Programme Management Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Programme Management Unit of the Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG) within the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. The DSDG serves as the global secretariat for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is dedicated to supporting Member States in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This includes providing policy analysis, capacity development, intergovernmental support, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing. The organization is committed to fostering sustainable development globally and operates in various countries to achieve these goals. For more information, you can visit their website at https://sdgs.un.org/.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the planning and implementation of activities related to the United Nations Regional Centre for the Sustainable Development Goals for Central Asia and Afghanistan. Reporting to the Senior Programme Management Officer, the assistant will be involved in a variety of tasks including research, data analysis, and project coordination. The role requires a proactive approach to managing project proposals, budgets, and evaluations, ensuring that all necessary documentation is completed and submitted in a timely manner. The assistant will also collaborate with various stakeholders to facilitate effective communication and reporting on project progress. This position is essential for ensuring that the organization's objectives are met and that projects are executed efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Assistant will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: assisting in the planning and implementation of projects, conducting research and analysis on specific programs, coordinating project proposals and budget preparations, monitoring and evaluating project implementation, and maintaining accurate records of project activities. The assistant will also draft reports and correspondence related to project administration, provide guidance to junior staff, and assist in the organization of international conferences and events. Additionally, the role involves liaising with various organizational units to resolve issues related to project implementation, preparing and updating internal databases, and ensuring compliance with budgetary guidelines. The assistant will also be responsible for visualizing and updating information materials such as web pages or brochures, and performing any other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with preference given to those holding a first-level degree, which may reduce the required years of experience. A minimum of seven years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning systems such as SAP or Umoja is essential, as is experience in organizing international events and supporting recruitment processes. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills and the ability to monitor and report on project performance effectively.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level degree may be considered with fewer years of experience. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of project management and administration within the context of the United Nations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related field. Candidates should have experience with enterprise resource planning systems, such as SAP or Umoja, and should be familiar with the organization of international conferences and events. Experience in monitoring and reporting on project implementation is also desirable, along with at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related area.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and knowledge of French would be considered an asset for this role. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for detailed proficiency requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is limited to the Department of Economic and Social Affairs and is project-funded with a finite duration. External candidates selected for this position will undergo an initial probationary period of one year under a fixed-term appointment. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, budgetary approval, and extension of the mandate. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its recruitment process.