Welcome to the Start of your journey towards becoming a Programme Officer!

Thank you for your interest in the talent pipeline for Programme Officer—an essential role at the core of the UN’s work. We are excited to help you explore what it means to be a Programme Officer in the UN Secretariat. Read on to discover the role, and the requirements needed to join this talent pipeline.

What does a “Programme Officer” do at the UN?

As a Programme Officer, you will be at the heart of the UN’s global efforts to design, implement, and evaluate projects and programmes that make a lasting impact. From managing international programmes to working with multiple stakeholders, you’ll handle everything from planning and budget oversight to monitoring and evaluating progress. Your ability to lead, analyze, and collaborate will be key to driving success in diverse initiatives, ensuring they meet the UN’s goals and deliver tangible results. Your responsibilities will involve taking the lead to develop, implement and evaluate assigned programmes/projects, provide advisory services to Secretariat entities in the areas of property management, capital planning and project management, ensuring implementation of gender mainstreaming guidelines, directing research and programme evaluation, and coordinating policy development. You need to undertake survey initiatives and supervise preparation of various written outputs. You are required to direct substantive support to consultative and other meetings, conferences, etc., to manage outreach activities and lead field missions. Your expertise is needed to establish collaboration and partnerships with key stakeholders at all levels inside and outside the organization, in support of project implementation. You are also required to lead team members' efforts to collect and analyze data and provide insight to identify trends or patterns for data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting. You will serve as an effective spokesperson and establish collaboration and partnerships with key stakeholders at all levels inside and outside the organization, in support of project implementation.

Are you ready for this role?

To join the “Programme Officer” talent pipeline, here’s what’s required.

Education: An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in business administration, management, economics, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a master’s degree.

Experience: A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in program or project management, administration, or related areas. Two years or more of experience in data analytics or managing multi-stakeholder projects is desirable.

Language: Have at least an intermediate level of English in all four areas (reading, writing, listening and speaking).

Knowledge, skills, and capabilities: You should have Expertise in project management, research, and analytical skills, along with strong communication and collaboration abilities for evaluating, reporting, and solving issues in programmes and projects. Proficiency in data analysis and visualization, as well as knowledge of theories, concepts, and approaches relevant to specialized fields. Skills in identifying, analyzing, and resolving issues, coupled with the ability to conduct data collection using various methods. Familiarity with electronic research sources, including internet, intranet, and databases, supports independent research and analysis. Ability to interpret data, provide insights for decision-making, and convey information effectively to management. Skills  in monitoring and evaluation frameworks for projects. Proficiency in budget oversight and resource allocation for program efficiency. Expertise in multi-sectoral partnerships, including government and civil society.

Take the leap—Your future awaits:

You have made an excellent choice in selecting the Programme Officer talent pipeline! Now, it is time to prepare yourself for the exciting opportunities ahead. The UN Talent Pipeline will provide you with the training, mentorship and resources needed to excel. However, it is important to remember that this is a capacity-building program, not a direct job offer.

Apply today to join the talent pipeline and take the next step toward a future where you can make a meaningful impact as a Programme Officer, contributing to the mission of the United Nations.