The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced an exciting career opportunity for qualified professionals seeking to contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and sustainable development. The position of Project Admin and Finance Associate (NPSA-6), based in Mount Hagen, Papua New Guinea, is open to all eligible applicants and offers a unique chance to work at the heart of community recovery and conflict transformation in one of the country’s most complex regions.
This role is part of UNDP’s broader mission to strengthen governance, promote social cohesion, and support vulnerable communities affected by conflict, particularly in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea. With a strong focus on administration, finance, and operational support, this position is ideal for professionals who are highly organized, detail-oriented, and motivated by public service.
About UNDP’s Work in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea
The Highlands region of Papua New Guinea has long experienced inter-group and intra-group violence, often driven by competition over political influence, land, resources, and limited access to justice systems. In many areas, violence has become a normalized response to disputes, deeply embedded in social and cultural practices.
UNDP plays a critical role in addressing these challenges through peacebuilding and post-conflict recovery initiatives. A key area of intervention is support for survivors of Sorcery-Accusation-Related Violence (SARV). UNDP provides emotional, physical, and material assistance to survivors while also engaging perpetrators in behavioral change processes, reconciliation, and reintegration efforts aimed at breaking cycles of retaliatory violence.
In addition, UNDP implements community-based peacebuilding projects that strengthen human security, social cohesion, and economic resilience. These projects focus on employment creation, small business development, youth empowerment, access to basic social services, and support for displaced populations..
Role Overview: Project Admin and Finance Associate
The Project Admin and Finance Associate plays a vital support role in ensuring that UNDP’s peacebuilding initiatives are implemented efficiently, transparently, and in compliance with organizational policies.
Working under the supervision of the Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Specialist, the incumbent collaborates closely with the Highlands Joint Programme Coordination Team, UNDP Country Office operations units, and the Security Unit.
This is a full-time national position under a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA), offered for one year with the possibility of extension, subject to performance and funding availability.
Key Responsibilities
1. Project Planning and Annual Work Plan (AWP) Formulation
The Associate contributes to the preparation and revision of Annual Work Plans by:
- Providing inputs to detailed implementation plans and budgets
- Assisting in the development of procurement and human resources plans
- Supporting periodic revisions to ensure alignment with UNDP Country Office procedures
- Coordinating logistics for workshops and meetings
- Preparing meeting minutes and contributing to research and reporting tasks
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2. Timely and Effective Project Implementation
To ensure smooth operations, the role involves:
- Initiating procurement and recruitment actions for consultants, goods, works, and services
- Preparing and compiling documentation in line with UNDP Standard Operating Procedures
- Creating and managing e-requisitions in the QUANTUM system
- Following up with relevant units on procurement, recruitment, travel, and payments
- Preparing travel authorizations, payment requests, and receipts
3. Efficient Project Administration
Administrative responsibilities include:
- Supervising driver work plans and maintaining vehicle logs
- Overseeing maintenance of project premises and UNDP assets
- Monitoring staff leave records and coordinating staff separation processes
- Managing asset inventories and supporting physical asset counts
- Coordinating ICT support and implementing security arrangements in collaboration with UNDP units
The incumbent may also perform additional duties as required to support the effective functioning of the office and the organization.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Education
- Secondary education is required
- A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or Public Administration is an advantage but not mandatory
Work Experience
- At least six (6) years of relevant experience with secondary education, or three (3) years with a bachelor’s degree
- Experience in administrative, programme, or project management support
- Proven experience working in complex or insecure settings, including peacebuilding or humanitarian contexts
- Experience with international organizations is highly desirable
- Knowledge of UN or UNDP policies and familiarity with the QUANTUM system are strong assets
Language Requirements
- Fluency in English and Tok Pisin is required
Core and Technical Competencies
UNDP seeks candidates who demonstrate:
- Strong planning, delivery, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to adapt to change and work effectively under pressure
- Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and ethical conduct
- Knowledge of finance, accounting, procurement, asset management, and travel policies
- Excellent communication, coordination, and organizational abilities
Commitment to Equality and Ethical Standards
UNDP is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. All recruitment decisions are based on merit, without discrimination. The organization maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward sexual harassment, exploitation, abuse of authority, and misconduct.
Applicants are advised that UNDP does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process and encourages candidates to remain vigilant against recruitment scams.
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Why Apply for This Role?
This position offers a unique opportunity to:
- Contribute directly to peacebuilding and community recovery efforts
- Gain valuable experience within the United Nations system
- Work in a challenging yet impactful environment
- Develop skills in project administration, finance, and operations
- Be part of a mission-driven organization committed to sustainable development and human dignity
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted before 13 January 2026 at 09:54. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
