Learning Specialist

Background

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP:  we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.

Office/Unit/Project Description 

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme contributes to peace and development through volunteerism worldwide. We work with partners to integrate qualified, highly motivated and well supported UN Volunteers into development programming and promote the value and global recognition of volunteerism. UNV is active in 160 countries every year. UNV is administered by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). UNV is headquartered in Bonn, Germany, with a field presence comprising 6 regional offices and 50+ field units. 

The Human Resources Section (HRS) provides a full range of HR services to the organization and its workforce. As part of the Human Resources Section, the Capacity Development Team (CDT) designs capacity development and learning programmes for UN Volunteers. The team supports the implementation of the UNV Learning Portfolio which consists of five comprehensive learning experiences: 1. onboarding 2. skills surge 3. empowerment for change 4. connect and learn 5. career craft.

Scope of Work

1. Plan and design virtual and onsite learning activities

• Conduct training needs analysis to identify gaps and improvements, informing programme design Develop detailed programme plans aligned with learning objectives, including curriculum design, content outlines, instructional strategies, and assessment methods, utilizing prototyping principles. 
• Create or source high-quality accessible training materials and resources, incorporating appropriate learning technologies and methodologies.Coordinate with facilitators and technical focal points to ensure content accuracy and quality ;
• Ensure alignment with UNDP-UNV M&E Framework and implement data-driven improvements;
• Perform the full cycle of project management, including communication, timeline management,  budget oversight, and scope control. 
• Prepare terms of reference and procure professional services from vendors and consultants based on scope of work and business requirements  for volunteer learning activities and related projects; 
• Coordinate logistics, and administrative arrangements for the timely delivery of the thematic workshops. 
• Organize and monitor the delivery of services by external consultants and vendors in line with project plans, timelines and budgets; 
• Conduct a thorough review to capture lessons learned and best practices for future projects.

2. Deliver virtual and onsite learning activities

• Facilitate in-person, virtual, and blended learning events in collaboration with stakeholders and domain experts, and the capacity development team using appropriate platforms.
• Adapt learning delivery methods to meet the needs of diverse volunteer categories, incorporating interactive and participatory techniques to increase engagement and retention.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders to expand co-delivery of volunteer learning initiatives.
• Engage with facilitators to ensure understanding and finalization of learning content and methods for effective program delivery.
• Provide technical and helpdesk support for virtual and onsite learning events.
• Monitor volunteer engagement during sessions, making real-time improvements to optimize learning outcomes.
• Conduct pre- and post-workshop evaluations, recommending data-driven improvements. 

3. Manage and update mandatory courses, ensuring compliance and engagement

• Ensure all mandatory courses are current, relevant and  accessible on e-Campus;
• Track completion of mandatory courses and collaborate with Volunteer Solutions Section to ensure the update of BI for corporate reporting;
• State abreast of the status of mutual recognition of mandatory learning programmes completion through the UN Inter-Agency Group;
• Update and maintain other courses on e-Campus as applicable.
• Liaise with external vendors to resolve technical issues with accessing and completing courses, while improving user experience and interface.

4. Support the revision of programme content and delivery of all workshops

• Collaborate with stakeholders and domain experts to revise learning programme content and delivery, aligning with Volunteers’ needs and corporate goals.
• Analyze volunteers’ evaluation feedback to identify areas of improvement and incorporate changes into Global Programmes.
• Maintain version control, communicate updated/revised programme to stakeholders, and conduct Training of Trainers for relevant workshops.

5. Coordinate CDT Outreach and Communications Efforts

• Develop a communication plan for the Capacity Development team, leveraging social media and digital platforms, and coordinate internal and external communication on Capacity Development Team activities.
• Develop and implement promotional materials and campaigns targeting diverseUN Volunteer groups and regions .
• Draft relevant reports on learning activities, outcomes and impact as required.

The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the section and the organization.

Institutional Arrangement

The Learning Specialist reports to the Team Leader, Capacity Development and Learning, and works closely with the rest of the CDT and as a member of the Human Resources Section. 

Expected Demonstration of Competencies

Core Competencies

Achieve Results:  LEVEL 3: Set and align challenging, achievable objectives for multiple projects, have lasting impact 

Think Innovatively:  LEVEL 3: Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems 

Learn Continuously:  LEVEL 3: Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons, diversify experiences

Adapt with Agility:  LEVEL 3: Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands  

Act with Determination: LEVEL 3: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results

Engage and Partner:  LEVEL 3: Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter-agency collaboration

Enable Diversity and Inclusion  LEVEL 3: Appreciate benefits of diverse workforce and champion inclusivity 

Cross-Functional & Technical competencies 

Required Education, Experience, Skills and Competencies

Minimum Education requirements

• Advanced University degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Education, Social Sciences, Political Sciences, Public or Business Administration, Humanities or related fields is required, or 
• A first level University Degree (Bachelor’s degree) in the areas mentioned above in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience will be given a due consideration in lieu of the Advanced University degree

Minimum years of relevant work experience

Minimum 5 years (with Master’s degree) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s degree) of relevant professional experience in sustainable development, preferably within the United Nations, and/or in learning and development, training design and delivery, new learning technologies, or related field.

Required skills 

• Designing and implementing learning solutions that are accessible and inclusive, using a variety of delivery methods
• Planning and facilitating virtual and in-person workshops and events.
• Using virtual collaboration tools such as Zoom, MS Teams or similar software;
• Coordination of multiple stakeholders in an international context.

Desired skills in addition to the competencies covered in the Competencies section

• Designing, developing, implementing strategies to measure impact of learning programmes is desirable;
• Experience in delivering onboarding programmes (virtual and in person) is an asset;
• Experience in reporting on learning initiatives is an asset;
• Working with volunteers or volunteer sending organization in implementing capacity development activities. 
• Working a global context such as the United Nations or similar organizations.

Required Language (s): 

• Fluency in English and French is required. 
• Working knowledge of another official UN language is an asset

Professional Certificates: HR Certification is an asset.

Equal opportunity

• As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination. 
• UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

• UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles. 

Right to select multiple candidates

• UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Equal opportunity

• As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination. 
• UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

• UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles. 

Right to select multiple candidates

• UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Scam alert

• UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information, please see www.undp.org/scam-alert.