Information Systems Officer

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Position Title: Information Systems Officer
Location: Antananarivo
Country: Madagascar
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

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 development-friendly integration of developing countries into the world economy. The organization operates in over 190 countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to fostering sustainable development and economic growth.

Job Overview:
The Information Systems Officer will play a crucial role in providing technical assistance and support to the National Customs Services (NCS) and National Project Teams (NPT) under the supervision of the ASYCUDA Regional Coordinator for French-speaking countries in Africa. 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 responsible 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 training materials, conduct training sessions for staff, and ensure the implementation of disaster recovery plans. The position also includes writing reports and papers on systems-related topics and providing guidance to junior staff and consultants.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Information Systems Officer include: managing projects involving feasibility studies, systems analysis, design, development, and implementation of new systems; developing detailed system specifications and user documentation; providing specialized advice to NCSs and NPTs; maintaining and enhancing existing ASYCUDA user systems; troubleshooting and providing user support; developing and maintaining ASYCUDA proprietary programs; organizing and performing unit and integrated testing; developing customs training materials and conducting training sessions; developing disaster recovery plans; participating in writing reports and papers on systems-related topics; and providing guidance to junior staff and consultants.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of information technology and 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 is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to independently maintain assigned systems and develop innovative solutions to a wide range of issues. The ability to incorporate gender perspectives and ensure equal participation of women and men in all areas of work is also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in computer science, information systems, mathematics, statistics, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university 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, development, 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 and technical ICT programming with Java, Linux, and Oracle is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in French (both oral and written) is required. Knowledge of English is desirable, and knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for four 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 it may be restricted to 'internal candidates' who have been recruited through a competitive examination. Staff members who will reach the mandatory age of separation within the duration of the temporary need period are not eligible to apply. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. An impeccable record for integrity and professional ethical standards is essential.