Special Assistant

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Special Assistant
Location: Malakal
Country: South Sudan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) was established to support the peace process in South Sudan and to protect civilians. The mission operates under the mandate of the United Nations security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council and is focused on preventing a return to civil war, building durable peace, and supporting inclusive governance. UNMISS has a significant presence in South Sudan, with a ceiling of 17,000 troops and 2,101 police personnel. The mission emphasizes the importance of humanitarian assistance and the protection of human rights, and it operates in a challenging environment classified as a hardship duty station.

Job Overview:
The Special Assistant position is located within the State Coordinator Section of UNMISS in Malakal, which is classified as a non-family duty station. The role involves direct supervision by the Head of Field Office and requires the individual to monitor and analyze political developments at the local level. The Special Assistant will be responsible for advising the Head of Field Office on the implications of these developments on the office's work. This position also entails managing day-to-day operations of the UNMISS Field Office, coordinating activities, and providing substantive and administrative support for meetings and events. The Special Assistant will play a crucial role in ensuring effective communication and coordination among various stakeholders, including UN personnel and local authorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Special Assistant will undertake a variety of tasks, including monitoring political developments, managing daily operations of the Field Office, coordinating events, and providing administrative support for meetings. Specific duties include tracking political milestones, overseeing briefing notes and reports, organizing meetings, and facilitating communication between UNMISS personnel and external partners. The role also involves preparing reports on field trips, maintaining databases for operational planning, and promoting national knowledge and capacity through volunteerism. The Special Assistant will be expected to apply an Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) perspective in all activities and to document achievements related to volunteerism for development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Special Assistant position should possess strong analytical and reporting skills, as well as the ability to coordinate effectively across various disciplines. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work in a challenging environment. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to promoting national capacity and volunteerism, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for the Special Assistant position. Candidates should have a degree in political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, depending on the level of responsibility associated with the position.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of several years of relevant experience in political analysis, project management, or a related field. Experience working in a humanitarian or peacekeeping context, particularly in conflict-affected areas, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the political landscape of South Sudan and previous experience with UN operations would be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages spoken in South Sudan would be considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the role.

Additional Notes:
The Special Assistant position is classified as a non-family duty station, indicating that the role may involve living in challenging conditions. The position may be full-time, and candidates should be prepared for the demands of working in a high-pressure environment. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UN standards, and the role may involve international recruitment.