Programme Support Specialist

Programme Support Specialist

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA)

May 26, 2025July 10, 2025PortmoresbyPapua New Guinea
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, is the lead UN agency for reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA works towards a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to deliver high-impact results in reproductive health, gender equality, and population development. UNFPA's global strategic plan for 2022-2025 focuses on three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, fulfilling unmet needs for family planning, and eliminating gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA seeks principled and ethical staff who embody human rights norms and standards, manage resources transparently, and commit to delivering excellence in program results.

Job Overview:
The Programme Support Specialist will be responsible for delivering quality program support services to both the Country Office staff and external clients. This role requires mastering all relevant rules, guidelines, and processes while applying established systems and procedures. The specialist will demonstrate strong client and results orientation in service of the country program. Key responsibilities include assisting in the creation of substantive knowledge by compiling, synthesizing, and analyzing information relevant to sexual and reproductive health, population and development, youth, and gender issues. The position is integral to ensuring that the program operates smoothly and effectively, contributing to the overall mission of UNFPA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Support Specialist include: A. Programme planning and coordination support: Assisting in the coordination and review of program planning and preparation of work plans; participating in the preparation of annual and quarterly project work plans; compiling, summarizing, and presenting basic information and data on the country program and specific projects; facilitating preparation of quarterly implementing partners’ collegial program/project review meetings; drafting minutes of meetings; reviewing FACE forms and work plan progress reports; participating in monitoring visits to program/project sites; and verifying program/project assets annually. B. Financial management support: Assisting in the preparation of budget revisions based on approved work plans; monitoring project budgetary commitments; generating required financial reports; checking and examining various project financial reports for accuracy; taking required actions on operational and financial closure of projects; and following up with implementation partners for timely submission of progress reports and FACE forms. C. Administrative support: Ensuring that all official documents are prepared and kept in project files; facilitating program activities by arranging meeting schedules and coordinating logistical support; preparing necessary documentation and minutes of meetings; ensuring knowledge-sharing between program and operations; drafting routine project-related correspondence; and providing information to missions, visitors, and program counterparts. The specialist will also carry out any other relevant activities and responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor and senior management.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Programme Support Specialist position include a minimum of High School Education, with a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field considered an asset. Candidates should have at least six (6) years of relevant experience with completion of High School Education, or two (2) years with a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in the public or private sector and program development. Previous experience with the UN is an advantage, along with knowledge of results-based management and asset and financial management. Candidates must possess the ability to express ideas and concepts clearly and concisely in both written and oral form, and proficiency in current office software applications is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a minimum of High School Education. A Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of six (6) years of relevant experience if they have completed High School Education, or at least two (2) years of experience with a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in the public or private sector, specifically in program development. Previous experience with the UN is advantageous and will be viewed favorably during the selection process.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official UN languages, preferably French and/or Spanish, is desirable and will enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive salary, health insurance, and other benefits as applicable. UNFPA does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing, or other fees in connection with the application or recruitment process. Candidates are advised to be cautious of fraudulent notices, letters, or offers and can report any suspicious activity to the UNFPA fraud hotline. The job description is complete, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply.
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