Technical Cooperation Assistant

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Technical Cooperation Assistant
Location: Beirut
Country: Lebanon
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) is a regional commission of the United Nations, established to promote economic and social development in the Arab region. ESCWA operates under the supervision of the United Nations Economic and Social Council and comprises 21 member countries in Western Asia and North Africa. The organization aims to provide a framework for the formulation and harmonization of sectoral policies, facilitate coordination among member states, and serve as a hub for expertise and knowledge sharing. ESCWA collaborates with various UN divisions, specialized agencies, and regional organizations, including the League of Arab States and the Gulf Cooperation Council, to enhance regional cooperation and development.

Job Overview:
The Technical Cooperation Assistant plays a crucial role within the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) at ESCWA, directly reporting to the Secretary of the Commission. This position is responsible for providing administrative support in the planning and implementation of complex departmental programs and projects. The assistant will draft and review correspondence related to program administration, assist in budget preparation and analysis, and monitor the status of various programs. The role requires a proactive approach to research, data analysis, and coordination of activities, ensuring that all project documents are completed and submitted for approval. The assistant will also be involved in organizing meetings, maintaining files and databases, and providing guidance to junior staff, contributing to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the office.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Cooperation Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: drafting and reviewing external correspondence and communications; providing administrative assistance for program/project planning and implementation; researching and analyzing data on technical cooperation initiatives; coordinating programs and monitoring their status; assisting in budget proposal preparation and analysis; monitoring and evaluating programs/projects; collaborating with program/project managers on performance reporting; supporting the implementation of activities through extensive liaison with various organizational units; preparing and maintaining files and internal databases; organizing meetings and handling logistical arrangements; providing training and guidance to new or junior staff; and assisting with data presentations and knowledge management efforts. The assistant will also be expected to perform other duties as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, with a first-level university degree in Business, Public Administration, Development, Social Studies, or related fields being desirable. The position requires a strong understanding of internal policies and procedures related to program/project administration, implementation, and evaluation. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently. A commitment to gender equality and the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment are also essential qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, a first-level university degree in relevant fields such as Business, Public Administration, Development, or Social Studies is highly desirable and may enhance a candidate's prospects for selection.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of experience in program or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area. This requirement is reduced to five years for candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher. Additionally, experience in a politically sensitive or diplomatic setting is considered desirable, further emphasizing the need for candidates to navigate complex environments effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, as these are the working languages of ESCWA. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding, while knowledge is defined as 'confident' in at least two of these areas.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for an initial period of 364 days, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability, continued need for the position, and satisfactory performance. The role is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in Lebanon. Selected candidates will be responsible for their own relocation expenses and arrangements. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization adheres to strict standards of integrity and efficiency in its recruitment process, ensuring that all candidates are evaluated fairly and without discrimination.