UNOPS Project Associate

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. We are on the ground in 166 countries, working with them on their own solutions to global and national development challenges. As they develop local capacity, they draw on the people of UNDP and our wide range of partners.

Job ID/Title :UNOPS Project Associate
Brand :UNOPS
Application Deadline :07-Feb-12
Duty Station :Jerusalem with regular travel to other areas of WB
Duration of Initial Contract :1 year with possibility of extension

Background:
The United Nations Office for Project Services Jerusalem Project Centre (UNOPS JMPC) was established in East Jerusalem in late 2006. Its aim is to provide the United Nations sister agencies and the humanitarian and development sectors within the occupied Palestinian territories with professional project implementation services.
The Project Associate will report directly to the Programme Manager - Infrastructure. The Project Associate will ensure the provision of project support to JMPC Project Manager(s) in the fulfillment of their duties and responsibilities, as framed in Project Documents, and in keeping with internal UNOPS policies, processes and procedures (the “UNOPS Legislative Framework”).

Description of Responsibilities:
-Serve as point of contact between UNOPS finance and support staff and project portfolio on daily practical issues related to the implementation of the project, point of contact for administrative and operational needs and requirements for the project, and UNOPS.
-Supports Project Managers with the preparation of project documents for submission to the JMPC Director for his/her approval, in particular assists with the preparation of internal and external project reports;
-Manages information flows and oversea change controls, risk registers and issue management;
-Documents and provides feedback regarding lessons learned and best practices;
-Supports the project planning process;
-Maintains supporting project financial documents for audit and review processes;
-Ensures that accurate date is entered and reflected in ATLAS;
-Coordinates with other JMPC units to accomplish project objectives on administrative, human resources and procurement matters;
-Provide administrative duties relating to projects as assigned including but not limited to preparing budgets and project delivery reports; and
-Enters/revises project budgets and awards in ATLAS;

Project Management
-When necessary, can be appointed as an ATLAS Project Manager; and
-Provides backstopping for Project Managers on leave.
-Support the Project Manager / Programme Manager in meetings with key stakeholders as required by project requirements.

Project Assurance
 Monitors project quality indicators and monthly health checks for projects supported;
-Ensures that project “blue files” and other relevant project documentation in hard and soft copies are up to date; and
-Provides, as needed project assurance support to project boards.
 
 
Impact of Results
-To ensure smooth running of the project .Works with minimal amount of supervision;
-Independently provides accurate reports and /or records in the areas of work, budget/financial management, project management, personnel administration and other administrative functions.
 
Competencies :
-Professionalism – Excellent knowledge of security/risk management methods combined with a solid background of military or other security specialization and some political knowledge of the location; ability to effectively deal with stress factors. Good technical skills to understand and consolidate the varying security specializations.
-Planning and Organization – Proven ability to plan and organize work and establish priorities.
-Communications – Ability to effectively communicate (oral and written), within all levels of the organization. Good drafting and presentational skills.
-Teamwork – Good interpersonal skills; ability to establish and maintain effective working relations with: UN, INGO and diplomatic staff,  security representatives of local and national governments, with sensitivity and respect for gender, diversity and culture
-Leadership – Demonstrated leadership skills. Ability to make quick decisions in emergencies or when rapid response is required. Ability to manage and motivate a team Initiative and sound judgment; dedication to the United Nations principles and demonstrated ability to work in harmony with persons of different national and cultural background;

Qualifications :
Education:
-  Master’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, International Management or other relevant discipline. Additional years of relevant work experience, preferably in combination with a relevant bachelor’s degree, may substitute for the requirement for a master’s degree
 
Experience:
-At least 5 years of working experience in a Administrative Service, Project Management , Finance, Human Resources or  related areas; 
-Minimum of 1 year working experience with the UN and or international organizations would be an asset;
-Experience in reporting writing and donor communication is strongly desirable;
-Technical report writing and communications experience would be an asset
-Extensive experience in project administration including deep knowledge of financial, HR, Procurement, administrative practices and project reporting 
-Work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve project goals
-Supportive and service oriented personality with commitment, efficiency and willingness to work in a highly motivated and fast-moving team;
-Delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; operates in compliance with UNOPS rules and regulations; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments;

Language Requirements:
- Proficient in both the English and Arabic Language, spoken, written and comprehension.
 
“UNDP/PAPP is an equal opportunity employer: applications from both internal and external men and women will be considered equally”

Important message to all applicants!
-Please be aware that the UNDP/PAPP will review your application only if you have uploaded Personal History Form (P.11) to your application. Please download the form from the following link: http://jobs.undp.ps.
-You will get the opportunity to upload the P-11 at when you apply for the position.
-Incomplete applications or applications received after the closing date will not be given consideration. Please note that only applications that are under consideration will be contacted.

UNDP/PAPP is an equal opportunity employer-
Applications from men and women will be considered equally