Programme Assistant, GS-5, Putrajaya

Organizational Context

The Programme Assistant position is based in the UNFPA Country Office in Malaysia, supporting the Programmes Unit. This unit provides crucial programme and technical support, aligning with UNFPA Malaysia's strategy. The role contributes to the organization's mandate of upholding the rights and choices of women, girls, and young people, working towards a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled.

Job Purpose

Reporting to the National Programme Officer, the Programme Assistant provides essential programme support services, mastering all relevant procedures and guidelines. This role is client and results-oriented, contributing to the country programme's objectives. The incumbent applies established systems and procedures, assisting in knowledge creation by compiling, synthesizing, and analyzing information related to population and development, reproductive health, and gender issues. The position is key to supporting programmatic and operational areas, managing project activities, and ensuring the smooth functioning of technical and operational processes within the UNFPA Malaysia Country Office.

Responsibilities

The Programme Assistant provides comprehensive support across programme, financial, administrative, and communications functions. This includes assisting with partner hiring processes, ensuring compliance with PSEA requirements, and supporting micro-assessments. The role involves coordinating and reporting on programme planning, monitoring, and evaluation, preparing workplans, and conducting monitoring visits. Financially, the assistant prepares budget revisions, monitors commitments, generates financial reports, and manages project closures. Administratively, they maintain project files, facilitate meetings, coordinate logistical support, and draft correspondence. In communications, they may assist with social media updates and provide programme briefs for communication materials.

Work Experience

Five years of relevant experience in social sector/programme development is required for candidates with secondary education. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree need two years of relevant experience. Experience should include knowledge of results-based management, teamwork, time management, multi-tasking, asset and financial management, and strong communication and writing skills. Familiarity with computer systems (Google Workspace) and AI tools is also required.

Skills

Key skills include integrity, commitment to UNFPA and the UN system, cultural diversity awareness, adaptability, results achievement, accountability, professional expertise, analytical and strategic thinking, and teamwork. Functional competencies involve logistical support, data management, document handling, information management, planning, organizing, multi-tasking, financial process management, and proficiency in office software, financial, and spreadsheet applications.

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