Project Support Officer

Mission and objectives

UN Women is the global champion for gender equality, working to develop and uphold standards and create an environment in which every woman and girl can exercise her human rights and live up to her full potential. We are trusted partners for advocates and decision-makers from all walks of life, and a leader in the effort to achieve gender equality.

Context

UN Women, grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action and peace and security. Reporting to Program Specialist on Women Peace and Security, the UN Volunteer provides programme support for the effective management of UN Women programmes in the CO/RO by contributing to programme design, formulation, implementation, and evaluation. The UN Volunteer supports the delivery of UN Women programmes by analysing results achieved during implementation and supporting the appropriate application of systems and procedures. The UN Volunteer works closely with the programme and operations team, UN Women HQ staff, Government officials, multilateral and bilateral donors, and civil society to ensure successful UN Women programme implementation under the portfolio.

Task Description

1. Supports programme implementation focusing on achievement of the following results: • Compilation of background information for formulation of programme, draft project documents, work plans, budgets, proposals on implementation arrangements. • Provide necessary operational support for implementation of programme activities with particular focus on ensuring communication and flow of information among the partners. 3. Provides effective support on monitoring and evaluation focusing on the achievement of the following results: • Support the Unit Manager in compilation of monitoring information to prepare progress reports. • Assist the Unit Manager in the elaboration of periodic reports for all sources of fund. • Monitor application/disbursement of funds transferred to partners. 4. Supports knowledge building and knowledge sharing focusing on achievement of the following results: • Assist the Unit Manager to develop and conduct training. • Participation in the trainings for the operations/projects staff on programme. • Contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice. 5. Provide inputs to advocacy, knowledge building and communication efforts: • Provide technical inputs to background documents, briefs, and presentations related to Women, Peace and Security; • Support the organization of advocacy activities and campaign events, trainings, workshops, and knowledge products. • Provide inputs to the development of knowledge management products on Women, Peace and Security and governance. 6. The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Competencies and values

• Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Creativity • Judgement and decision-making • Planning and organising • Professionalism • Self-management

Living conditions and remarks

Sierra Leone offers a dynamic and culturally rich environment, with Freetown serving as the main urban hub while Tonkolili, Kono, and Western Area Rural provide more rural and semi‑urban contexts. The security situation is generally stable, though volunteers are expected to remain vigilant and adhere to UN security protocols. Air travel is available through Lungi International Airport, with domestic transport options limited and sometimes challenging due to road conditions. The climate is tropical, with a rainy season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. Volunteers should be prepared for high humidity and occasional flooding in certain areas. Cultural norms emphasize modest dress and respect for local traditions; alcohol use is socially sensitive outside urban centres. The cost of living varies: Freetown is relatively expensive compared to rural duty stations, particularly for imported goods. Accommodation options range from serviced apartments in Freetown to more basic housing in rural areas. Access to food, water, and electricity is generally reliable in Freetown but can be intermittent in Tonkolili and Kono. Medical facilities are available in Freetown, though specialized care may require evacuation. Banking services and mobile communications are accessible, with mobile money widely used. Overall, Sierra Leone provides an enriching environment for volunteers, requiring adaptability, cultural awareness, and resilience. Flexibility and commitment are essential, particularly in rural duty stations where living conditions may involve limited comfort and physical hardship. You may check the full benefits and allowances applicable to the duty station using the UVP calculator. Please see the Conditions of Service for UN Volunteers for more information and details.”