Logistics Specialist, P3, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
Organizational Context
The Democratic Republic of Congo is conducting a large-scale digital census, presenting significant logistical challenges across its vast territory. The Logistics Specialist will report to the Census Programme Coordinator and oversee end-to-end supply chain management, distribution, warehousing, customs clearance, and asset tracking for this critical national operation. UNFPA, as the lead UN agency for population and development, supports this census to achieve Sustainable Development Goals.
Job Purpose
The Logistics Specialist is responsible for providing essential technical and operational support to the national census bureau (BCR) and statistical institute (INS) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The primary goal is to ensure the efficient, secure, cost-effective, and accountable management of all logistical aspects for the census. This includes designing, implementing, and monitoring the comprehensive logistics plan, covering the movement of equipment, materials, and personnel across the country. The role also focuses on building the capacity of local partners to manage complex, technology-driven fieldwork operations.
Responsibilities
The role involves leading the development and execution of the National Logistics Master Plan, standardizing transport workflows across diverse routes (air, road, river, foot) to ensure timely delivery of IT equipment to remote locations. This includes collaborating with procurement on timelines and delivery terms. The specialist will oversee international customs clearance and manage central and provincial warehouse operations, ensuring security and strict inventory controls for sensitive electronic devices using an electronic tracking system. Responsibilities extend to implementing asset management protocols for high-value items and managing reverse logistics for equipment collection and reconciliation post-enumeration. The role also requires coordinating field transport, assessing risks, establishing contingency plans, and providing real-time support to resolve logistical bottlenecks. Capacity building of national logistics teams through training on modern tools and protocols is also a key duty.
Work Experience
Requires a minimum of 5 years of progressive professional experience in supply chain management, complex field logistics, warehouse management, and freight transportation. Direct experience in large-scale national operations, censuses, or humanitarian distributions in developing countries is highly preferred. Hands-on experience with automated inventory management and asset-tracking technologies is essential. Familiarity with UN operational policies and customs clearance is advantageous.
Skills
Core competencies include integrity, commitment, cultural diversity, embracing change, achieving results, accountability, professional expertise, analytical and strategic thinking, teamwork, and effective communication. Functional skills encompass Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Asset & Risk Management, and Operational Innovation.