ICT Associate

Job Highlight

Empower global change by driving ICT innovation, fostering knowledge sharing, and safeguarding information security, directly contributing to UNOPS projects that transform lives worldwide.

About The Project Office

Since 1995, UNOPS has maintained an active presence in Afghanistan, delivering efficient, agile services in support of both humanitarian response and development efforts. Prior to August 2021, the Afghanistan Country Office (AFCO) implemented projects across a broad range of sectors, including infrastructure, procurement, capacity building, and environmental protection. In response to evolving humanitarian needs, AFCO has shifted its focus to supporting life-saving initiatives and basic human needs. Current priorities include managing large-scale cash-for-work programmes, procuring emergency supplies, and providing inter-agency coordination, communication, and accountability support.

Role Purpose

The Information Communication Technology (ICT) Associate ensures the secure, effective and client-focused delivery of ICT services in line with UNOPS rules and frameworks. The role supports ICT strategy implementation, oversees infrastructure and systems management, and provides technical guidance to enhance service quality, operational reliability, and user satisfaction. The incumbent also contributes to network and systems administration, business continuity, supervision of ICT personnel, and coordination with HQ and other UN entities.

Functions / Key Results Expected

ICT Client Services, Management and Administration

• Implement ICT and operational strategies compliant with UNOPS rules, regulations, policies and framework.
• Provide fast, friendly, and effective user support.
• Advise on information technology (IT) and systems planning exercises and participate in similar exercises across UNOPS.
• Contribute to the development of ICT standards and strategies within the office.
• Maintain inventory of all computer, audio-visual communications equipment, and software in compliance with UNOPS asset management policy.
• Interact with HQ and ICT personnel from other UN agencies to share and exchange information and expertise on applications and tools.
• Ensure effective functioning of all UNOPS hardware equipment, including installation, operation and maintenance.
• Support the acquisition of hardware supplies and approved software, ensuring timely application of updates and patches.
• Oversee assigned information and communication services and managed projects.
• Provide effective advice on all project implementation activities involving ICT; the hardware and software procurement process; and establishment and maintenance of a roster of potential suppliers.
• Network actively with clients, addressing and improving common areas of concern.
• Provide consulting services, ICT audit inspections and/or facilitation of selection/ deployment of software to projects, seeking technical advice and support from HQ ICT personnel as required.
• Liaise with UNOPS HQ and other relevant units to determine hardware and software requirements.
• Act as UNOPS' liaison with local UN partner agencies on issues relating to UNOPS ICT.
  
  

• Maintain network and internet connectivity to ensure stable operations, adequate bandwidth, and reliable access to internet and HQ based systems.
• Validate hardware maintenance agreements to support timely resolution of hardware failures.
• Ensure a stable and responsive network environment through daily monitoring of network performance.
• Safeguard the confidentiality, integrity and availability of UNOPS ICT systems and information assets.
• Monitor and maintain proper data backups, and support measures for business continuity and disaster recovery.
• Maintain the effective operation of video conferencing and telephony systems.
  
  

• Support the organization, facilitation and delivery of training and learnings sessions on ICT client services, management and administration.
• Participate in knowledge-sharing initiatives and Communities of Practice (CoPs), contributing insights and lessons learned.
• Conduct research on ICT-related topics and contribute to the drafting of reports, summaries and briefing notes.
  
  

• Secondary school (or equivalent) with 6 years of relevant experience OR
• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in any discipline with 2 years of relevant experience is required.
  
  

• Relevant globally recognized ICT professional certificates are desired.
  
  

• Relevant experience is work in information technology involving use of office software packages (MS Office 2010 and/or newer versions), Active Directory management, Windows servers and network infrastructure.
  
  

• Experience of working in multicultural environments or UN system organizations in a developing country is desired. Experience in development or humanitarian contexts is desired.