Junior Assistant Coordinator

United Nations University

The United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars, engaged in research, postgraduate training and the dissemination of knowledge in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations, its Peoples and Member States. The University functions as a think tank for the United Nations system, contributes to capacity building, particularly in developing countries, and serves as a platform for new and innovative ideas and dialogue. For more information please visit http://unu.edu.

United Nations University Programme for Biotechnology in Latin America and the Caribbean (UNU-BIOLAC)

Located in Caracas, Venezuela, UNU-BIOLAC was established in 1988. UNU-BIOLAC is a capacity development programme in biotechnology which belongs to the UNU system.

The programme’s main goal is to provide tools to facilitate training and research in biotechnology thus contributing to the economic and social development of the Latin American region. These actions are taken keeping a balance between science, technology, and modern society. The creation of UNU-BIOLAC was considered as a first step in the establishment of an international institute for the development of biotechnology in Latin America and the Caribbean with headquarters located in Venezuela.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the UNU-BIOLAC Coordinator, and in close cooperation with the Senior Assistant to the Coordinator, the Junior Assistant will assist in the operative tasks of the office, such as:

• planning of agenda and travel of the Coordinator
• procurement, execution, and follow up of payments of utilities, maintenance personnel, and other office related services
• preparation of petty cash
• maintenance and update of the library and its database
• preparation and update of dissemination materials (including website information)
• channeling of course and fellowship applications
• follow up on the evaluation of applications
• collaboration with the Senior Assistant in the implementation of projects and strategies
• fulfill duties as a receptionist for visitors and contact center (telephone and email)
• perform any other duties as may be assigned

Required qualifications and experience

Required qualifications and experience include:

• a bachelor’s degree in international affairs, modern languages, or other related fields
• prior administrative experience is desired
• communications knowledge in social media, PR, and marketing skills are an asset
• knowledge of Microsoft Office programs and tools
• excellent interpersonal relations and the ability to easily work and communicate with others, especially in multicultural environments
• excellent communication skills with fluency in both oral and written English and Spanish; knowledge of other United Nations official languages is an asset

Duration of contract

This is full-time employment on a Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) with UNU-BIOLAC. The Junior Assistant will work from Monday to Friday on a eight hour basis (full-time). Initial appointment will be for six (6) months with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory work performance.

This is a locally recruited post; no relocation expenses or allowances apply. Applications from suitably qualified female candidates are particularly encouraged.

Starting date

As soon as possible.

Interested applicants should submit their applications by email (to applications.unu.biolac@gmail.com), and must include the following:

• a cover letter setting out how the qualifications and experience match the requirements of the position
• a curriculum vitae and a completed and signed UNU Personal History (P.11) form; please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organisations
• documents that support language proficiency in English
• documents that support work experience provided in the curriculum vitae
• full contact information of three (3) references

As the subject of the application email, please input the reference number of the vacancy announcement (2020/UNU/BIOLAC/PSA/JAC/06).

Vacancy Announcement: UNU-BIOLAC Junior Assistant Coordinator (210.5 KB PDF)

By email: applications.unu.biolac@gmail.com