Lead Software Solutions Engineer (GS-7)
United Nations University (UNU)
Associate Full-time Locallly Recruited The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System. UNU engages in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The work of UNU contributes to solving pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.
For the past five decades, UNU has been a source of impartial research on sustainability, human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers working at institutes in 12 countries, UNU's expertise spans the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change. UNU collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions across the globe. For more information, please visit http://unu.edu
Within UNU, the Campus Computing Centre (C3) is the University’s technology arm and a driving force for innovation, leveraging information and communication technologies (ICT) to support and advance UNU’s vision and mission. C3 serves the entire University community, ensuring that staff, faculty, and students can make the most effective and appropriate use of computing resources across teaching, research, outreach, knowledge sharing, administration, and academic support. Learn more at: https://c3.unu.edu
In this pivotal role, the Lead Software Development Engineer will generate ideas, design creative solutions, and enhance existing systems using forward thinking approaches. They will transform initial concepts into robust, impactful applications that support the UNU’s global mission.
The successful incumbent will thrive in a collaborative, user focused setting, working closely with colleagues and stakeholders to understand their needs, solve problems, and deliver reliable, high-quality tools and services. A passion for leveraging cutting edge technology to make a meaningful difference will be essential for success in this position.
1. Full Stack Web Development and Workflow Automation
Leverage advanced PHP expertise to develop and maintain secure, performant front end and back end systems using Laravel and other frameworks/platforms (e.g., WordPress, Symfony).
Build responsive web applications using JavaScript (ES6), ReactJS, and Tailwind CSS.
Design and implement RESTful web services for efficient data management and interaction.
Create streamlined workflows using Microsoft Flows, Zapier, and n8n, and integrate automation with internal applications to optimize processes.
2. Cloud Infrastructure and DevOps
Manage AWS services (e.g., EC2, ECS, ELB) to ensure high availability and performance.
Implement CI/CD pipelines using Jenkins, GitLab CI, or AWS Code Pipeline.
Utilize Docker for containerization and Docker Compose for multi container application management.
3. System Integration and Customization
Develop custom integrations and extensions to ensure seamless data flow between public facing platforms, intranet, and other internal systems.
Create tailored solutions to address specific organizational needs and user requirements across platforms.
Optimize performance and user experience of integrated systems for both external and internal users.
4. Public Facing Web Platform Development
Design and implement scalable, secure, user friendly features for external audiences.
Ensure compliance with web accessibility standards and best practices.
Collaborate with UX/UI designers and content creators to deliver an engaging online presence.
5. Microsoft 365 Ecosystem Integration
Develop Microsoft 365 Add ins and integrated applications.
Implement Microsoft Graph APIs for cross service data interactions.
Utilize Microsoft Entra for secure identity and access management.
6. Security and Authentication
Implement federated authentication for secure access to APIs and applications.
Ensure robust data protection and user privacy across applications.
7. Project Management and Quality Assurance
Manage development milestones from concept to delivery; orchestrate large scale deployments and testing.
Conduct code reviews and implement testing protocols to ensure high quality deliverables.
8. Innovation and Emerging Technologies
Apply AI to enhance purpose fit solutions.
Transform concepts into detailed project plans aligned with organizational goals.
Continuously improve workflows, processes, and software solutions to meet evolving needs.
10. Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Software Quality: Quality and reliability of software applications developed.
Innovation: Implementation of innovative solutions and enhancements.
Collaboration: Effectiveness in collaborating with stakeholders and team members.
Project Management: Timeliness and quality of contributions towards projects.
Values:
Inclusion — take action to create an environment of dignity and respect for all, regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, geography, grade, language, nationality, racial identity, religion, sex, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, social origin or any other aspect of identity
Integrity — act ethically, demonstrating the standards of conduct of the United Nations and taking prompt action in case of witnessing unprofessional or unethical behaviour, or any other breach of UN standards
Humility — demonstrate self-awareness and willingness to learn from others
Humanity — act according to the purposes of the United Nations: peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet
Behaviours:
Connect and collaborate — build positive relationships with others to advance the work of the United Nations and work coherently as One UN
Analyse and plan — seek out and use data from a wide range of sources to understand problems, inform decision-making, propose evidence-based solutions and plan action
Deliver results with positive impact — hold oneself and others accountable for delivering results and making a positive difference to the people and causes that the United Nations serves
Learn and develop — pursue own learning and development and contribute to the learning and development of others
Adapt and innovate — demonstrate flexibility, agility and the ability to think and act in novel ways
1) Education and certification
High school diploma or Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in computer science, information technology, or a related field.
2) Required skills and experience
High school diploma with seven (7) years, OR Bachelor’s degree with five (5) years of relevant working experience in software development.
Proficiency in programming languages (e.g., PHP, JavaScript, Python, Java, C++) and software development frameworks.
Expertise in cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
Experience utilizing AI to build and enhance software applications; ability to optimize software and systems for performance and scalability.
Experience integrating Microsoft 365 with third party digital solutions.
Excellent command of written and spoken English.
3) Language Requirements
Fluency in English is required.
Knowledge of another UN official working language is an asset
UNU offers an attractive, tax exempt compensation package including an annual net salary (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), 30 days annual leave, dependency benefits, pension plan and health insurance scheme. For more information please see: https://careers.un.org/lbw/home.aspx?viewtype=SAL
This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment. The initial appointment will be for one (1) year with the possibility of renewal on a fixed-term appointment basis, subject to satisfactory work performance.
For academic positions, the combined duration of fixed-term appointments with UNU may not exceed six (6) years. The mandatory age of retirement for United Nations staff is 65 years.
1 January 2026
To apply to UNU, you will not need an account. Instead, we ask that you:
Apply via the apply link;
fill out the UNU P11 Form (please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organisations);
provide a motivation statement (in the P11 form); and
answer a few questions that are tailored to the position.
You may wish to refer to the UN Values and Behaviours Framework for more information.
31 October 2025
Submissions must be received by 11.59 p.m. Japan time on the deadline; late entries will not be accepted.
Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by a competency-based interview, background checks and references.
Staff members of the United Nations University are international civil servants subject to the Rector's authority. They may be assigned to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations University. The Rector reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a level below that advertised.
UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply and become part of the organisation. Applications from developing countries, and from women are strongly encouraged. Eligible internal applicants are also encouraged to apply.
UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.
If you have supervisory function you need to have awareness on gender related issues.
UNU reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNU.
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