Associate Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, led by an empowered UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO's recalibration in 2026 aimed to optimize support for the 2030 Agenda, emphasizing data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The UN RCO in Dili, Timor Leste, is tasked with supporting the country's development priorities and SDG attainment.

Job Overview:
The Associate Communications Officer is responsible for maintaining relationships with management, other communications specialists, and various stakeholders to facilitate information exchange and coordinate communication activities. This role involves supporting reporting efforts, providing updates on activities, and assisting in training related to communications. The officer will also engage with external counterparts, including UN agencies, government officials, civil society, and media, to build partnerships and coordinate activities that enhance information integrity. The position is integral to organizing events and campaigns that promote the UN's work and engage target audiences effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for gathering insights from media monitoring to inform communication strategies, implementing strategies that raise awareness and engagement, drafting narratives for diverse audiences, and fostering relationships with media outlets. Responsibilities include developing media lines, planning press events, acting as a spokesperson, creating compelling content, producing communications products, and coordinating strategic partnerships. The officer will also engage in outreach and advocacy campaigns, create content for radio and podcasts, and maintain expertise in emerging communication technologies. Additionally, the officer will monitor and analyze communication strategies' effectiveness and contribute to data collection and analysis for informed decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess critical thinking and public speaking skills, knowledge of digital design, and the ability to analyze data for decision-making. They should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication, and strong planning and organizing skills. The role requires the ability to incorporate gender perspectives and ensure equal participation in all areas of work. The officer must be able to tailor communication to various audiences and maintain confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, digital communications, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in developing and implementing communications strategies is required. Candidates should have demonstrated knowledge of strategic communications principles and practices, as well as the ability to draft clear messages for diverse audiences. Experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable, along with skills in developing creative content and conducting research.

Languages:
English and Tetum are required for this position, with Portuguese being desirable. Candidates must meet the UN Language Framework's minimum required levels for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for one year, with no expectation of renewal. The position is open to nationals of Timor-Leste only, and candidates must be of the nationality of the country where the position is located. The recruitment process is subject to budgetary and intergovernmental approvals. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.