UNV Telecom Technician in Central African Republic

DESCRIPTION OF ASSIGNMENT

Preamble:

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is the UN organization that promotes volunteerism to support peace and development worldwide. Volunteerism can transform the pace and nature of development and it benefits both society at large and the individual volunteer. UNV contributes to peace and development by advocating for volunteerism globally, encouraging partners to integrate volunteerism into development programming, and mobilizing volunteers.

In most cultures volunteerism is deeply embedded in long-established, ancient traditions of sharing and support within the communities. In this context, UN Volunteers take part in various forms of volunteerism and play a role in development and peace together with co-workers, host agencies and local communities.

In all assignments, UN Volunteers promote volunteerism through their action and conduct. Engaging in volunteer activity can effectively and positively enrich their understanding of local and social realities, as well as create a bridge between themselves and the people in their host community. This will make the time they spend as UN Volunteers even more rewarding and productive.

1. Type of Assignment: International UN Volunteer

2. Type of Assignment Place: Non-Family Duty Station

3. Assignment Title: Telecom Technician

3a. Budget code: 2017-1CAFC-PF-811AH-7000020-1116-622050

4. Link with UNV Strategic Framework: Securing access to basic social services

5. Duty Station, Country: Bangui, Central African Republic (CAR) 6. Duration (in months): 12 months

7. Expected Starting Date: as soon as possible

8. Host Agency/Host Institute: UNHCR

9. Organizational Context/Project: The Office of the UNHCR was established on 14 December 1950 by the UN General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and co-ordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. It strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally or to resettle in a third country (www.unhcr.org).

UNHCR has 7 offices in CAR: 1 Country Office (Bangui), 1 Sub-Office (Bouar) and 5 Field Office (Bambari, Kaga-Bandoro, Obo, Paoua and Zemio). UNHCR protection interventions in favor of internally displaced people (IDPs) in CAR cover both coordination and operational aspects. With regard to coordination, UNHCR is the Lead of the protection Cluster in Bangui and regional protection clusters in prefectures where UNHCR has a presence. Coming to operational aspects, UNHCR in CAR is involved in activities related to Protection monitoring, social A. Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany

T. +49 (0) 228-815 2000

F. +49 (0) 228-815 2001 www.unv.org

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).cohesion, Housing Land and Property (HLP), Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) and shelter. UNHCR is working with implementing partners in the main prefectures

affected by the humanitarian crisis in CAR. In 2017, UNHCR will enhance efforts to analyze and

report information related to the protection situation of People of Concern.

10. Description of tasks:

Under the direct supervision of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Officer,

the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

• Provide support in the instalment and the maintainance of the telecommunication equipement and transfer knowledge and training to other staff on the use and maintainace of Telecommunication equipment
• Work in close coordination with ICT staffs and relevant units at Headquarters, to coordinate, supervise, manage and monitor the use of telecommunications. He/ She will act as adviser or assists in representing the Organization with local authorities and commercial contractors/ suppliers of telecoms equipment.
• Install all types of UNHCR communications equipment with particular attention to ensure the proper operation and maintenance of the field equipment comprising of VSAT and voice communication systems;
• Carry out general and preventive maintenance of RFC Units, Satellite Modems, Multiplexers and Antennas,
• Inspect system power resources (generator, inverters, rectifiers, stabilizers, UPS devices) and ensure that safety precautions are followed;
• Ensure that the equipment under his/her responsibility is in good working condition, by inspecting regularly the installations and arranging promptly repairs or replacement as necessary;
• Maintain records of the installations and repairs done and keeps the TOO fully informed on status of equipment;
• Keep a proper inventory level of all sites spares and returns spare parts for repair/replacement;
• Provide technical briefing/training on the equipment ensuring that Radio Technicians and users are able to maintain/use the equipment;
• Draws up procedures and instructions on the operation of the UNHCR radio networks which not only cover the handling of the traffic and equipment but also matters such as confidentiality of communications, type of traffic allowed on the networks and traffic discipline;
• Maintains an inventory Advice and support to the ICT Officer on telecommunication matters and assists in the preparation of budgetary submission pertaining to telecommunication equipment and systems;
• Submits, on a regular basis, communications outlining the scope and operational status for the telecommunications, the performance and suitability of existing installations and recommendations for modifications or upgrading of standardized equipment, to keep abreast of technology development but bearing in mind the need for economy and efficiency.
• Assists in liaising with the National Regulatory Authority to ensure that licenses and permissions required to operate UNHCR telecommunications networks are granted
• Performs other related duties, as required. A. Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany

T. +49 (0) 228-815 2000

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The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).Furthermore, UN Volunteers are required to:

• Strengthen their knowledge and understanding of the concept of volunteerism by reading relevant UNV and external publications and take active part in UNV activities (for instance in events that mark International Volunteer Day);
• Be acquainted with and build on traditional and/or local forms of volunteerism in the host country;
• Reflect on the type and quality of voluntary action that they are undertaking, including participation in ongoing reflection activities;
• Contribute articles/write-ups on field experiences and submit them for UNV publications/websites, newsletters, press releases, etc.;
• Assist with the UNV Buddy Programme for newly-arrived UN Volunteers;
• Promote or advise local groups in the use of online volunteering, or encourage relevant local individuals and organizations to use the UNV Online Volunteering service whenever technically possible.

11. Results/Expected Outputs:

• UNHCR Country operation has modern and cost-effective ICT systems.
• Effective coordination/cooperation with DIST ICT Field Operations section.
• Oversees day-to-day operations, monitors performance, and evaluates customer feedback to develop quality improvement processes.
• ICT voice, security and data services are functioning and maintained.
• Decide on appropriate resolution to incidents / problems.
• Issues are escalated to the supervisor if incident / problem cannot be resolved with scope of responsibility.
• The development of capacity through coaching, mentoring and formal on-the-job training, when working with (including supervising) national staff or (non-) governmental counterparts, including Implementing Partners (IPs);
• Age, Gender and Diversity (AGD) perspective is systematically applied, integrated and documented in all activities throughout the assignment
• A final statement of achievements towards volunteerism for development during the assignment, such as reporting on the number of volunteers mobilized, activities participated in and capacities developed.

12. Qualifications/Requirements (including competencies, values and skills):

A) Qualifications, skills, experience:

Degree level: Bachelor's degree

Type of Degree: University degree in Computer Science, Information Technology or related

fields with good knowledge of ICT networks, Satellite and radio communication.

Years of work experience: A minimum of 5 years relevant professional job experience ICT

experience supporting ICT infrastructure (LAN/WAN, HF/VHF radio, VSAT satellite systems,

PABX). Knowledge of satellite based communications, VSAT, MSS and knowledge of VHF/HF

communications.

Language: Excellent knowledge of French and working knowledge of English.

Driving license: Yes

A. Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany

T. +49 (0) 228-815 2000

F. +49 (0) 228-815 2001. www.unv.org

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).Computer skills: Office Package (excellent knowledge of Word, good knowledge of Excel and Power Point) and Internet browsing.

• Formal training and certification on satellite communication and radio communication's system.
• Good understanding of energy/power related systems.
• Good analytical, Innovation and Creativity and Technological Awareness skills.
• Communication skills
• Progressively responsible experience in telecommunications (HF and VHF radio) in an international context, with an international organization, NGO or corporate organization Other
• Extensive knowledge of field work

B) Competencies and values:

• Integrity and professionalism: demonstrated expertise in area of specialty and ability to apply good judgment; high degree of autonomy, personal initiative and ability to take ownership; willingness to accept wide responsibilities and ability to work independently under established procedures in a politically sensitive environment, while exercising discretion, impartiality and neutrality; ability to manage information objectively, accurately and confidentially; responsive and client-oriented.
• Accountability: mature and responsible; ability to operate in compliance with organizational rules and regulations.
• Commitment to continuous learning: initiative and willingness to learn new skills and stay abreast of new developments in area of expertise; ability to adapt to changes in work environment.
• Planning and organizing: effective organizational and problem-solving skills and ability to manage a large volume of work in an efficient and timely manner; ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor (own) work; ability to work under pressure, with conflicting deadlines, and to handle multiple concurrent projects/activities.
• Teamwork and respect for diversity: ability to operate effectively across organizational boundaries; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and harmonious working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity and gender;
• Communication: proven interpersonal skills; good spoken and written communication skills, including ability to prepare clear and concise reports; ability to conduct presentations, articulate options and positions concisely; ability to make and defend recommendations; ability to communicate and empathize with staff (including national staff), military personnel, volunteers, counterparts and local interlocutors coming from very diverse backgrounds; ability to maintain composure and remain helpful towards the staff, but objective, without showing personal interest; capacity to transfer information and knowledge to a wide range of different target groups;
• Flexibility, adaptability, and ability and willingness to operate independently in austere, remote and potentially hazardous environments for protracted periods, involving physical hardship and little comfort, and including possible extensive travel within the area of operations; willingness to transfer to other duty stations within area of operations as may be necessary; A. Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany

T. +49 (0) 228-815 2000

F. +49 (0) 228-815 2001. www.unv.org

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Genuine commitment towards the principles of voluntary engagement, which includes solidarity, compassion, reciprocity and self-reliance; and commitment towards the UN core

values.

13. Living Conditions:

Central African Republic is a non-family duty station with a difficult security and working

environment. The country is landlocked with very limited travel possibilities and surrounded by

countries with volatile and security problems (Chad, DR Congo, Sudan, South Sudan and

Cameroon). Volatile socio-political situation and social unrest and grievance in particular in the

capital city Bangui with frequent civil servants strikes causing interruption of health, education

and civil service due to years of unpaid salaries. Power cuts are a norm causing insecurity in

town. The population in Bangui including the expatriates is concerned about increasing cases

of criminalities as a direct result of the March 2013 coup by the SELEKA – a coalition of rebel

groups and recent events in December 2013 that carried the country into a chaos.

The country is totally dependent on Cameroon sea port situated 1500 kms away causing

regular shortage of basic domestic goods. Travel time from Douala (Cameroon) to Bangui for

a truckload averages a week because of very bad roads and several roadblocks. The country

security level is between 3 and 4 restricting movement to official travel only.

Currently the curfew applies from 10 pm to 6 am.

This situation puts tremendous stress on staff and their family members. There are very limited

medical infrastructures and services do not function properly. Nevertheless, a UN Dispensary

provides basic medical care for the UN personnel and the UN hospital built is operational since

August 2014.

Only four airlines officially recognized by UN System serve the country: Air France (once a

week), Royal Air Maroc (twice a week), Kenya Airways (three flights per week) and Asky

(three flights per week). Flights are sometimes subject to cancellation when security situation

volatility increases.

Rest & Recuperation (R&R) scheme in Bangui has been re-established since August 2013

and maintained for all CAR duty stations to a 6 weeks frequency. Living conditions are

becoming more and more difficult due to the high cost of living and the scarcity of basic

products and food. Fresh vegetables and fruits are available in the market. There is no

MINUSCA Guest House in Bangui. Private accommodation possibilities are limited and getting

a house according to the security measures can take about 4 weeks or more. Nevertheless,

currently all serving UN Volunteers have a decent accommodation ensuring minimum and

above the minimum standard of comfort. The average cost for accommodation varies from

around 500 USD, for a small apartment with no furniture and no power generator, to 1700

USD with all commodities.

For the sake of rewarding experience, UN Volunteers in CAR carry out their duties with flexibility,

commitment, and a willingness to live and work in challenging conditions including heat and

limited water and electricity supply.

14. Conditions of Service for international UN Volunteers:

The duration of your assignment is 12 months with possible extension on the basis of project

requirements, budget availability and performance.

T. +49 (0) 228-815 2000A. Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany

F. +49 (0) 228-815 2001W. www.unv.org

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).A volunteer receives a Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) which is composed of the Monthly Living Allowance (MLA) and a Family Allowance (FA) for those with dependents.

The VLA is paid at the end of each month to cover housing, utilities, transportation,

communications and other basic needs. The VLA can be computed by applying the Post-

Adjustment Multiplier (PAM) to the VLA base rate of US$ 1,587 The VLA base rate is a global

rate, while the PAM is country-specific and fluctuates on a monthly basis according to the cost

of living. This method ensures that international UN Volunteers have comparable purchasing

power at all duty stations irrespective of varying costs of living. The PAM is established by the

International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) and is published at the beginning of every month

on the ICSC website (http://icsc.un.org). For example, if the PAM for the current month in the

country of assignment is 49.5%, then the VLA for that month and for that country will be US$

1,587 + (1587x 49.5%) = US$ 2,372.56. Moreover, to complete the monthly VLA rate, a Family

Allowance (FA) is added in function of the number of recognized dependents (or: in the amount

of US$ 250 if the UN Volunteer has 1 recognized dependent, and US$ 450 if the UN Volunteer

has 2 or more recognized dependents). In addition, in non-family duty stations that belong to

hardship categories D or E, as classified by the ICSC, international UN Volunteers receive a

Well-Being Differential (WBD) on a monthly basis. The VLA and WBD taken together form the

net core entitlements.

Furthermore, UN Volunteers are provided a settling-in-grant (SIG) at the start of the assignment

(if the volunteer did not reside in the duty station for at least 6 months prior to taking up the

assignment) and, under strict conditions, also in the event of a permanent reassignment to

another duty station (duty stations can change in the course of an assignment based on

operational necessity; UN Volunteers may be required to work anywhere in the area of

operations of the host organization, including in remote locations). Life, health, permanent

disability and malicious acts insurances are included, as well as assignment travel, annual leave,

full integration in the UN security framework (including residential security reimbursements as

per the local MORSS), DSA payment for official travel, periodic home visit, final repatriation

travel (except in the event of a resignation within the initial contract period), and resettlement

allowance for satisfactory service.

UNV will provide, together with the offer of assignment, a copy of the Conditions of Service,

including Code of conduct, to the successful candidate.

15. Applications

If you are not yet a candidate in UNV’s database, please apply by registering your profile at

https://ereta.unv.org/html/index.php?module=myprofile . Important: Once you have created your

UNV account by validating your email address, please complete all sections of your profile and

select the following code: “17_CAF_TELTECH” from the drop down menu in the “Special

Recruitment” tab of ‘MyProfile’. Your application can only be considered once you have

submitted your complete UNV profile (green button). As a confirmation of your successful

registration, you will receive an email with your UNV roster number.

If you are registered in the UNV database of candidates, please update your profile at:

http://MyProfile.unv.org. In the “Special Recruitment” section on the left, click on the “Edit” button

and select the advertisement code “17_CAF_TELTECH” from the drop-down list.

Application deadline: 15 February 2017. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

T. +49 (0) 228-815 2000. Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany

F. +49 (0) 228-815 2001. www.unv.org

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). United Nations Volunteers is an equal opportunity programme which welcomes applications from qualified professionals. We are committed to achieving diversity in terms of gender, na-

tionality and culture.

T. +49 (0) 228-815 2000 A. Platz der Vereinten Nationen 1, 53113 Bonn, Germany

F. +49 (0) 228-815 2001 W. www.unv.org

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).