Programme Management Assistant

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Programme Management Assistant
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), which is a part of the United Nations system. The OHCHR was established to promote and protect human rights globally, ensuring that international human rights standards are upheld. The organization works in various countries, engaging with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to address human rights issues. The OHCHR employs a diverse workforce and operates in numerous countries, focusing on a wide range of human rights concerns, including civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the Administrative Support Unit of the Human Rights Inquiries Branch. This position involves assisting in the coordination of program and project planning, monitoring the status of proposals, and ensuring that all relevant documentation is prepared for review and approval. The assistant will compile and summarize data on specific programs and projects, review project documents for compliance with rules and procedures, and serve as a focal point for administrative coordination. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to facilitate the successful implementation of human rights initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: assisting in the coordination of program/project planning and preparation; monitoring the status of proposals and documentation; compiling and summarizing information on programs/projects; reviewing project documents for completeness and compliance; verifying budget revisions and availability of funds; serving as a focal point for administrative coordination; compiling data on project delivery; drafting correspondence and reports; providing general office assistance; and performing other duties as assigned. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of five years of experience in program or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the minimum experience requirement is reduced to three years. At least three years of experience in the United Nations Common System or a similar international organization is desirable. Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, such as Umoja or Inspira, is also considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, candidates with a first-level university degree or higher will have a reduced experience requirement, making them more competitive for the role. This indicates that while formal education is important, relevant work experience is equally valued in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in program or project administration, with at least three years of that experience ideally gained within the United Nations or a similar international organization. Candidates with a first-level university degree can qualify with three years of experience. This experience should include familiarity with administrative processes, project management, and budget oversight, as well as the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French, another official UN language, is considered an advantage, as it enhances communication within the organization and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for six months, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of funds. It is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in Geneva. Selected candidates from outside the duty station will be responsible for their relocation expenses. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The position may provide an opportunity for the successful applicant to gain new work experience, but it is important to note that this is a temporary assignment with no implications for future employment in the same role. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.