UNV: Partnerships and Resource Mobilization Assistant – San José

Organization Mission

As a coordinating agency, the RCO seeks to strengthen cooperation between UN entities on issues related to economic development and climate change resilience.

Context

This position is located in the Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) in San José, Costa Rica. As a member of the OECD and a country transitioning toward high-income status, Costa Rica faces an evolving development landscape that requires innovative approaches to partnerships and financing. Within this context, there is a growing need to diversify funding sources and strengthen collaboration with government institutions, the private sector, civil society, and international partners. To support these efforts, the RCO is recruiting a UN Volunteer Associate in Partnerships and Resource Mobilization who will support the identification of new opportunities for collaboration, the developing and implementation of partnership strategies, and contributing to sustainable resource mobilization efforts in support of the UN’s development priorities in the country.

Key Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Partnerships and Finance for Development Officer the UN Volunteer Associate will undertake the following tasks:
• Contributing to mapping and engaging potential partners across government, private sector, civil society, and academia, with a particular focus on youth-related initiatives.
• Assisting in preparing concept notes, partnership briefs, and funding proposals, as well as maintaining a database of partners and funding opportunities.
• Assisting in preparing the Multi-Year Funding Framework of the next UNSDCF.
• Supporting the organization of meetings, events, and outreach activities aimed at strengthening collaboration and visibility.
• Contributing to communication and advocacy efforts that promote youth engagement and volunteerism.
• Supporting monitoring and reporting on partnership initiatives and resource mobilization efforts, ensuring proper documentation of results and lessons learned.
• Any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor.

During the first month of the assignment, the UN Volunteer will work closely with his direct supervisor to finalize an agreed-upon work plan. The work plan should outline key objectives and activities and include regular check-ins with the supervisor to review progress and receive performance.

Required Skills and Experience

Demonstrated interest or experience (up to three years) in:
• Development Finance
• International Cooperation

Skills in:
• Microsoft Office and AI tools
• Collaborative work

Core Competencies

Accountability
Adaptability and Flexibility
Building Trust
Client Orientation
Commitment and Motivation
Commitment to Continuous Learning
Communication
Creativity
Ethics and Values
Integrity
Planning and Organizing
Professionalism
Respect for Diversity
Self-Management
Working in Teams

Living Conditions

Costa Rica is a democratic and politically stable country located in Central America, widely recognized for its commitment to peace, environmental sustainability, and human development. San José, the capital city and main duty station for this assignment, offers access to modern infrastructure, public services, health care, and transportation. The country enjoys a warm tropical climate, with a well-developed tourism sector and a generally high quality of life. While the cost of living in urban areas like San José can be relatively high compared to other countries in the region, a wide range of housing options and services are available.
Despite its positive development indicators, Costa Rica also faces challenges related to social inequality, limited access to services in rural and coastal areas, and rising concerns about security in certain urban neighbourhoods. The country has an efficient telecommunications network and broad internet access, which facilitates remote collaboration. Costa Rica is known for its welcoming culture, biodiversity, and strong civil society engagement, making it an enriching environment for volunteers working on sustainable development, human rights, and community-based initiatives.