
UNESCO Ocean is looking for a Programme Assistant to be responsible for coordinating and performing a full range of office support, administrative, management, and communications support tasks for the smooth and efficient organization and delivery of the work under the Ocean Observing and Services Section.
Apply by 20 March 2025.
- Post Number: IOC 375
- Grade: G-5
- Parent Sector: Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)
- Duty Station: Paris
- Job Family: General Administrative Support
- Type of Contract: Fixed Term
- Duration of Contract: 2 years, renewable
- Salary: The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 48,526 Euros.
- Application Deadline (Midnight Paris Time): 20-MAR-2025
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
Only candidates who are entitled to work in France may apply for this position.
Overview of the Functions of the Post
Under the overall authority of the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) and the direct supervision of the Chief of Section, Ocean Observing and Services (IOC/OOS), you will be an essential team member of the IOC and the Programme Office for the IOC-led Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS).
In this role, you will ensure the smooth coordination and execution of various IOC programmes, supported by expert teams and steering groups.
Your responsibilities will include a comprehensive range of office support, management, and communications tasks that facilitate information management and the efficient delivery of the programme.
General Accountabilities
- Draft and prepare routine correspondence, memoranda, and non-substantive reports.
- Maintain confidential and general files and manage file and reference systems.
- Assist in the preparation of budgetary and financial reports, statistics, or projections for head of section’s use.
- Review draft reports, verify accuracy and consistency, and cross-check figures.
- Provide guidance on HR-related initiatives, administrative rules, and procedures.
- Schedule and organize inter-sessional meetings, both in person and online.
- Assess administrative support needs for meetings and events and coordinate office support services effectively.
Finance and Budget Accountabilities:
- Assist with travel plans, visa processing, security documentation, and make travel arrangements for team staff and GOOS experts.
- Inform supervisors about financial statuses using information systems and reporting.
- Record and reconcile accounting transactions and process payments and budgetary transactions.
- Maintain specific accounts, calculate and compile financial data, and prepare routine reports.
- Monitor budget levels, alert supervisors to potential shortfalls, and ensure compliance with policy and administrative processes.
Communication Accountabilities:
- Coordinate and share relevant information with the GOOS community regarding meetings and organization.
- Maintain and update information on the GOOS website and associated platforms.
- Coordinate the GOOS webinar series.
Additional Activities:
- Provide backup assistance to other administrative assistants in their absence.
Competencies (Core / Managerial)
- Accountability (C)
- Communication (C)
- Innovation (C)
- Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement (C)
- Planning and Organizing (C)
- Results Focus (C)
- Teamwork (C)
- Professionalism (C)
For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.
Required Qualifications
- Education: Completed secondary, technical, or vocational school education.
- Work Experience: At least five (5) years of relevant work experience in programme assistance or administrative support tasks.
- Skills and Competencies:
- Initiative and timely, quality support and services.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
- Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage complex situations flexibly.
- Excellent organizational and coordination skills.
- Capacity to work efficiently in a multi-cultural environment with team spirit.
- Languages: Excellent knowledge (written and spoken) of English.
Desirable Qualifications
- Work Experience: Relevant experience in similar functions within the UN system or any international organization/institution.
- Languages: Knowledge of French.
Benefits and Entitlements
UNESCO’s salaries consist of a basic salary and other benefits which may include: 30 days annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, pension plan, etc.
The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 48,526 Euros. For full information on benefits and entitlements, please consult the Guide to Staff Benefits..
How to Apply
If you meet the qualifications and are eager to contribute to the work of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, please submit your application by the deadline. We look forward to receiving your application!
Join us in advancing global ocean observing and services!
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