Programme Assistant

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Position Title: Programme Assistant
Location: Harare
Country: Zimbabwe
Deadline Date: 10-NOV-2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO aims to build peace in the minds of men and women, focusing on education, natural sciences, social/human sciences, culture, communication, and information.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of two significant projects: the Facility for Action for Climate Empowerment to achieve the National Determined Contributions (FACE-NDC) project in Zambia and the Climate Smart Education Systems Strategic Capability (CSESSC) initiative in Zimbabwe and Malawi. This position requires effective planning, implementation, and monitoring of these projects, ensuring that UNESCO's objectives are met. The Programme Assistant will also support the Education Team in various ongoing programs, contributing to the overall mission of UNESCO in promoting education and sustainability in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks including producing costed activity-based work plans, monitoring budgets, and tracking financial expenditures to ensure effective implementation of the FACE-NDC project and the CSESSC initiative. The role includes coordinating meetings, events, and webinars, managing financial resources, and ensuring compliance with UNESCO's rules and policies. The Programme Assistant will also conduct financial reconciliations, prepare internal and external documents, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. Additionally, the position involves developing a database of reliable consultants, coordinating procurement processes, managing contracts, and ensuring timely deliverables from partners. The Programme Assistant will also maintain an updated e-filing system for documentation and support the team in reporting and evaluations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary, technical, or vocational education. A first-level degree in Business or Business Administration is preferred. At least eight years of relevant work experience in project/program implementation or administration is required. Candidates should possess excellent communication skills, experience in budgeting, and the ability to interact with diverse partners. Knowledge of procurement procedures and the ability to work in a multicultural environment are essential. Proficiency in MS Office and IT collaborative platforms is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed secondary education, with a preference for candidates holding a first-level degree in Business or Business Administration. Technical and vocational education may also be considered relevant.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of eight years of relevant work experience in project or program implementation and administration. Experience working with government partners and in international organizations, particularly within the UN System, is highly desirable. Familiarity with web-based IT business applications is also beneficial.

Languages:
A good knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is mandatory. Fluency in the local language is also required, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Project Appointment with a contract duration of one year. It is open to both internal and external candidates, but only those entitled to work in Zimbabwe may apply. The role is full-time, and the approximate annual starting salary is 29,307 USD, with additional benefits such as annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. UNESCO emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups, including individuals from minority and indigenous backgrounds.