Programme Management Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations, established in 194

• Its mission is to contribute to the economic and social development of the region by designing, monitoring, and evaluating public policies, providing advisory services, expertise, and training to governments, and supporting regional and international cooperation and coordination activities. ECLAC operates in various countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing on sustainable development and inclusive growth. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the unique challenges faced by the region, and it emphasizes the importance of gender equality and the empowerment of women in all its initiatives. For more information, visit www.eclac.org.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the Natural Resources Division at ECLAC, specifically for the project DA 2427X: 'Sustainable and Inclusive Energy Transition in Latin America and the Caribbean.' This position involves providing comprehensive administrative and programmatic support, ensuring that project planning and implementation are executed efficiently. The assistant will be responsible for monitoring project proposals, compiling and summarizing data, reviewing project documents for compliance, and serving as a focal point for administrative coordination. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with various organizational units. The assistant will also be involved in drafting reports, managing correspondence, and assisting with data analysis and presentations, contributing to informed decision-making and knowledge management within the division.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Management Assistant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Assisting in the coordination of programme/project planning and preparation work for medium-sized and complex components of departmental initiatives.
• Monitoring the status of programme/project proposals and ensuring the receipt of relevant documentation for review and approval.
• Compiling, summarizing, and presenting basic information/data on specific programmes/projects and related topics.
• Reviewing project documents, particularly cost plans and budgets, for completeness and compliance with relevant rules and procedures prior to submission for final approval.
• Identifying inconsistencies in project documents and distributing them to relevant parties upon approval.
• Reviewing budget revisions, verifying the availability of funds, and ensuring necessary approvals are obtained.
• Serving as the focal point for administrative coordination of programme/project implementation activities, involving extensive liaison with diverse organizational units.
• Compiling and entering data on project delivery, drafting status reports, and identifying shortfalls in delivery or budget overruns.
• Drafting correspondence on budget-related issues and preparing periodic reports, briefing notes, and statistical summaries. 1
• Providing general office assistance, responding to complex information requests, and maintaining files and records. 1
• Organizing meetings and workshops, and handling routine administrative tasks. 1
• Assisting with data collection and analysis, and preparing presentations and reports for information sharing. 1
• Providing guidance and training to new or junior staff members. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, completed supplemental technical studies or training courses in social, economic, or administrative programs are desirable. Further training in programme management or related fields, as well as bilingual secretarial functions, is also advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of internal policies and procedures related to programme/project administration and implementation, as well as technical cooperation and budgeting. The ability to work well with figures, conduct basic research, and gather information from standard sources is essential. Candidates should exhibit professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Candidates must clearly indicate in their Applicant Profile (AP) relevant information confirming completion of high school. Additional qualifications in the form of technical studies or training in social, economic, or administrative programs are desirable, as well as training in programme management or related fields. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may have their minimum experience requirement reduced.

Experience:
At least five years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or a related area is required. For candidates with a first-level university degree or higher, the minimum years of relevant experience is reduced to three years. Experience in general office support, bilingual secretarial roles, or related areas is desirable. Additionally, one year or more of experience in data analytics or a related area is considered advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is required for this position, as these are the working languages of ECLAC. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is an advantage, as the United Nations Secretariat operates in multiple languages, including French. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until August 202

• If the selected candidate is a staff member from the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be administered as a temporary assignment. The post is funded with extrabudgetary resources, and the extension of appointment will be subject to the availability of funds. The appointment for positions in the General Service category is done on a local basis, meaning applicants must be authorized to work in Chile. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to follow all instructions provided in the online recruitment platform. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.