Information Systems Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Programme in the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is dedicated to promoting the integration of developing countries into the global economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to fostering sustainable development and economic growth. UNCTAD's mission is to support developing countries in their efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable development through trade, investment, finance, and technology.

Job Overview:
The Information Systems Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance and support to the Ministry of Energy and Business, National Customs Services (NCS), and National Project Teams (NPT). This position involves managing projects that include feasibility studies, systems analysis, design, development, and implementation of moderately complex systems. The officer will also participate as a member of a development team, taking responsibility for major components of more complex systems. The role requires the development of detailed system specifications and user documentation for ASYCUDA systems, as well as providing specialized advice to NCSs and NPTs by analyzing user requirements and translating them into new applications. The officer will maintain, upgrade, and enhance existing ASYCUDA user systems, troubleshoot issues, and provide ongoing user support. Additionally, the officer will develop customs training materials, conduct training sessions, and ensure the implementation of disaster recovery plans. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and client orientation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage projects involving feasibility studies, systems analysis, design, development, and implementation of new systems, or participate as a member of a development team with responsibility for major components of complex systems.
• Develop detailed system specifications and user documentation for ASYCUDA systems.
• Provide specialized advice to NCSs and NPTs, analyzing user requirements and translating them into new applications.
• Maintain, upgrade, or enhance existing ASYCUDA user systems; troubleshoot and provide continuing user support.
• Develop and maintain ASYCUDA proprietary programs, ensuring appropriate data security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and access controls.
• Organize and perform unit and integrated testing, assisting users in acceptance testing.
• Develop customs training materials and train staff in assigned systems.
• Develop disaster recovery plans and ensure appropriate planning and training of responsible personnel.
• Participate in writing reports and papers on systems-related topics. 1
• Assist NPT in preparing technical documentation concerning ASYCUDA systems. 1
• Provide guidance to and may supervise new/junior staff and consultants.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in computer science, information systems, mathematics, statistics, or a related field.
• A first-level university degree in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• Knowledge of information technology/information management, particularly in systems analysis, database design, and programming related to customs and international trade digitalization.
• Proficiency in several high-level programming languages and significant exposure to programming and analysis, including structured/object-oriented design, relational systems, and scripting languages.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop and implement systems of moderate size/complexity.
• Knowledge of interactive systems and good understanding of the organization’s information infrastructure and IT strategy.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as computer science, information systems, mathematics, statistics, or a related area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in planning, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of computer information systems or related areas is required. Relevant experience in customs and international trade digitalization, system deployment, and support is essential. Experience in prototyping and implementing complex customs information technology systems, as well as organizing and delivering training courses within governmental organizations, is desirable. Experience working in an international environment, particularly within the United Nations system, is also advantageous. Proficiency in technical ICT programming with Java, Linux, and Oracle is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of additional languages such as Arabic, French, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin), or Spanish is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in these languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for six months. If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to candidates based at the duty station, and eligibility may be restricted to 'internal candidates' who have been recruited through a competitive examination. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.