Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, focusing on various aspects of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law, governance, and policy issues, particularly those related to Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). The organization operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to environmental sustainability and protection.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is situated within UNEP's Law Division, specifically in the OzonAction Global Compliance Assistance Programme (CAP) team. The role involves providing comprehensive support in planning and implementing complex departmental programmes and projects related to environmental law and governance. The incumbent will be responsible for data analysis, project delivery tracking, budget proposal preparation, and monitoring of programme/project performance. This position requires collaboration with various organizational units to ensure effective project implementation and adherence to budgetary guidelines. The Programme Assistant will also draft reports, maintain databases, and assist in the preparation of communication materials, thereby playing a crucial role in the overall success of the OzonAction initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Assistant include:

• Assisting in the planning and implementation of departmental programme/project initiatives, particularly in the OzonAction Branch.
• Conducting research, compiling, analyzing, and summarizing data on project delivery, and drafting status reports to identify shortfalls and budget overruns.
• Coordinating programme/project planning and preparation, monitoring the status of proposals, and ensuring timely submission of project documents for approval.
• Preparing and analyzing budget proposals, interpreting budget guidelines, and ensuring that all requisite information is included and justified.
• Monitoring and evaluating programmes/projects, categorizing and analyzing data related to accounting records, outputs, and resources utilized.
• Collaborating with programme/project managers on performance reporting and ensuring the accuracy of data submitted.
• Drafting programme/project summaries and coordinating the review and clearance process for reports.
• Serving as the focal point for coordination and monitoring of programme/project implementation activities, including recruitment, travel arrangements, and procurement.
• Maintaining and updating electronic and paper files, generating reports, and preparing correspondence related to programme/project administration. 1
• Assisting with data collection and analysis for presentations and reports, and updating information materials such as web pages or brochures. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a high level of professionalism and knowledge of internal policies, processes, and procedures related to programme and project administration. Candidates must demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to resolve issues, and a commitment to gender equality in the workplace. The role demands a collaborative approach to teamwork, with an emphasis on achieving organizational goals and valuing diverse perspectives. Candidates should also exhibit effective planning and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. While specific job-related qualifications are not detailed, candidates are expected to possess a foundational understanding of environmental law and governance, as well as project administration.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area. This requirement is reduced to five (5) years for those with a first-level university degree. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms such as SAP is essential, along with a background in project/grant management, budgeting, accounting, and financial management. Experience within the United Nations common system or similar international organizations is desirable, as is experience in data analytics or related fields.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language, such as French, is desirable but not mandatory. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: reading, writing, speaking, and understanding, while knowledge is defined as 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
This appointment is for an initial period of one (1) year and may be subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The selected candidate will receive a fixed-term appointment limited ('FTA Limited') in accordance with administrative instructions. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. Staff members in the General Service and related categories are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. All applicants must ensure that their application is complete and accurate, as this information will be used to assess their eligibility and suitability for the position.