UNFPA is hiring an Operational Risk and Control Specialist at P-3 level in Johannesburg, South Africa. Applications close October 6, 2026.
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is recruiting an Operational Risk and Control Specialist at the P-3 level for its East and Southern Africa Regional Office (ESARO) in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The position is part of the Quality Management Unit (QMU) within the Division for Management Services and focuses on operational risk, internal controls, implementing partner management and fraud risk management.
Applications close on October 6, 2026.
Opportunity Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | UNFPA |
| Position | Operational Risk and Control Specialist |
| Grade | P-3 |
| Job ID | 37003 |
| Duty Station | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Office | East and Southern Africa Regional Office |
| Vacancy Type | Fixed Term |
| Contract | 1 year, with possibility of extension |
| Schedule | Full time |
| Posted | September 21, 2026 |
| Deadline | October 6, 2026 |
| Required Experience | 5 years |
| Required Language | English |
| Desired Language | French |
About the Role
The specialist will provide guidance, technical support and oversight to business units across the region.
The role involves using data analysis to identify risks, control gaps and weaknesses, recommending mitigating measures and escalating significant risks when necessary.
The position also serves as a regional knowledge hub, supporting business units with policies, systems, corrective actions, training and capacity building.
Key Responsibilities
Implementing Partner Risk Management
The role supports implementing partner risk management and HACT processes, including:
- Due diligence and vetting.
- Capacity and risk assessments.
- Monitoring and assurance.
- Implementing partner fraud risk management.
- Risk mitigation.
- Regional quality assurance of HACT reports.
- Development of due diligence tools.
Internal Controls and Fraud Risk Management
Responsibilities also cover internal controls and fraud risk management, including:
- Supporting implementation of the Internal Control Framework.
- Segregation of duties.
- System access and user roles.
- Anti-fraud measures.
- Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism policies.
- Fraud risk assessments.
- Monitoring compliance and corrective actions.
Education and Experience
Applicants should have an advanced university degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Risk Management, Audit, Management or another related field.
A minimum of five years of professional experience in public administration, risk management, audit or a related area is required.
Additional experience and skills include:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to build effective working relationships.
- Experience drafting guidance and procedures.
- Strong analytical and conceptual abilities.
- Proficiency with office software and corporate IT systems.
- Sound judgment and initiative.
- Commitment to UN principles.
Previous UN experience and knowledge of UN internal controls, risk management and implementing partner procedures are advantageous. Field operations experience is also an advantage.
Language Requirements
English fluency is required.
Working knowledge of French is desirable.
Salary and Benefits
UNFPA states that the position offers a remuneration package including a competitive net salary, health insurance and other applicable benefits.
The vacancy does not specify the exact salary amount.
Contract and Work Arrangement
The position is:
- Full time.
- Fixed term.
- Initially for one year.
- Rotational.
- Based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The contract may be extended subject to applicable conditions.
Application Deadline
October 6, 2026, at 5:59 AM according to the vacancy listing.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the official UNFPA Careers recruitment system.
Apply through the official UNFPA Careers website
Applicants should search for Job Identification 37003 and review the complete vacancy requirements before submitting an application.
Important Notice
UNFPA states that it does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing or testing fees during recruitment and does not request applicants’ bank account information.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
This vacancy is aimed at professionals with experience in risk management, audit, internal controls, public administration or related areas. The role combines regional oversight, data analysis, compliance, implementing partner assurance and fraud risk management.
Candidates should ensure their applications clearly demonstrate the required five years of professional experience and relevant technical expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UNFPA Operational Risk and Control Specialist position?
It is a P-3 role supporting operational risk management, internal controls, implementing partner assurance and fraud risk management across UNFPA’s East and Southern Africa region.
Where is the position based?
The duty station is Johannesburg, South Africa.
What is the job identification number?
The Job Identification number is 37003.
How much experience is required?
A minimum of five years of professional experience in public administration, risk management, audit or a related area is required.
What degree is required?
An advanced university degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Risk Management, Audit, Management or a related field is required.
Is English required?
Yes. Fluency in English is required.
Is French required?
French is desirable but not listed as a required language.
How long is the contract?
The initial contract is one year, with the possibility of extension.
What is the application deadline?
Applications close on October 6, 2026, at 5:59 AM according to the vacancy listing.
Does UNFPA charge an application fee?
No. UNFPA states that it does not charge recruitment-related fees.
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