Information Systems Officer

Job description

This position is located in the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) Programme in the Division on Technology and Logistics (DTL) of the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in Lusaka, Zambia. The incumbent reports to the ASYCUDA Regional Coordinator for East and Southern Africa Region.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the ASYCUDA Regional Coordinator for East and Southern Africa Region, the Information Systems Officer will provide technical assistance and support to the National Customs Services (NCS) and National Project Teams (NPT), and will be responsible for the following duties: • Manages projects involving feasibility studies, systems analysis, design, development and implementation of new, moderately complex systems, and/or participates as a member of a development team with responsibility for major components of the more complex systems. • Develops detailed system and other technical specifications and user documentation for ASYCUDA systems. • Provides specialized advice to NCSs and NPTs, analysing users’ requirements and translating these into new applications; determines application systems integration and linkage issues. • Maintains, upgrades or enhances existing ASYCUDA user systems; troubleshoots and provides continuing user support, to include resolving difficult problems, advising on the use of new techniques, monitoring transactions to measure performance and continued effectiveness of ASYCUDA assigned systems, etc. • Develops and maintains ASYCUDA proprietary programs, i.e., Single Windows, that require integration of many interrelated systems and program elements; ensures appropriate data security and access controls considering both local and wide area issues. • Organizes and performs unit and integrated testing, designing and utilizing test bases; assists users in acceptance testing. • Develops customs training materials, operating and user manuals; trains staff in assigned systems. • Develops disaster recovery plans and ensures appropriate planning and training of those responsible. • Participates in writing reports and papers on systems-related topics, system requirements, information strategy, etc. • Provides guidance to, and may supervise, new/junior staff, consultants, etc.

Competencies

• Professionalism: Knowledge of information technology/information management, particularly in systems analysis, database design and programming related to customs and international trade digitalization. Knowledge of several high-level programming languages and significant exposure to and demonstrated proficiency in all aspects of programming and analysis, including structured/object-oriented design, relational systems, scripting and query languages, document design and management, hardware and software requirements, systems facilities and execution protocols. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including proficiency in the development and implementation of systems of moderate size/complexity. Knowledge of interactive systems; good knowledge of organization’s information infrastructure and IT strategy as it relates to user area(s); independently maintains assigned systems and develops innovative approaches to resolve a wide range of issues/problems. 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. • Client Orientation: Considers all those to whom services are provided to be “clients” and seeks to see things from clients’ point of view; establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect; identifies clients’ needs and matches them to appropriate solutions; monitors ongoing developments inside and outside the clients’ environment to keep informed and anticipate problems; keeps clients informed of progress or setbacks in projects; meets timeline for delivery of products or services to client. • Technological Awareness: Keeps abreast of available technology; understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the office; actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks; shows willingness to learn new technology.

Education

Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in computer science, information systems, mathematics, statistics or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in planning, design, development, implementation and maintenance of computer information systems or related area, including relevant experience in the field of customs and international trade digitalization, system deployment, development and support, is required. Experience in prototyping and implementing complex customs information technology systems is desirable. Experience in organizing and delivering training courses within governmental organizations is desirable. Experience working in an international environment is desirable. Experience in technical ICT programming with Java, Linux and Oracle is desirable.