Associate Programme Officer
Cox's Bazaar | Dhaka
- Organization: UNHCR - United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
- Location: Cox's Bazaar | Dhaka
- Grade: Junior level - P-2, International Professional - Internationally recruited position
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Occupational Groups:
- Project and Programme Management
- Closing Date: Closed
Hardship Level
Family Type
Family Type
Residential location (if applicable)
Grade
Staff Member / Affiliate Type
Reason
Regular > Regular AssignmentRemote work accepted
Target Start Date
Job Posting End Date
Standard Job Description
Associate Programme Officer
Organizational Setting and Work Relationships
The Associate Programme Officer may be based in HQ, field/regional bureau, typically reporting to and be guided by the Program officer and may supervise a small team of local staff. He/she may refer to UNHCR's Programme Manual (Chapter IV), UNHCR's corporate and regional strategic priorities, operation plans and other relevant institutional rules and regulations for further guidance.
The Associate Programme Officer will provide programmatic guidance and support with regard to the implementation of protection and solutions strategies within available resources. S/he will coordinate with the other sections/units to ensure harmonized programmatic approaches at all levels and throughout the UNHCR Operations Management Cycle. The incumbent will work in line with the overall UNHCR directions which crucially require working with partners, including with persons of concern, governmental institutions and the private sector, ensuring that programme management is approached as per UNHCR's Strategic Directions, Global Strategic Priorities (GSPs), Global Compact for Refugees (GCR), and corporate positions on SDGs.
The incumbent is expected to work in line with the multi-functional team (MFT) approach as defined within the Program Manual, ensuring the participation of relevant stakeholders in all phases of the Program Management Cycle.
All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.
Duties
- Support in assessing and analysing the needs of persons of concern in a participatory manner, using an Age, Gender and Diversity (AGD) perspective as basis for planning.
- Provide support on programmatic aspects of developing multi-year protection and solutions strategies and annual plans with corresponding priorities taking into account corporate priorities.
- Support Results Based Management and programme capacity in light of evolving requirements, programming approaches and gaps.
- Assist the planning process in compliance with planning parameters outlined in the Programme Manual and the planning instructions.
- Support the revision and analysis of plans, mid-year and year-end reports of UNHCR office(s) in the Area of Responsibility AoR), ensure quality assurance and compliance with established policies, guidelines, procedures and standards.
- Assist in the provision of overall direction to broaden partnerships with key stakeholders in order to maximize the protection and solutions response for persons of concern.
- Provide support to ensure a consistent application of the framework for implementing with partners, including the effective implementation of the policy on selection and retention of partners, management of partnership agreements, risk-based project performance monitoring, and risk-based project audits, among others.
- Contribute to ensure consistent and coherent monitoring approaches, tools and systems across the region, in line with global standards and polices.
- Actively contribute to UNHCRs programming of community of practice and continuously contribute to improvements of programming tools and processes.
- Oversee a timely and effective follow-up of internal and external audits observations and recommendations that relate to programmatic issues.
- Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).
- Perform other related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For P2/NOB - 3 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 2 years relevant experience with Graduate degree; or 1 year relevant experience with Doctorate degree
Field(s) of Education
Economics; Business Administration; Social Sciences; or other relevant field.
Certificates and/or Licenses
Programme Management
Certification Programme in Programme Management (CP-PM)
(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Relevant Job Experience
Essential
Demonstrated experience in programme management including familiarization with the OMC and sound knowledge of Results Based-Management. Demonstrated experience in field operations, sound knowledge on the centrality of protection in programming, Joint Needs Assessments and the principles of targeting.
Desirable
Demonstrated experience in coordination within an inter-agency context and other actors, in a refugee or humanitarian context. Sound experience in program management training and capacity building activities.
Functional Skills
MG-Project Management
PG-Results-Based Management
PG-UNHCR's Programmes
PG-Stakeholder management and coordination with Implementing Partners (Gov/NGO/Corporate)
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.
All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power.
As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.
This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.
Desired Candidate Profile
This is a one-year fixed-term appointment, with the possibility of renewal for a maximum of two years.
General Requirements for candidates applying to the JPO Programme of the Republic of Korea:
a) Korean citizenship
b) Fluency in Korean and English
c) Completion of university with a Bachelor’s degree
d) Certificate of English proficiency test: Applicants should score a minimum of (i) TOEFL iBT 100 or (ii) TEPS 430 or (iii) IELTS 7 or (iv) TOEIC 900
- TOEFL ‘Home Edition’ score is accepted while ‘MyBest Scores’ are not accepted
- IELTS General Training and Academic test are both accepted
- Test scores are valid for 2 years after the test date
e) Not older than 32 years of age as of 31st December, 2024 (born after 1st January, 1992). The maximum age limit for those who served in the military will be extended accordingly: one year will be extended for those who served for less than one year; two years will be extended for those who served for more than one year and less than two years; three years will be extended for those who served for two years or more.
f) Male applicants shall have completed the Korean military service or be exempted from it. Those who will be discharged from military service in the year of the application may also apply.
g) Applicants can apply for a maximum of two JPO positions sponsored by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea during the year of application.
Required Documents:
a) A complete online application (in Workday, UNHCR's Online Recruitment Website) and motivation letter in English
b) A scanned copy of applicant’s Resident Register in English
c) A copy of university degree (Bachelor’s/Master’s/Doctorate degree) certificate in English
d) A copy of English proficiency test certificate: Applicants should score a minimum of (i) TOEFL iBT 100 or (ii) TEPS 430 or (iii) IELTS 7 or (iv) TOEIC 900
- TOEFL ‘Home Edition’ score is accepted while ‘MyBest Scores’ are not accepted
- IELTS General Training and Academic test are both accepted
- Test scores are valid for 2 years after the test date
e) Only for male applicants who have completed the national military service: A certificate of Korean Military Service in English. The maximum age limit for those who served in the military will be extended in accordance with the Support for Discharged Soldiers Act and the Military Service Law.
f) Only for low-income applicants: A scanned copy of a certificate of National Basic Livelihood Security Recipients issued in Korean and its unofficial translation in English
g) Only for persons with disability: A scanned copy of a certificate of person with disability issued in Korean and English
Application Deadline: Friday, 9th August 2024 at 11:59 pm KST
General Information:
For general information on the JPO Programme of the Republic of Korea, please visit the website of the International Organizations Recruitment Center, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea at https://unrecruit.mofa.go.kr
SKILLS:
Ideally the candidate should have
(a) programming skills and knowledge that are both flexible and pragmatic;
(b) At least two years of international exposure and experience in working in similar context particularly big emergencies and/or operations handling resources of significant volume through partnerships and direct implementation; (c) Ability to multitask and deliver in an extremely demanding work environment with high level of pressure and emergencies within emergency;
(d) Ability and knowledge to work with a mix of partnerships I/NGOs and direct implementation independently;
(e) Ability to come up with innovative and creative solutions to operational challenges following programme guidelines; (f) Have knowledge of formulating joint appeals and plans, bringing together concept notes and ability to provide sound technical advice to counterparts;
(g) Good analytical skills and the ability to produce analysis that facilitate decision making process;
(h) Spirit of consensus team-building and cultural sensitivity to work with a diverse and multicultural team including external partners;
(i) knowledge and experience in analytical work;
(j) experience in and familiarity with UNHCR corporate tools and systems; and
(k) have good managerial skills and experience of supervising.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES:
Experience working in public information and communications.
- Experience working in donor relations.
- Excellent ICT skills.
- Experience working in complex and big operations.
- Experience working with refugees, NGOs, government authorities
Required languages (expected Overall ability is at least B2 level):
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,
Desired languages
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Operational context
Occupational Safety and Health Considerations:
To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit this link:
Nature of Position:
Over 926,000 Rohingya refugees reside in Bangladesh, the majority in 33 extremely overcrowded camps in the Ukhiya and Teknaf subdivisions of Cox’s Bazar District, now home to the world’s largest refugee settlement. Some 30,000 refugees also reside on Bhasan Char, an island located in the Bay of Bengal, 60 kilometers from the Bangladesh mainland.
As the Rohingya refugee response is well into its sixth year, and with the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) remaining focused on voluntary repatriation, in safe, dignified and sustainable conditions, as the primary solution for Rohingya refugees, UNHCR and its partners continue to support the GoB to respond to the massive humanitarian and protection needs of Rohingya refugees and alleviate the pressure on the Bangladeshi host community and existing facilities and services.
Unlike other refugee operations, the coordination is an hybrid model and managed by the Inter-Sector Coordination Group (ISCG), and sectors. The office of Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner (RRRC)under the overall guidance from Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR) has the responsibility of camp coordination activities both in Cox's Bazar as well as on Bhasan Char.
The Associate Programme Officer is a member of the Programme team in Cox's Bazar, and under the overall supervision of the Programme Officer who will monitor the performance of the incumbent and provide regular guidance. The incumbent may also receive guidance from Senior Programme Officer and other Senior staff in the Operations.
The annual budget for UNHCR Bangladesh is 275 million and activities are either implemented directly by UNHCR personnel or through partnership arrangements. Partners are selected through a transparent and competitive process and currently there are 19 national and international partners with whom UNHCR Bangladesh has partnership agreements. In addition, UNHCR has partnership arrangement with UN agencies and operational partnership both with UN, national and international organizations.
Living and Working Conditions:
Cox's Bazar is a beach city located in the southeastern corner of Bangladesh about 298 kilometers from Dhaka, the capital city. It is classified as a category D family duty station with a 2-year Standard Assignment Length (SAL). Educational resources are limited, and international schools spanning primary to secondary levels are exclusively located in Dhaka. Health services are somewhat also limited in Cox's Bazar, with more reliable facilities accessible in Dhaka while excellent medical care is accessible in Bangkok, which is the R&R location. Throughout the year, there are prevalent risks of malaria and dengue necessitating recommended vaccinations against Japanese Encephalitis and Diphtheria.
As a prominent tourist destination in Bangladesh, Cox's Bazar draws visitors due to its scenic location at the Bay of Bengal and its expansive beach stretching over 120km to the tip of the peninsula, with several hotels and restaurants. Leisure and recreational facilities generally focus on beach activities and hotel-based activities (swimming pools, gyms, restaurants). Despite its significance, the city's infrastructure and shopping options are quite basic, catering to its relatively small population of 250,000 individuals. Vegetables, fruits, cereals and meat products (fish, chicken, mutton and beef) are available. International staff typically reside in privately rented or serviced apartments, meeting fundamental standards.
The climate of Bangladesh is mostly determined by its location in the tropical monsoon climate region: high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and generally excessive humidity, with distinct seasonal variations. The annual average temperature in Cox's Bazar is a maximum of 30.1 °C (86.2 °F) and a minimum of 22.0 °C (71.6 °F).
Rest and Recuperation (R&R) cycle in Cox's Bazar spans 8 weeks, with Bangkok, Thailand being the designated R&R location. Flights connecting Cox's Bazar to Dhaka operate daily but only during daylight hours. Flight from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar takes one hour. The main airlines serving the airport are Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines, Novoair and Air Astra. Banking facilities and ATM machines are available in Cox's Bazar, and credit/debit cards are generally accepted to withdraw only in local currency Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). However, for those considering bringing family members, especially young children, it is advisable to consult HR for comprehensive information since educational and medical facilities may not be sufficient.
The workweek is from Sunday to Thursday and working hours from 8:00 to 17:00hrs with one hour lunch break.
Health hazards in the duty station include road crash, work overload, natural disasters, mental health problems, substance use and abuse, heart disease, metabolic disease (diabetes), vector-borne disease, water and food-borne disease, SGBV, other infectious diseases and environmental hazards.
The General Threat Assessment in Cox’s Bazar is level 3 moderate. Given the current situation in the area, All UN official movements should be completed during daytime hours (Sunrise to sunset). All international personnel should return to their homes before 2300 hours. Crowded local markets should be avoided.
Security Clearance is required and can be requested via TRIP at https://dss.un.org. Requests for clearance should be submitted 7 days prior to travel.
Additional Qualifications
Skills
MG-Project Management, PG-Results-Based Management, PG-Stakeholder management and coordination with Implementing Partners (Gov/NGO/Corporate), PG-UNHCR's ProgrammesEducation
Certifications
CP-PM Certification Programme for Programme Management - UNHCR, Programme Management - OtherWork Experience
Competencies
Accountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Empowering & building trust, Judgement & decision making, Managing resource, Negotiation & conflict resolution, Organizational awareness, Teamwork & collaborationUNHCR Salary Calculator
https://icsc.un.org/Home/SalaryScales
Compendium
Additional Information
Functional clearance