Programme Management Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) is a specialized service of the United Nations established in 199

• It operates under the legislative mandates of both the General Assembly and the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council, focusing on eliminating threats posed by mines, explosive remnants of war, and improvised explosive devices. UNMAS coordinates United Nations mine action, leads operational responses at the country level, and supports the development of standards, policies, and norms. The organization is committed to ensuring safety and security in conflict-affected areas and operates in multiple countries worldwide, working closely with various stakeholders to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant position is situated within the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Threat Mitigation Advisory Team (TMAT) of UNMAS, specifically within the Office of Mine Action and Police (OMAP) under the Department of Peace Operations (DPO). The role involves assisting in the coordination of program and project planning, monitoring the status of proposals, and ensuring compliance with relevant rules and procedures. The assistant will compile and present data on specific programs, review project documents for completeness, and serve as a focal point for administrative coordination of project implementation activities. This includes liaising with various organizational units, managing travel arrangements, organizing workshops and meetings, and providing general office assistance. The Programme Management Assistant will also be responsible for drafting correspondence, preparing reports, and providing guidance to junior staff, thereby playing a crucial role in the effective functioning of the team and the successful delivery of projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Assisting in the coordination of program/project planning and preparation work for medium-sized and complex departmental initiatives.
• Monitoring the status of program/project proposals and ensuring the receipt of relevant documentation for review and approval.
• Compiling, summarizing, and presenting basic information/data on specific programs and related topics.
• Reviewing project documents, especially budgets, for completeness and compliance prior to final approval.
• Verifying the availability of funds and ensuring necessary approvals are obtained.
• Serving as the focal point for administrative coordination of program/project implementation activities, including travel arrangements, organization of workshops, meetings, and training activities.
• Compiling and entering data on project delivery, drafting status reports, and flagging financial or logistical risks to management.
• Providing general office assistance, responding to complex inquiries, and maintaining proper filing and record management.
• Guiding and training new or junior staff members. 1
• Assisting with data collection and analysis for reporting and decision-making purposes. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned by the Chief of Section.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of five years of experience in program or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. Candidates should have experience in monitoring expenditures, tracking budgets, and supporting financial reporting. Additionally, experience in organizing workshops, meetings, and training activities, as well as liaising with multiple stakeholders, is essential. Familiarity with the United Nations or similar international organizations is desirable, along with experience in using ERP systems such as Umoja. Experience in providing administrative support for procurement processes and asset management is also beneficial. A background in data analytics or related areas is a plus.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. There are no specific job-related qualifications listed beyond this educational requirement, indicating that practical experience and skills are prioritized over formal qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in program or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area. Candidates should have a proven track record in monitoring expenditures, tracking budgets, and supporting financial reporting. Experience in organizing logistics for workshops, meetings, and training activities is also necessary, as is the ability to liaise effectively with various stakeholders and service providers. Experience within the United Nations or similar international organizations is considered desirable, as is familiarity with ERP systems like Umoja. Additionally, having at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related field is advantageous.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum level of II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking as per the UN Language Framework. While French is not mandatory for this role, it is considered a valuable asset that could enhance communication and collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is financed for a one-year period, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. The role is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be residents of Kenya or within commuting distance of the office. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for international recruitment benefits. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and is committed to creating a respectful environment for all employees. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process. The organization does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.