YPP Exam: Information Systems & Technology, P2 at Department of Operational Support

Responsibilities

• The Young Professionals Programme examination in Information Systems & Technology covers a wide range of topics in the areas of development and operation of information systems, electronic data processing, computer system architecture, cybersecurity engineering and architecture, programming and analysis, operating systems, database management systems, network infrastructure, information security, and other related topics. If you are successful in the examination, you could be assigned to a job that covers any or a combination of these areas.
• The typical job in this area is Associate Information Systems Officer. Some of the key responsibilities of an Associate Information Systems Officer would be (These duties are generic and may not be carried out by all Associate Information Systems Officers.):
• Assists in the design, development, installation and operation of information systems, including systems analysis, programming and operation support.
• Participates in the preparation of user requirements and other technical specifications.
• Analyses modules within the system, develops enhancements and new features to existing systems.
• Undertakes rigorous testing to assess the feasibility of applications software.
• Assists in the analysis of various issues and problems in conjunction with personnel of organizational units and makes recommendations on the feasibility and cost benefits of implementing information technology solutions.
• Undertakes technical evaluation on the acquisition of information technology equipment and services.
• Perform general cybersecurity responsibilities such as protecting an organization's computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. This involves a range of activities, including risk assessment and management, development and implementation of SOPs and guidelines, vulnerability testing and management, incident response, security monitoring and analysis and training and awareness programmes on cybersecurity, and participates in developing and maintaining disaster recovery plans.
• Prepares, updates and maintains system and programme documentation and related technical/operational manuals.
• Assists in procurement exercises, including conducting needs assessments and benchmarks, preparing technical specifications and evaluation criteria.
• Assists in the set-up and monitoring of software and IT service performance measures.
• Participates in Service Desk support functions.
• Advises users on the most suitable software for different tasks; maintains and enhances software.
• Drafts training materials and conducts training sessions and demonstrations of systems for users.

Competencies
Professionalism:

• Shows pride in work and in achievements
• Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter
• Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results
• Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns
• Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges
• Remains calm in stressful situations
• Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work

Technological Awareness:

1. Keeps abreast of available technology
2. Understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the Office
3. Actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks
4. Shows willingness to learn new technology

Communication:

• Speaks and writes clearly and effectively
• Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately
• Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication
• Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience
• Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed

Education

• At least a first-level university degree (i.e., Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent degree of at least three years) in an area of study relevant to Information Systems & Technology. Degrees accepted must be in one of the following areas (to be selected from the “Main Course of Study” dropdown menu):
• Computing; Mathematics & Statistics; Engineering & Engineering Trades; Business & Administration; Physical Sciences
• Important: when preparing your application in Inspira, if you do not see your exact degree listed, please choose the field of study that is closest to your degree, from the “Field of Study” and “Main Course of Study” dropdown menus; then type the exact title in original language as well as its translation in English or French in the additional comment boxes. Do NOT select “other” for main course of study or field of study (or you will be automatically disqualified).¿¿

Work Experience

• No work experience is required. Relevant work experience may be taken into consideration as an additional screening criteria when more than 60 candidates from the same country apply to the same exam area.

Languages

• Fluency (speaking, reading, writing, understanding fluently) in one of the working languages of the UN Secretariat, English or French, is required; knowledge of the other is desirable. Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.