UNEP is Seeking a Programme Management Assistant in Pretoria, South Africa – Apply By 16 May 2026

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has announced a new employment opportunity for a Programme Management Assistant at its Southern Africa Sub-Regional Office in Pretoria, South Africa. The position is offered at the General Service G-5 level and presents an opportunity for experienced administrative and programme support professionals to contribute to regional environmental and sustainable development initiatives under the United Nations system.

The role supports UNEP’s efforts to address climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and environmental sustainability challenges across Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries.

About the Opportunity

The Programme Management Assistant will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the Southern Africa Sub-Regional Office. The selected candidate will support programme coordination, project administration, budgeting, reporting, and general office operations linked to UNEP’s regional environmental initiatives.

The Southern Africa Sub-Regional Office plays a key role in supporting countries within the SADC region in responding to the triple planetary crisis of:

• Climate change
• Nature and biodiversity loss
• Pollution and waste

The office also supports countries in implementing sustainable environmental solutions that contribute to broader socio-economic development goals.

Key Responsibilities

The Programme Management Assistant will provide administrative, financial, and programme support across a range of operational areas.

Main responsibilities include:

Programme and Project Support

• Assisting in programme and project planning activities
• Monitoring project proposals and documentation
• Reviewing project documents and budgets for compliance
• Tracking project implementation and delivery progress
• Compiling programme data and preparing reports

Budget and Financial Administration

• Reviewing budget revisions and verifying fund availability
• Supporting payment processing and financial monitoring
• Drafting budget-related correspondence and reports
• Monitoring project expenditures and identifying budget shortfalls

Administrative Coordination

• Coordinating recruitment, travel arrangements, procurement, and logistical processes
• Organising meetings, workshops, and training activities
• Maintaining office records, files, and correspondence systems
• Responding to information requests and administrative inquiries

Data and Reporting Support

• Assisting with data collection and analysis
• Preparing presentations, statistical summaries, and reporting materials
• Supporting knowledge management and information-sharing activities
• Updating communication materials such as brochures and web content

The role also includes providing guidance and support to junior staff members when required.

Required Qualifications

Applicants must possess:

• Completion of secondary school education or equivalent
• Supplementary training in:
  • Administration
  • Human Resources
  • Budget Management
  • Information Technology
  • Related fields

Professional Experience Requirements

Candidates are required to demonstrate:

• Minimum of five years of experience in:
  • Programme administration
  • Project coordination
  • Technical cooperation
  • Related operational support functions

Applicants with a first-level university degree may qualify with a minimum of three years of relevant experience.

Desirable Experience

UNEP indicated that the following experience would be advantageous:

• Experience working with the United Nations or similar international organisations
• Experience in data analytics or related technical areas
• Knowledge of programme budgeting and financial systems
• Exposure to international development or environmental programmes

Required Competencies

The organisation is seeking candidates with strong professional and interpersonal skills, including:

Professionalism

• Knowledge of programme and project administration procedures
• Ability to analyse data and work with figures
• Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to manage deadlines and multiple assignments effectively

Communication Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to draft reports and correspondence clearly and accurately
• Effective interpersonal communication and collaboration skills

Teamwork

• Ability to work collaboratively in multicultural environments
• Willingness to contribute to shared organisational goals
• Respect for diversity and inclusive workplace values

Language Requirements

Fluency in English is required for the position.

English proficiency is required across:

• Reading
• Writing
• Listening
• Speaking

Contract Information

• Position: Programme Management Assistant
• Level: G-5
• Duty Station: Pretoria, South Africa
• Organisation: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
• Contract Duration: Initial one-year appointment with possibility of extension
• Application Deadline: 16 May 2026

The role is subject to local recruitment regulations, meaning candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office.

Important Recruitment Information

UNEP has emphasised that:

• Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
• Applications must be submitted online through the official UN recruitment system
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• The United Nations does not charge any application or recruitment fees

Applicants are advised to complete all sections of the online application carefully, including professional experience and contact information.

Why This Opportunity Matters

This role provides professionals with an opportunity to contribute to major environmental and sustainable development initiatives within Southern Africa while working within the United Nations system.

As climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation increasingly affect the region, programme coordination and administrative support functions remain critical to the successful delivery of environmental programmes and international cooperation efforts.

The position also offers valuable exposure to UN operations, regional environmental governance, and international development programming.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.