantive backstopping to meetings and conferences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will undertake a variety of specific duties, including: developing and managing the GRIDS Programme and OPIOIDS Project; monitoring project implementation; analyzing relevant documents and reports; proposing international actions against drug trafficking; overseeing the operationalization of drug control reporting technologies; facilitating partnerships and consultative meetings; conducting training workshops; coordinating the work of other staff members; leading field missions; preparing budgets and performance reports; and collecting and analyzing data to identify trends. The officer will also be responsible for drafting background papers, organizing outreach activities, and ensuring effective communication with stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of international drug control theories and concepts, particularly regarding synthetic drugs. They should demonstrate professional competence and have strong analytical skills to identify and resolve issues. Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. Familiarity with information systems and electronic communication platforms is also required. The candidate should be able to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment and demonstrate a commitment to gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in social sciences, international relations, criminology, criminal justice, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, drug control law, chemistry, pharmacy, pharmacology, business administration, management, economics, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in similar fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in designing, managing, and implementing large complex programmes in drug control and crime prevention is required. Candidates should have experience in programme and project management at both national and international levels, with a proven track record of mobilizing donor resources. Experience in fostering public-private partnerships and promoting drug control efforts in collaboration with relevant stakeholders is essential. Desirable experience includes working with the United Nations system or similar international organizations, as well as expertise in data analytics.

Languages:
English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. French is also a working language, and proficiency in it would be considered an asset. Candidates should consult the UN Language Framework for details on the minimum required language skills.

Additional Notes:
The job does not specify the contract duration or seniority level. It is important to note that the position is full-time and based in Vienna, Austria. The role may involve international recruitment, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel as part of their duties. Compensation and benefits details are not provided in the job description.