Contingent Owned Equipment (COE) Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
MONUSCO/MONUC was established in 1999 under the auspices of the UN Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO). The mission's primary objective is to support the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in protecting civilians and stabilizing the region. This involves a comprehensive approach that includes reducing threats from armed groups and addressing violence against civilians, including sexual and gender-based violence. The organization aims to establish functional and accountable state institutions, including security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and judicial systems, and to enhance understanding of human rights violations in the DRC. MONUSCO operates in a challenging environment, focusing on informed policy-making and risk assessment to improve the effectiveness of security forces and operations.

Job Overview:
The position of Contingent Owned Equipment (COE) Assistant involves working under the direct supervision of the Chief of COE. The primary responsibilities include serving as a point of contact for contingent personnel, conducting inspections of formed units to ensure compliance with agreements, and maintaining databases related to COE. The role requires providing advice on COE-related matters and overseeing the issuance of UN-owned equipment. The COE Assistant is also expected to engage in capacity development for national staff and partners through mentoring and training. This position is critical in ensuring that the operations of the UN mission are conducted effectively and in accordance with established protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The COE Assistant will have a variety of duties, including:

• Acting as the main contact for contingent personnel regarding daily operational matters.
• Conducting inspections of formed units upon arrival, during operations, and prior to repatriation to ensure compliance with the MOU.
• Raising inspection verification reports in the UCM database and processing them for approval.
• Advising formed units and mission technical sections on COE/MOU matters and providing recommendations for rectifying non-compliance issues.
• Maintaining inventories of COE within the UCM database for all assigned units.
• Overseeing the issuance of UN-owned equipment and services to ensure accurate reporting in verification documents.
• Maintaining the COE database and ensuring its accuracy.
• Engaging in capacity development activities for national staff and partners through coaching and training.
• Performing any additional duties as assigned by the Chief COE Unit or Team Leader.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong client orientation, effective communication skills, creativity, and a commitment to ethics and integrity. They should demonstrate professionalism, respect for diversity, and the ability to work collaboratively in teams. The role requires planning and organizing skills to manage tasks effectively in a challenging environment.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should have a degree in a field related to operations management, logistics, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in peacekeeping operations or humanitarian assistance may be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of several years of experience in operations coordination, logistics, or a related field, preferably within a UN or international organization context. Experience in conducting inspections and managing databases is highly desirable. Familiarity with the operational environment in the DRC or similar regions will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as it is the primary working language in the DRC. Knowledge of additional languages such as Lingala, Kikongo, Tshiluba, or Swahili is considered a valuable asset and may enhance communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a non-family duty station in Bunia, with assignments expected to last until 30 June 2025, with the possibility of extension. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to work in challenging living conditions typical of developing countries. The position may involve relocation to various duty stations, and candidates should be aware of the security situation and medical requirements, including vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UN standards, and there may be opportunities for international recruitment.