Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is a regional development arm of the United Nations Secretariat. Established to promote sustainable and inclusive development and regional connectivity in the Asian and Pacific region, ESCAP supports its member states through policy-oriented research, normative support, technical assistance, and capacity building. The organization operates across multiple countries in the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on addressing development priorities and adapting to the changing needs of its member states. ESCAP's mission is to foster economic and social development, enhance regional cooperation, and facilitate the sharing of knowledge and best practices among its members.

Job Overview:
The Programme Assistant position is integral to the Capacity Development and Partnerships Section within the Strategy and Programme Management Division (SPMD) of ESCAP. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Programme Officer and the Chief of the Capacity Development and Partnerships Section, contributing to the planning and implementation of complex departmental programmes and projects. The role involves a variety of tasks including research, data analysis, project coordination, budget preparation, and monitoring and evaluation of programmes. The Programme Assistant will also be responsible for drafting reports, maintaining databases, and ensuring compliance with ESCAP's project management guidelines. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve organizational goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Assistant will perform a wide range of duties including: assisting in project planning and implementation activities; researching and compiling data on specific programmes; coordinating programme/project proposals and monitoring their status; preparing and analyzing budget proposals; monitoring and evaluating programmes/projects; collaborating with programme/project managers on performance reporting; drafting programme/project summaries; serving as a focal point for Umoja Analytics implementation; maintaining files and databases; drafting correspondence related to programme/project administration; supporting the ESCAP Visiting Fellows Programme; assisting with data collection and analysis; and performing other duties as assigned. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree may be accepted in lieu of two years of required experience. The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in programme or project operations and administration, including budgeting and technical cooperation. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as Umoja/SAP is desirable, as is familiarity with recruitment tools and the United Nations Common System’s Human Resources and Financial Rules and Regulations. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. A first-level university degree may be accepted in lieu of two years of required experience, indicating that candidates with higher education may have a competitive advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in programme or project operations and administration. If the candidate holds a first-level university degree, a minimum of five years of experience is acceptable. Relevant experience should include programme/project budgeting and technical cooperation, with a preference for candidates who have practical experience in technical cooperation planning and implementation.

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 UN official language, such as French, is considered an advantage and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning applicants must be authorized to work in Thailand. The initial appointment is for a period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from individuals regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion, or disability. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.