Deadline for Applications November 19, 2026 Hardship Level A (least hardship) Family Type Family Residential location (if applicable) Grade GS5 Staff Member / Affiliate Type General Service Reason Regular > Regular Assignment Target Start Date 2027-02-01 Standard Job Description Senior Programme Assistant Organizational Setting and Work Relationships The Senior Programme Assistant would normally receive guidance from more senior programme staff in the operation/bureau/division. The incumbent may receive indirect guidance from other sections and units relevant to the country/region programme(s). UNHCR Manual, Operations Plans, UN and UNHCR financial/budgetary rules and regulations will guide the work of the Senior Program Assistant. S/he is expected to have contacts within the organization and outside the duty station, as well as with partners and other stakeholders to collect information, monitor programme activities and implement administrative requirements. The incumbent is expected to work in line with the multi-functional team (MFT) approach as defined within the Program Manual, ensuring the participation of relevant stakeholders in all phases of the Program Management Cycle. All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity. Duties - Provide administrative assistance and support in routine services and activities within Programme thus better able to meet the needs of persons of concern. - Assist in organizing and documenting the selection of partners in accordance with the policy on selection and retention of partners, ensuring due diligence to meet the requirements of projects. - Provide support to ensure partnership agreements are established in a timely manner, regularly monitored and reported on, in compliance with established guidelines and procedures included in the framework for implementing with partners. - Guided by the MFT approach, support the development and implementation of monitoring plans for activities implemented through partnerships and those under direct implementation in line with Programme Manual and programming instructions. - Contribute to the review and analysis of operations plans, mid-year and year-end reports, ensuring quality assurance and compliance with established policies, guidelines, procedures and standards. Generate and maintain records of implementation rate (performance progress and expenditures) on a regular basis. - Assist in ensuring compliance with issuance of audit certificates for partners in line with the Policy on Risk-Based Project Audits. - Use UNHCR's ERP system for core activities related to planning, budgeting, implementation and reporting, generating data for evidence-based programmatic decisions and analysis. - Actively contribute to UNHCRs programming of community of practice and continuously contributing to improvements of programming tools and processes. - Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s). - Perform other related duties as required. Minimum Qualifications Education & Professional Work Experience Years of Experience / Degree Level G5 - 2 years relevant experience with High School Diploma; or 1 year relevant work experience with Bachelor or equivalent or higher Field(s) of Education Not applicable Certificates and/or Licenses Not specified Relevant Job Experience Essential Demonstrated experience in Programme Management, Operation Management Cycle and related processes. Knowledge of Results Based-Management. Computer skills (in MS office) including advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, data management, etc) Desirable Completion of UNHCR Learning Programmes or specific training relevant to function of the position including Programme Management Level 1. E-tutoring of PM1, Framework for Implementing with Partners Learning Programme. Experience in programme management training and capacity building activities. Functional Skills *IT-Computer Literacy PG-Programme Management (programme cycles and reporting standards) PG-Results-Based Management DM-Database Management PG-Programme Analysis (Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential) Language Requirements For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English. For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language. For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English. All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power. As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise. This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates. Desired Candidate Profile The ideal candidate demonstrates proven experience supporting programme management functions in humanitarian or development settings, particularly in grants and partnership management, Cash-Based Interventions (CBI), financial monitoring and reporting, and the monitoring of programme performance and results. A strong knowledge of Results-Based Management and experience working with civil society and/or refugee-led organizations is essential for this role. The candidate should possess proven ability to organize and analyze programme, partnership, and financial information, maintain attention to detail, and contribute to monitoring and reporting processes. Demonstrated experience supporting the end-to-end delivery of Cash-Based Interventions (CBI), including beneficiary data management, eligibility verification, payment processing and reconciliation, monitoring of cash assistance delivery, coordination with partners and financial service providers, and reporting on programme performance and outcomes is highly desirable. Advanced computer skills and proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis, pivot tables, and advanced reporting functions is essential. Proficiency in UNHCR RBM and corporate systems, including COMPASS, PROMS, Cloud ERP, CashAssist, and Power BI is highly desirable. The position requires strong analytical, organizational, and time-management skills, with demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, monitor competing deadlines, and deliver high-quality outputs in a fast-paced operational environment. The incumbent should be able to work independently and exercise sound judgment in identifying issues, proposing practical solutions, and supporting timely follow-up on programme activities. The role also requires effective collaboration with diverse internal and external stakeholders, adaptability to evolving operational priorities, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement to support evidence-based programming, accountability to affected populations, and the achievement of programme results. Fluency in English and Portuguese is a requirement. Working knowledge in Spanish is an asset. Required languages (expected Overall ability is at least B2 level): Portuguese , English , Desired languages , , Operational context Occupational Safety and Health Considerations: To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel. Nature of Position: Brazil hosts an expansive and diverse refugee population, more than 1 Million individuals requiring international protection. The country serves as a vital entry point for refugees primarily from Venezuela, entering through the state of Roraima, and from countries such as Afghanistan, Haiti, Syria, and Ukraine, arriving via humanitarian visas through São Paulo international airport. There has been a notable increase in the number of Cuban asylum-seekers, highlighting Brazil's evolving refugee demographics. UNHCR collaborates closely with the Brazilian government alongside civil society, academia, private sector, and development actors, to facilitate access to basic rights and promote socio-economic integration for refugees. This includes bolstering national and local policies for receiving, protecting, and integrating refugees and other individuals in need of protection. UNHCR's protection efforts extend across the country, targeting vulnerable groups such as survivors of gender-based violence, indigenous populations, and unaccompanied children. Despite Brazil's robust legal framework granting refugees equal rights and unrestricted access to public services, practical challenges remain. Refugees face barriers such as language differences, limited local service capacity, and status-specific impediments affecting their full economic participation. National strategies like Operation Welcome address these challenges, setting standards for reception and assistance, and facilitating relocation across Brazil to foster integration, particularly for the Venezuelan population. Special attention is required for indigenous refugees from Venezuela, who experience significant socio-economic integration obstacles. Tailored initiatives are essential to support their transition from emergency shelters while respecting cultural rights. With the recent influx of Afghan refugees, particularly following the humanitarian visa policy, the local systems in São Paulo are adapting to manage increased arrivals and new community dynamics. Similarly, the growing Cuban refugee population poses challenges requiring UNHCR's continued support in documentation and integration. The Multi-Year Multi-Partner Strategy for Brazil (2026–2029) aims to enhance local integration as a priority, leveraging Brazil's leadership in refugee protection to fortify access to rights through the forthcoming National Policy on Migration, Asylum, and Statelessness. However, challenges such as housing precarity, organized crime vulnerabilities, and socio-economic barriers for women and girls remain significant obstacles that need addressing to ensure successful integration. UNHCR's vision is that by 2029, forcibly displaced and stateless people in Brazil will enjoy a safe, inclusive, and sustainable environment, with fully protected rights and pathways to self-reliance and societal integration. The Senior Programme Assistant will be an integral part of the Programme Unit in Brasilia, working under the direct supervision of the Associate Programme Officer, and supports the effective delivery of UNHCR programmes across Brazil in a complex and evolving operational environment. The incumbent contributes to programme planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting, with particular responsibility for grants and partnership management, Cash-Based Interventions (CBI), resource tracking, and programme performance monitoring. The position requires strong cross-functional collaboration skills and the ability to effectively coordinate and communicate with internal and external stakeholders, including colleagues at the Country Office in Brasília, field offices across Brazil, the Regional Bureau, partners, and other key stakeholders. Living and Working Conditions: Brasília, the capital of Brazil, is classified as A family duty station and offers a high standard of living compared to many locations in the region. As the seat of the Federal Government and host to numerous embassies, international organizations, and UN agencies, the city provides a stable and professional working environment. The city has well-developed infrastructure, including reliable utilities, internet connectivity, public transportation, and access to a wide range of commercial and banking services. Housing is readily available, with options ranging from apartments in the city center to family homes in residential neighborhoods. Rental prices vary depending on location and size but are generally higher in central areas. Brasília offers high-quality healthcare through both public and private facilities. Several internationally recognized hospitals and medical centers are available, and a wide range of specialists can be accessed. International and bilingual schools are also available, making the city suitable for staff members relocating with family. The security situation is generally stable. As in any large urban center, standard security precautions are recommended, particularly regarding personal belongings and movement in certain areas after dark. However, Brasília is considered safer than many other major Brazilian metropolitan areas. The climate is tropical savanna, characterized by a dry season from May to September and a rainy season from October to April. Temperatures remain generally mild throughout the year, typically ranging between 15°C and 30°C. The working environment is professional and multicultural, with frequent interaction among government institutions, diplomatic missions, international organizations, civil society, and development partners. English, Portuguese, and Spanish are commonly used within the international community. Brasília offers a good quality of life, with extensive green spaces, recreational facilities, cultural events, restaurants, and sports opportunities. The city's unique architecture, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contributes to a pleasant living environment and a strong sense of community among expatriates and national staff. Overall, Brasília provides comfortable living conditions, reliable services, quality healthcare and education, and a conducive environment for both professional and family life. Additional Qualifications Skills DM-Database Management, IT-Computer Literacy, PG-Programme Analysis, PG-Programme Management (programme cycles and reporting standards), PG-Results-Based Management Education Certifications HCR Learning Program - UNHCR Work Experience Competencies Accountability, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Empowering & building trust, Organizational awareness, Stakeholder management, Teamwork & collaboration UNHCR Salary Calculator https://icsc.un.org/Home/SalaryScales Compendium Additional Information Functional clearance This position doesn't require a functional clearance If you are a former UNHCR international staff member who held a fixed-term or indefinite appointment, you can apply to regular positions in the international professional category as candidate with UNHCR-experience (within 2 years following separation for males and 5 years for females). To apply to vacancies, please create a new account (“Sign In” on the top left corner >> Create account) or sign into your account, if you have already registered via the external career site. Once successfully registered/signed in, you can start filling in your data and apply for vacancies. If you are former UNHCR locally recruited staff member who held a fixed-term or indefinite appointment, you can apply to regular positions in your staff category as candidate with UNHCR-experience (within 2 years following separation for males and 5 years for females). To apply to vacancies, please create a new account (“Sign In” on the top left corner >> Create account) or sign into your account, if you have already registered via the external career site. Once successfully registered/signed in, you can start filling in your data and apply for vacancies. If you do not fall under any of the above categories, please use the External Career site for applying to vacancies. Technical notes: Once you fill in your basic personal information (employee ID, birth date, name, email address), Workday will identify you as prior personnel and merge your employee account with your external applicant account. If you were notified about unsuccessful application, please follow the steps described in the message. While you will not see the list of your employee-time applications in your external account, you will be duly notified if any action is required from your side and/or when the recruitment process is completed. In case you would like to update your name, address or phone number or you face any technical difficulties when applying, please write to [email protected]. Please note that UNHCR does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, meeting, travelling, processing or training). Read about how to avoid scams and fraudulent job offers. Please note that applications are only accepted via the online recruitment platform. CVs and/or application requests sent via email will not be answered, reviewed nor considered. The UNHCR workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages and opinions. UNHCR seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce. Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates without distinction on grounds of race, colour, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, takes the lead in protecting people forced to flee wars and persecution around the world, providing life-saving aid including shelter, food and water to ensure their basic safety, rights and dignity. With 18,879 women and men working in 137 countries, we work tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of 89.3 million forcibly displaced people worldwide. Our dedicated and professional staff work around the clock in roles including legal protection, community services, public affairs, health and more. Despite the challenges they can face, our staff are proud to work for UNHCR and determined to make a positive impact. Why a career with UNHCR? Our dedicated staff work to protect and assist people fleeing conflict and persecution at a time when global forced displacement is at a record high. Our colleagues bring a wide range of specialized skills, including expertise in legal protection, administration, community services, public affairs, health and other disciplines. Disability inclusion If you are a person with a disability and you expect you may face challenges during the recruitment process, you can indicate it in your application form. There are options to select any health conditions you may have and outline any necessary adjustments related to disabilities during the recruitment phases. Providing this information is optional. It will be treated as strictly confidential and used only for the purpose of finding out how to better assist you during the recruitment process. Adjustments for candidates with disabilities will be provided as best as possible and as needed upon request. All candidates will be assessed based on meeting the requirements for each vacancy in relation to experience, skills, and education.

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