Job description
About UN University (UNU)
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System. UNU engages in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The work of UNU contributes to solving pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.
For the past five decades, UNU has been a source of impartial research on sustainability, human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers working at institutes in 12 countries, UNU’s expertise spans the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change. UNU collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions across the globe. For more information, please visit http://unu.edu
About UNU-Centre Campus Computing Centre (C3)
Within UNU, the Campus Computing Centre (C3) is the University’s technology arm and a driving force for innovation, leveraging information and communication technologies (ICT) to support and advance UNU’s vision and mission. C3 serves the entire University community, ensuring that staff, faculty, and students can make the most effective and appropriate use of computing resources across teaching, research, outreach, knowledge sharing, administration, and academic support. Learn more at: https://c3.unu.edu
Responsibilities
The Software Solutions Engineer will develop and implement information systems in accordance with established software engineering principles and best practices.
This position plays a key role in supporting the University’s mission by delivering innovative, reliable, and scalable digital solutions. The ideal incumbent will bring analytical and problem-solving skills, demonstrate adaptability to emerging technologies, and show a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. A collaborative mindset, coupled with a passion for creating impactful technology solutions, will be essential to success in this role.
1. Web Applications Development
- Develop and maintain back-end systems using Laravel and other relevant frameworks and platforms.
- Build responsive front-end web applications using JavaScript (ES6), ReactJS, and Tailwind CSS.
- Design and implement RESTful web services to facilitate efficient data management and interaction.
2. SharePoint and Teams Applications Development
- Create custom SharePoint web parts to extend standard functionality.
- Design and implement Microsoft Teams applications to meet operational needs.
- Leverage Microsoft Graph APIs for cross-service data interactions.
3. Workflow Automation
- Streamline workflows using Microsoft Power Automate and RPA, mapping steps, decisions, and stakeholders in manual processes.
- Integrate automation solutions with internal applications to optimize business processes.
- Empower non-technical users by providing reusable templates and reference materials.
4. ERP and Data Analytics Support
- Design and implement robust data transformation processes to support analytics initiatives.
- Create efficient data pipelines to ensure data integrity and accessibility for self-service reporting.
- Collaborate with stakeholders to develop and maintain data models that drive business insights.
5. Project Management
- Plan, organize, and manage software projects to ensure timely, successful delivery.
- Balance scope, time, and resources effectively to meet project goals.
- Engage with clients to clarify needs and provide regular updates.
- Conduct quality assurance activities, including testing and code reviews.
6. Innovation and Emerging Technologies
- Translate concepts into detailed project plans aligned with organizational goals.
- Continuously improve workflows, processes, and software solutions to meet evolving needs.
7. Technical Documentation
- Produce and update technical documentation to support software development and maintenance.
- Create clear, actionable step-by-step guides for restoring critical systems and data after disruptive events.
- Ensure documentation is accurate and accessible for users.
8. User Support
- Provide technical support and troubleshoot user issues to ensure smooth operations.
- Evaluate user requests and prioritize in accordance with established protocols.
- Implement new features and enhancements based on user feedback.
9. Content Management
- Develop intranet management guidelines (content standards, style guides, and publication workflow).
- Manage content creation personally or by collaborating with subject matter experts.
- Review structure, search, and information architecture to optimize user experience.
10. Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Key Performance Indicators
- Software Quality: Quality and reliability of software applications developed.
- Innovation: Implementation of innovative solutions and enhancements.
- Collaboration: Effectiveness in collaborating with stakeholders and team members.
- Responsiveness: Timely acknowledgement and resolution of user requests and concerns.
- Project Management: Timeliness and quality of contributions towards projects.
Competencies
Values:
- Inclusion — take action to create an environment of dignity and respect for all, regardless of age, culture, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, geography, grade, language, nationality, racial identity, religion, sex, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, social origin or any other aspect of identity
- Integrity — act ethically, demonstrating the standards of conduct of the United Nations and taking prompt action in case of witnessing unprofessional or unethical behaviour, or any other breach of UN standards
- Humility — demonstrate self-awareness and willingness to learn from others
- Humanity — act according to the purposes of the United Nations: peace, dignity and equality on a healthy planet
Behaviours:
- Connect and collaborate — build positive relationships with others to advance the work of the United Nations and work coherently as One UN
- Analyse and plan — seek out and use data from a wide range of sources to understand problems, inform decision-making, propose evidence-based solutions and plan action
- Deliver results with positive impact — hold oneself and others accountable for delivering results and making a positive difference to the people and causes that the United Nations serves
- Learn and develop — pursue own learning and development and contribute to the learning and development of others
- Adapt and innovate — demonstrate flexibility, agility and the ability to think and act in novel ways
Qualifications
1) Education and certification
- High school diploma or Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in computer science, information technology, or a related field.
2) Required skills and experience
- High school diploma with six (6) years, OR Bachelor’s degree with four (4) years of relevant working experience in software development.
- Proficiency in programming languages and frameworks (e.g., PHP, JavaScript, CSS, Laravel, ReactJS, Filament, Tailwind).
- Knowledge of database management systems (e.g., MS SQL, MySQL) for querying and manipulating data.
- Expertise in SharePoint Online site management and development using the SharePoint Framework (SPFx).
- Experience with Microsoft Power Platform (Power Apps, Power Automate, Power BI).
3) Language Requirements:
- Fluency in English is required
- Knowledge of another UN official working language is an asset.
Remuneration
UNU offers an attractive, tax exempt compensation package including an annual net salary (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance), 30 days annual leave, dependency benefits, pension plan and health insurance scheme. For more information please see: https://careers.un.org/lbw/home.aspx?viewtype=SAL
Duration of contract
This is a full-time, fixed-term appointment. The initial appointment will be for one (1) year with the possibility of renewal on a fixed-term appointment basis, subject to satisfactory work performance.
For academic positions, the combined duration of fixed-term appointments with UNU may not exceed six (6) years. The mandatory age of retirement for United Nations staff is 65 years.
Expected start date
1 January 2026
How to Apply
To apply to UNU, you will not need an account. Instead, we ask that you:
- Apply via UNU Careers;
- fill out the UNU P11 Form (please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organisations);
- provide a motivation statement (in the P11 form); and
- answer a few questions that are tailored to the position.
You may wish to refer to the UN Values and Behaviours Framework for more information.
Application Deadline
31 October 2025
Submissions must be received by 11.59 p.m. Japan time on the deadline; late entries will not be accepted.
Assessment
Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by a competency-based interview, background checks and references.
Special notice
Staff members of the United Nations University are international civil servants subject to the Rector’s authority. They may be assigned to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations University. The Rector reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a level below that advertised.
UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply and become part of the organisation. Applications from developing countries, and from women are strongly encouraged. Eligible internal applicants are also encouraged to apply.
UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.
If you have supervisory function you need to have awareness on gender related issues.
Information about UNU rosters
UNU 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 UNU.
Scam Warning
UNU does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process. Should you receive a solicitation for the payment of a fee, please disregard it. Furthermore, please note that emblems, logos, names and addresses are easily copied and reproduced. Therefore, you are advised to apply particular care when submitting personal information on the web.