Administrative Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP's Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) helps implement UNEP's programs by initiating, coordinating, and catalyzing regional and sub-regional cooperation and action in response to environmental challenges, opportunities, and emergencies. The organization is dedicated to fostering sustainable development through sound environmental practices and policies, and it operates in multiple countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on various environmental issues.

Job Overview:
The Administrative Officer position is crucial for the effective management of human resources, budget, finance, procurement, and general administration within the Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC). The role involves coordinating human resource activities such as recruitment, placement, and performance appraisal, ensuring compliance with UN rules and regulations. The Administrative Officer will also lead the preparation and implementation of the work programme, monitor financial resources, and provide guidance on budgetary matters. Additionally, the position requires overseeing procurement processes, ensuring timely travel arrangements, and maintaining the overall functionality of the office environment. The Administrative Officer will work closely with various stakeholders to ensure that the office operates efficiently and effectively, contributing to UNEP's mission of promoting sustainable development and environmental protection.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Human Resource Management: Coordinate human resource activities including recruitment, placement, performance appraisal, and training. Provide guidance on staffing matters and manage approval processes in Inspira.
• Budget and Finance: Lead the preparation and implementation of the work programme, monitor budget utilization, and review programme reports. Provide inputs on extra-budgetary project budgets and conduct due diligence assessments of implementing partners.
• Procurement: Oversee procurement processes, prepare procurement plans, and manage vendor contracts. Conduct bid evaluations and negotiate with suppliers.
• Travel Management: Ensure efficient travel arrangements, monitor travel claims, and negotiate corporate rates with service providers.
• General Administration: Review departmental space requirements, manage office technology needs, and support IT-related matters. Collect and analyze data for decision-making and reporting.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Finance Management Officer and represent the Regional Office in inter-agency meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of administrative, budgetary, financial, and human resources policies and procedures. They should demonstrate the ability to apply UN administrative rules and regulations effectively. The role requires excellent analytical and evaluative skills, as well as the ability to identify issues and formulate recommendations. Candidates should also exhibit professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender equality in the workplace. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for building productive partnerships with clients and stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, or a related area is required. Alternatively, a first-level degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the specified fields with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in administration, finance, accounting, human resources management, or a related field is required. Experience in data analytics or a related area is desirable, as is familiarity with UN administrative, financial, and human resources rules and regulations. Candidates should have experience in the administration and financial monitoring of agreements with implementing partners.

Languages:
English and Spanish are required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages at UN Level III. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for 364 days and may be subject to extension. The selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, and the United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its workforce. The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.