Database Associate - (Audit Recommendation Tracking Tool)
Organizational Context
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization dedicated to sustainable development and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Operating in 170 countries, UNDP helps nations build lasting solutions for people and the planet. The UNDP Pacific sub-office in Palau supports the region's development priorities, contributing to outcomes in planet, prosperity, and peace. UNDP is currently enhancing audit follow-up and public accountability by supporting Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) with an Audit Recommendation Tracking Tool.
Job Purpose
This volunteer assignment aims to support the Supreme Audit Institution (SAI) in Palau by ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the Audit Recommendation Tracking Tool. The role involves systematically uploading audit reports, populating the database with key findings and recommendations, and verifying the data against source documents. The volunteer will also be responsible for updating the status of recommendation implementation, tracking follow-up actions, and monitoring responses from audited entities. This contribution is crucial for strengthening audit follow-up processes and enhancing public accountability within the SAI. The role also includes generating and validating reports, identifying areas for improvement in the tool's functionality and user adoption, and providing ad hoc support for related activities.
Responsibilities
The Database Associate will be responsible for uploading all relevant audit reports and supporting documents from 2022 onwards into the Audit Recommendation Tracking Tool, ensuring complete and accurate data entry for each record. This includes populating the database according to agreed conventions and verifying findings extracted by the tool. The role involves data verification, cleaning, and quality assurance by cross-referencing recommendations and extracted data with source reports, identifying and correcting errors, and maintaining a data verification log. The associate will update recommendation implementation status and supporting evidence, record follow-up dates, and compile available follow-up records. Additionally, the volunteer will support follow-up communication by preparing letters or email lists for audited entities, maintaining a tracker of communications, and ensuring follow-up requests are clear. Monitoring responses, entering updates, and flagging overdue items are key tasks. The role also includes generating and validating audit and auditee-level reports, documenting reporting issues, and recommending improvements. Continuous improvement involves identifying recurring data issues and workflow constraints, and providing recommendations for tool enhancement. Finally, the associate will review and edit generated reports in consultation with the SAI and provide general support for related activities.
Work Experience
A minimum of one month of relevant experience is required, specifically in working with databases, spreadsheets, or information management systems. Experience with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word), strong attention to detail, analytical and organizational skills, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are essential. Experience with audit processes or public sector entities is desirable.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, judgment, decision-making, planning, organization, professionalism, self-management, integrity, attention to detail, and communication. Technical skills include proficiency in database management, spreadsheet software (especially Excel), and general information management systems. Familiarity with administration, finance, or accounting is also relevant.