Political Affairs Officer Job Vacancy in New York, USA

Job Title: Political Affairs Officer, P3

Department/ Office: Department of Political Affairs

Duty Station: NEW YORK

Posting Period: 3 October 2012-2 December 2012

Job Opening number: 12-POL-DPA-25337-R-NEW YORK (R)

United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity

Organizational Setting and Reporting

The Position is located in the Africa 1 Division of the Department of Political Affairs (DPA). The incumbent will report to the Team leader and the Deputy Director of the Division.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority and supervision of the Team leader and Deputy Director, the Political Affairs Officer will be responsible for the following duties:

• performs the functions of Desk Officer for a number of countries in Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean, Eastern Africa, the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes;
• conducts research and prepares analytical material and assessments related to political developments in the countries assigned;
• is responsible for preparing draft briefing material for the Secretary-General and other senior officials;
• provides advice and support to the Team Leader, the Deputy Director and the Director, in particular in the areas of mediation, preventive diplomacy and peace-building involving the countries assigned;
• as appropriate, the incumbent participates in fact finding missions and assists in providing support to UN operations and offices;
• covers Security Council and General Assembly deliberations on relevant political issues;
• performs other related duties as required.

Competencies

Professionalism - Ability to conduct in-depth studies and reach conclusions on possible causes and solutions to political problems in Africa, especially countries in the Great Lakes region, Southern, Eastern and the Horn of Africa; ability to relate various issues and perspectives to political, social, economic and humanitarian programmes in affected countries and areas; Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Planning and Organizing - Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Communication - Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Education

An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in International Relations, Political Science or related area is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in political science, international relations, conflict resolution or related field is required. Qualifying years of experience are calculated following the receipt of the first level degree recognised by the United Nations.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this post, fluency in English (both oral and written) is required. Knowledge of French is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage

Assessment Method

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by a competency-based interview.

Special Notice

Appointment to this position is limited to a finite period of one (1) year, due to the incumbent being on Special Leave Without Pay (SLWP). Further extension/s of appointment will be dependent upon the return of the incumbent who maintains a lien against this post. If the selected candidate is an internal staff member of the UN Secretariat, the selection will be recorded as a temporary assignment.

United Nations Considerations

The United Nations shall place no restrictions on the eligibility of men and women to participate in any capacity and under conditions of equality in its principal and subsidiary organs. (Charter of the United Nations - Chapter 3, article 8). The United Nations Secretariat is a non-smoking environment.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS' BANK ACCOUNTS.

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Closing Date: Sunday, 02 December 2012