United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI)
Internal/External Vacancy Announcement
Vacancy No. 053/2009; 054/2009 Deadline 13 June 2009
Post Title Database & Web Specialist (2 posts) Level NPO-B
Organizational Information & Analysis Unit (IAU), Location Amman
Unit Humanitarian, Reconstruction and
Development (HRDU)
VA Date: 01 June 2009
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Background: To strengthen information management and analysis in Iraq, the decision was taken to
form the Inter-Agency Information and Analysis Unit (IAU), a unit comprised of core staff from Office
of Coordinator for Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and UNAMI, with analysis provided by participating
UN agencies and NGOs. The IAU will liaise closely with the OCHA / UNAMI field coordination
structure, currently being established in Iraq.
The Database & Web Specialist will work to develop the systems and process data coming from
various sources and generate reports upon request and report to the Webmaster.
Responsibilities:
• Provides administrative and technical management of all facets of the IAU tools and applications,
consisting of 3W, Contact List, FMS, IAU Information etc. Participates in preparing user
requirements and other technical specifications. Assists in the development and implementation of
overall policies and procedures for the databases’ structure, format and usage, promotes
participation in and use of applications activities.
• Undertakes analysis of well-defined modules within the system, develop enhancements and new
features to existing systems. Establishes template formats and logical structures for applications, as
appropriate. Prepares, updates and maintains system’s documentation and related
technical/procedural manuals. Designs interactive authoring language forms to support on-line
information exchange. Writes and develops programs to interface with existing systems.
• Integrates and manages information contributed to the web site. Maintains online applications’
directory structures, configuration files and content files. Provides operational support for system’s
applications, implementing system changes/upgrades, etc., including designing, updating and
maintaining database.
• Maintains the online applications software and hardware to ensure the continued and future
effectiveness and efficiency of the applications. Ensures data security and integrity. Oversees the
testing and troubleshooting of online applications systems and undertake rigorous testing and
proving of applications software. Evaluates, recommends and administers internet search systems
and programs. Assists in procurement including conducting needs assessments and benchmarks,
preparing technical specifications and evaluation criteria.
• Assists contributors with data and information, as appropriate. Advises users on the most suitable
hardware and software for different tasks; maintain and enhance software.
• Provides technical coordination and leadership to other developers within individual operating units
across the unit.
• Identifies training needs and drafts training materials and conduct training sessions and
demonstrations of systems for contributors and others on the use of authoring language, conversion
tools, and other web site methods and techniques, as appropriate.
• Instructs and supervises the activities of specialist web development staff and other support staff, as
appropriate.
• Performs ad hoc duties as required.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
Education: Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Computer Science or
related field. A first level university degree with a relevant combination of academic qualifications and
experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
Experience: At least 2 years of progressively responsible experience related to website design and
development. Experience in both public and private sector organizations is preferred. Experience of
graphic art software is also highly desirable.
Language: Fluency in oral and written English and Arabic is essential.
Other Skills: Basic understanding of the United Nations information infrastructure and IT strategy as it
relates to user area. Excellent computer skills, working knowledge of office automation software and
practical knowledge of information technology (IT); Knowledge and practical experience of SQL
Server, MySQL, MS Access, Adobe Dreamweaver, Microsoft Frontpage etc. Experience of web
development languages such as HTML, PHP, ASP, etc. Knowledge in Windows 2008 Server, IIS7,
Apache, ODBC and SSL.
UN CORE VALUES AND COMPETENCIES
Professionalism: Good analytical and problem solving skills and ability to handle a range of systems-
related issues; Ability to adapt and be innovative as new communications challenges arise. Outstanding
knowledge of established programming procedures and programming languages.
Technological Awareness: In-depth knowledge of and extensive experience in database and website
design and development. Knowledge of principles, procedures, and standards of integrated web site
structuring and design. Familiar with current alternatives in available databases and web site software
and hardware; UNIX and/or related distributed operating systems, electronic filing systems and
document archives; current authoring languages, editing and authoring tools, and related website
technologies; internet functionality, and of a wide range of internet programming and design tools; skill
in computer graphics and layout; computerized page layout and design software; proofreading and
editing skills. Knowledge of Internet, ftp, telnet etc. and the proven ability to develop website
documents. Proven history of involvement in html, dhtml, css, JavaScript, PHP, web page creation, and
web site maintenance. Ability to operate and develop a web presence independently of technical
support.
Teamwork: Sound interpersonal skills, including ability to operate effectively across organizational
boundaries; ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and working relations in a multi-
cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
Communication: Good communication (spoken and written) skills, including the ability to explain and
present technical information, effectively train/advise users on systems related issues, applications, etc.,
and prepare written documentation in a clear, concise style.
Planning and organizing: Ability to plan own work and manage conflicting priorities
Client Orientation – Ability to identify and analyze clients’ needs and develop appropriate technology
to meet business requirement.
Judgment: Demonstrated ability to apply good judgment in the context of assignments given.
Teamwork: Good interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and
working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for
diversity.
Commitment to Continuous Learning: Willingness to keep abreast of new developments in the field
of information technology.
APPLICATIONS
Interested candidates should complete the attached United Nations Personal History form (P.11) and
forward it electronically at the following e-mail address:unami-staffing@un.org.
Please indicate the post and vacancy number you are applying for.
Incomplete P.11s will not be processed.
Only applicants who are short-listed will receive an acknowledgement within two weeks from the
deadline for submission of applications.
Women candidates are encouraged to apply, and in the selection process, preference will be given to
equally qualified women candidates.
The necessity for ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, competence and integrity remain the
paramount considerations in the employment of personnel. To ensure fairness and transparency,
selection will be made on a competitive basis through a selection panel.