Investigator (Spanish Speaking) At UNOPS

Internal Audit and Investigations Group

The purpose of the Internal Audit and Investigations Group is to provide independent and impartial assurance and advice to improve UNOPS operations. The group reports on the use of resources administered by UNOPS and the effectiveness of internal control systems; and enhances the effectiveness of risk management, control and governance processes. Furthermore, the Internal Audit and Investigations Group leads the Executive Director’s investigations into alleged fraud, corruption, waste of resources, abuse of authority or other misconduct and violations of UNOPS regulations, rules and administrative instructions.

Visit the IAIG website for more information (https://www.unops.org/about/governance/accountability/iaig). IAIG is an innovative and vital part of UNOPS and this is an exciting time to join our growing team!

Functional Responsibilities

Under the overall supervision of the Manager of Investigations Section, the Investigator will participate in- and lead complex investigations of alleged misconduct including procurement fraud, corruption, embezzlement, collusion, bribery schemes, harassment, conflicts of interest and sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA). For cases assigned to him or her, the investigator will be responsible for the following duties:

The cases assigned to him or her, the investigator will:

• Plan, conduct, and manage reviews, preliminary assessments and/or investigations of alleged misconduct, mismanagement, fraud, corruption, sexual misconduct (sexual abuse and exploitation as well as sexual harassment), harassment/abuse of authority, waste of resources or violation of the Organization’s policies and procedures.
• Help oversee any consultants or consulting firms engaged by IAIG for Spanish-speaking engagements
• Lead the preparation of proposed work plans for review and approval by IAIG;
• Gather, seize and analyze all relevant evidence (documentary, physical, electronic, etc.), documenting the process in accordance with IAIG’s chain of custody and other requirements. Organize complex and voluminous records and documents.
• Decide on the investigative tools to be employed; gather, seize and analyze relevant evidence (documentary, physical, electronic, etc.).
• Interview witnesses, victims, and subjects, using interpreters as required, in accordance with accepted best practices (ensuring reliable information and according due process).
• At the completion of the assignment, prepare a detailed report setting forth the findings, supporting evidence, analysis and evaluation of the evidence, as well as recommendations for next steps.
• Work collaboratively with key stakeholders, both internally (other units) and externally (donors, etc)..
• International travel to UNOPS’ offices, including field missions, may be required depending on the case. Such travel could include missions to hardship duty stations.

Impact of results:

The effective and successful achievement of results by the Investigator directly impacts on the development and performance of the Investigations unit at IAIG and UNOPS.

Competencies

Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization.

Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.

Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others.

Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role).

Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries.

Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements.

Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving.

Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

Education:

• An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in law or a related area.
• A first-level university degree in combination with 7 years qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• A Diploma in Criminal Investigation from a national law enforcement agency or police academy and significant relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the above academic qualifications.

Experience:

• At least five years of progressively responsible experience in professional investigatory work, law enforcement/criminal investigations or related fields.
• Experience with international investigations is desirable.
• Experience in the Latin/Central/South America region is highly desirable.

Skills:

• Proven ability to gather and analyze evidence, interview suspects and witnesses.
• Techniques for contacting, recruiting and managing sources.
• Good knowledge of criminal investigation techniques.
• Proven ability to think clearly and logically and quickly and accurately analyze complex data from a myriad of sources.
• Proven ability to summarize investigation findings, observations and recommendations.
• Ability to plan own work and manage conflicting priorities.

Language Requirement:

• Fluency in English and Spanish (speaking, reading and writing) is required.

Contract type, level and duration

Contract type: Staff Contract level: P3 Contract duration: One year initially, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability

For more details about United Nations staff contracts, please follow this link*:* https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/UN-Staff-Contracts.aspx

Additional Considerations

• Please note that the closing date is midnight Copenhagen time.
• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
• Only those candidates that are short-listed for interviews will be notified.
• UNOPS embraces diversity and it is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all its employees and encourages qualified candidates to apply irrespective of race, colour, national origin, ethnic or social background, genetic information, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, religion or belief, or disability.
• UNOPS seeks to reasonably accommodate candidates with special needs, upon request.
• Work life harmonization – UNOPS values its people and recognizes the importance of balancing professional and personal demands. We have a progressive policy on work-life harmonization and offer several flexible working options. This policy applies to UNOPS personnel on all contract types
• For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post
• The incumbent is responsible to abide by security policies, administrative instructions, plans and procedures of the UN Security Management System and that of UNOPS.
• All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
• It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential recruits/interns. Recruitment/internship in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

Background Information – UNOPS

UNOPS – an operational arm of the United Nations – supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by successfully implementing its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects around the world. Our mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development.

UNOPS areas of expertise cover infrastructure, procurement, project management, financial management, and human resources.

Working with us

We are proud of our people. With a wealth of knowledge and skills in various disciplines – engineering, finance, human resources, ICT, leadership, project management, procurement, and more – they help tackle some of the biggest challenges of our time. Their work around the world supports progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

At UNOPS, we offer a range of short- and long-term opportunities in various environments and duty stations – from Denmark and Kenya to Mexico, Switzerland, Myanmar, Senegal, Uganda, and many more.

Diversity

With over 5,000 UNOPS personnel and approximately 7,400 personnel recruited on behalf of our partners, spread across 80 countries, our workforce represents a range of nationalities and cultures. We promote a balanced and diverse labor force — a strength that helps us better understand and address our partners’ needs. We continually strive to maintain our gender-balanced workplace. We encourage qualified underrepresented groups as per UNOPS Gender, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy to apply for our vacancies.

Work life harmonization

UNOPS values its people and recognizes the importance of balancing professional and personal demands.