UNICEF Is Hiring Programme Assistant (GS-4), Fixed Term Appointment – Iquitos, Peru: Support Critical Child-Focused Programmes
The UNICEF is seeking a dedicated Programme Assistant (GS-4) on a fixed-term appointment to join its Programme Section in Iquitos, Peru. This position presents a remarkable opportunity for candidates with administrative and programme support experience to contribute directly to UNICEF’s mission of saving children’s lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfil their potential in one of the most dynamic regions of the Peruvian Amazon.
UNICEF is active in more than 190 countries and territories, working to ensure every child thrives. For those committed to making a positive impact, this role offers a chance to grow professionally while supporting the delivery of essential programmes that address children’s health, education, protection and overall wellbeing.
About the Role and Organizational Context
The Programme Assistant position is part of UNICEF’s operational backbone, ensuring that programme planning, implementation, monitoring and administrative support functions are carried out efficiently. Positioned within the Programme Section, the incumbent will work under the supervision of a Programme Officer, providing vital support mechanisms that maintain the fluid delivery of programme activities.
The duty station, officially listed as Iquitos, Peru, reflects UNICEF Peru’s emphasis on subnational presence bringing programme support closer to communities in the Amazon region, a place with unique developmental challenges and opportunities. While the official system may still list the duty station differently, the operational reality places you at the heart of local action for children’s rights.
If you’re passionate about children’s issues, teamwork, and operational excellence, this role provides hands-on exposure to the life cycle of development programming within a globally respected organization.
Key Responsibilities
The Programme Assistant supports a variety of administrative, operational and procedural activities essential to programme success. These responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Programme and Project Support
- Assist in preparing, implementing and monitoring Annual Work Plans (AWPs) using established guidance and templates to ensure alignment with planned results.
- Enter and track transactions in UNICEF systems such as SAP/VISION, ensuring accurate data entry and expenditure tracking, and flagging discrepancies for supervisor action.
- Compile and organize inputs for programme reports, performance indicators and management dashboards using standard digital tools.
- Maintain coordination between programme and operations units by tracking procedural follow-ups and ensuring smooth delivery of programme outputs.
Administrative and Financial Support
- Assist with processing of contracts (for consultants, vendors and partners), including uploading Terms of Reference (TORs) and new activities into UNICEF systems.
- Provide administrative support for team scheduling, meeting coordination, minute-taking and filing of correspondence.
- Maintain tracking logs for staff leave and absences, and compile documents for budget monitoring and control.
- Support financial processes by collecting invoices and assisting with payment submission through appropriate systems.
Operational and Travel Logistics
- Assist with travel arrangements for team members in coordination with travel and HR focal points.
- Aid in procurement and inventory tracking for office supplies and equipment, ensuring operational readiness.
Event and Knowledge Management Support
- Provide logistical support for meetings, workshops and training sessions this includes venue booking, catering coordination, participant communication and preparation of background materials.
- Maintain organized digital and physical filing systems, support onboarding of new staff and assist colleagues in locating critical documents.
- Draft routine administrative communications such as updates and summaries.
Digital and Emergency Support
- Use approved digital tools, including data visualization and other UNICEF-standard systems, to support information organization and presentation.
- Provide emergency administrative support during surge periods, assisting with task prioritization as needed.
Qualifications and Skills Required
To qualify for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Education
- Completion of secondary education is required. Technical or university courses related to administrative or programme work are an advantage.
- A bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution may substitute for three years of relevant work experience.
Experience
- Minimum of 4 years of relevant administrative or clerical experience is required.
Skills and Competencies
- Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and UNICEF software such as SharePoint; familiarity with integrated management information systems is expected.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and maintain accurate records.
- Ability to work patiently and tactfully with diverse colleagues and stakeholders.
- High sense of confidentiality, initiative and sound judgment.
- Ability to function effectively within a team environment and support shared goals.
Languages
- Fluency in English is desirable. Knowledge of another UN language or local languages (e.g., Quechua, Aymara, Amazonic dialects) is considered an asset.
UNICEF Values and Competencies
UNICEF employees embody the core values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, Accountability and Sustainability (CRITAS) in every aspect of their work. Essential competencies for this role include the ability to:
- Build and maintain partnerships
- Demonstrate ethical and self-awareness
- Deliver results with impact
- Embrace innovation and change
- Manage complexity and ambiguity
- Think strategically
- Work collaboratively with others
Inclusive Recruitment and Safeguarding
UNICEF is committed to building a diverse, representative and inclusive workforce. Candidates from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities and indigenous language skills, are encouraged to apply. This position has also been assessed as having elevated risk for Child Safeguarding, requiring additional background checks and assessments.
UNICEF does not charge a fee during the recruitment process and maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy against exploitation, abuse and discrimination.
Application Deadline & How to Apply
- Job Title: Programme Assistant (GS-4), Fixed Term Appointment
- Location: Iquitos, Peru
- Job Number: 589324
- Deadline: 26 January 2026
Interested candidates should apply through the official UNICEF Careers portal and ensure all credentials and experience details are up to date.
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