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 support governments and local authorities in implementing the Habitat Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, UN-Habitat works to transform urban areas into safer, more inclusive, and resilient places. The organization operates globally, with a significant focus on Latin America and the Caribbean, and has a regional office based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. UN-Habitat collaborates with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, and the private sector, to foster sustainable urban development and improve living conditions in urban areas, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Periferia Viva Maré Project, which aims to enhance living conditions in peripheral territories of Rio de Janeiro. This position involves providing administrative and logistical support for project activities, including organizing meetings and events, preparing technical reports, and facilitating communication among stakeholders. The Programme Assistant will work closely with the UN-Habitat operational and technical teams to ensure effective project execution and monitoring. The role requires a proactive approach to managing project documentation and maintaining updated records, ensuring that all activities align with the objectives of the project and the broader goals of UN-Habitat.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: 1) Providing administrative and logistical support for project planning and execution, including 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, within 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, Sociology, Law, Economics, 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. A minimum of three years of experience in the specified fields, particularly in research in favelas, community mobilization, and teamwork in Brazil, is required. Experience in the social sector and supporting fieldwork, especially in vulnerable areas, is desirable. Previous experience working with the United Nations is also a plus.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as International Relations, Geography, Sociology, Law, Economics, Social Work, or Social Sciences. Candidates with additional relevant experience may substitute for formal education. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of urban development and social policies in Brazil.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in fields related to urban development, social work, or community engagement, particularly within the context of Brazil. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in research, community mobilization, and teamwork, especially in favelas or similar environments. Experience in the public sector and with vulnerable populations is highly desirable, as is any previous work experience with the United Nations or similar international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and project beneficiaries. Additionally, working knowledge of English is desirable, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in Spanish is also beneficial, given that it is the working language of the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
This position is based locally in Brazil, and only nationals or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The contract duration is expected to be one month, with the possibility of extension subject to funding availability and performance. The remuneration will be based on the LICA 1 UNOPS Salary Scale. 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, and all applications will be treated confidentially.