ICT WAN Network and Infrastructure Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Austria Multi-Country Office (AUMCO) is part of the UNOPS Europe and Central Asia Region (ECR). Established to enable the achievement of Agenda 2030 and the Paris Agreement, AUMCO focuses on global programs and tailored interventions in the Balkans, South Caucasus, and Central Asia. The organization emphasizes infrastructure procurement, project management, HR and transactional services, grants management, and technical and advisory services. UNOPS in Albania was established in 2020 to support the government in implementing the Build Back Better approach, addressing challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2019 earthquake. The office collaborates closely with partners to enhance social and economic development, improve healthcare access, and transform medical services in Albania. UNOPS also engages in preserving cultural heritage and delivering advanced medical equipment to improve community welfare.

Job Overview:
The ICT WAN Network and Infrastructure Specialist will play a crucial role in the project titled 'Support to the Rule of Law through digital transformation: Advancing Case Management and Business Intelligence capabilities in Albania.' This project aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the judiciary institutions in Albania, aligning them with EU best practices. The specialist will be responsible for overseeing the ICT infrastructure components of the project, ensuring that the hardware and software needs are met for the successful implementation of digitalization initiatives within the General Prosecutor Offices (GPO) and the Information Technology Center for the Justice System. The role requires a solid background in ICT WAN networking and infrastructure, with a focus on public institutions. The specialist will work closely with the project manager and a team of local specialists, contributing to the procurement, setup, configuration, and transition of necessary equipment while ensuring optimal performance and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specialist's duties will include conducting a thorough assessment of the GPO's current IT environment, including hardware, software, network infrastructure, and security systems. They will identify strengths, weaknesses, and vulnerabilities in the existing WAN infrastructure and analyze its capacity to support new case management systems and business intelligence tools. The specialist will prepare a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations for improvement. They will propose upgrades to the GPO's IT infrastructure, develop a detailed technical plan for implementation, and collaborate with the project team to align with overall objectives. During the procurement phase, the specialist will prepare and validate hardware requirements specifications, review vendor proposals, and ensure compliance with national standards. They will provide technical support during the implementation of upgrades, monitor performance, and conduct training sessions for GPO IT staff on new infrastructure and security protocols.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of seven years of experience in IT WAN networking and infrastructure, with a strong understanding of hardware, software, and network protocols. Proven experience in designing, implementing, and managing WAN infrastructure is essential, along with experience in conducting IT infrastructure assessments and security audits. Desirable qualifications include excellent knowledge of security best practices and experience in procurement processes, particularly in preparing technical specifications for IT equipment and network infrastructure.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is required. A Master's degree in a relevant field is advantageous and may be considered equivalent to two years of required experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in IT WAN networking and infrastructure. Candidates should have a proven track record in designing, implementing, and managing WAN infrastructure, as well as experience in conducting assessments and proposing solutions for IT infrastructure.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Albanian is mandatory. Knowledge of another UN language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The contract type is Local ICA, Retainer, with a level of Local ICA 10 / International ICA

• The contract duration is up to 100 working days within two years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funds. The retainer contract specifies a 'unit price' per day worked, with no minimum working days guaranteed. Payment will be made only after the completion of work. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. Background checks are conducted on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks.