Logistics and Procurement Specialist

Support procurement and logistics for pandemic preparedness projects in Kazakhstan.

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Application deadline 3 months ago: Wednesday 18 Feb 2026 at 00:00 UTC

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Overview

Support procurement and logistics for pandemic preparedness projects in Kazakhstan.

You have:

  • National or international level of experience in procurement, logistics, engineering or other relevant programmes.
  • Experience in coordinating and/or supervising construction, renovation, or infrastructure projects (laboratories or similar facilities) is an asset, as is experience working in the UN or other international development organization.
  • Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills.
  • Strong coordination and communication skills, with the ability to act as a focal point for multiple stakeholders.
  • Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, among others), email, and internet; experience with ERP/procurement systems (e.g. WHO Global Management System (GSM)) is an asset.
  • Familiarity with database management and office technology equipment.
  • Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision.
  • Ability to work with tight deadlines.

Contract

This is a UNV contract. More about UNV contracts.

This United Nations Volunteers (UNV) assignment is part of Pandemic Fund project, which is implementing by WHO Country Office in Kazakhstan. The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the necessity in Kazakhstan to enhance all core capacities of International Health Regulations to reduce the risks of future outbreaks. The Pandemic Fund grant addresses critical challenges in Kazakhstan’s public health system, particularly in epidemiological surveillance, border control (it shares extensive borders with China, Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan), laboratory safety, early detection and response, and staff training. The Strengthening the National Capacity for Pandemic Preparedness and Response to Infectious Disease Outbreaks Project brings together a collaboration across government ministries, partners, and civil society groups, led by the Ministry of Health (MOH). As the Project’s Implementing Entity (IE), WHO work closely with MOH technical working groups to achieve the Project’s objectives, including the National Centre of Expertise (NCE) of the Committee of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control and the Scientific and Practical Center for Sanitary and Epidemiological Expertise and Monitoring (SPCSEEM).

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of Head of Department or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UNV Logistics and Procurement Specialist will: • Identify the proper procurement method and potential suppliers in procurement. • Conduct market research and identify qualified suppliers and contractors for laboratory renovation works. • Issue offers solicitations, communicate and negotiate with suppliers when needed. • Evaluate and analyze the received offers and recommend the awarded suppliers. • Prepare technical evaluation committee report when needed as requested by supervisor. • Communicate with specialized units to get the procurement technical/admin approvals. • Prepare all relevant procurement documents such as adjudication reports, analysis sheet with recommendations and checklist for review and approval of supervisor. • Generate procurement reports and briefings on the status of all transactions for the review of the supervisor. Initiate correspondence to verify data, answer queries, alert supervisor/technical units of any gaps in the transactions and recommend solutions. • Act as a backup for customs clearance and logistical arrangements for importing goods. • Supervise and monitor laboratory renovation works to ensure quality, safety, timelines, and budget compliance; support project development stages, including needs assessment, budgeting, scheduling, and risk identification. • Track progress of renovation activities and propose corrective actions when needed. • Support financial tracking of procurement and renovation expenditures and ensure proper documentation; coordinate with programme, technical, and finance teams to ensure alignment with project objectives. • Prepare progress updates, reports, and documentation related to procurement and renovation activities. • Support handover, acceptance, and closure of renovation works and related contracts. • Any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor.

• Commitment to Continuous Learning • Communication • Ethics and Values • Integrity • Planning and Organizing • Professionalism • Respect for Diversity • Working in Teams • Creativity

  • National/or international level of experience in procurement, logistics, engineering or other relevant programmes.
  • Experience in coordinating and/or supervising construction, renovation, or infrastructure projects (laboratories or similar facilities) is an asset, as is experience working in the UN or other international development organization.
  • Excellent oral and written skills; excellent drafting, formulation, reporting skills.
  • Accuracy and professionalism in document production and editing.
  • Strong coordination and communication skills, with the ability to act as a focal point for multiple stakeholders.
  • Solid overall computer literacy, including proficiency in various Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, among others), email, and internet; experience with ERP/procurement systems (e.g. WHO Global Management System (GSM)) is an asset.
  • Familiarity with database management and office technology equipment.
  • Self-motivated, ability to work with minimum supervision.
  • Ability to work with tight deadlines.
  • Experience in reconstruction of laboratories would be an asset.

Astana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, is a modern and rapidly developing urban center known for its unique and futuristic architecture. The city offers a high standard of living with access to various amenities including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities. The climate is characterized by cold winters and hot summers, so appropriate clothing is necessary. Public transportation is well-developed, making it easy to navigate the city. Healthcare services in Astana are of a high standard, and there are several international schools and cultural institutions. Overall, Astana provides a comfortable and vibrant living environment for international staff and volunteers.

National UN Volunteers Specialists receive USD 1173/month as their Volunteer Living Allowance in Kazakhstan.

Other benefits include: • Pre-assignment Entry lump sum - USD 400 (one time payment) • Learning - Access to UNV's learning and career development resources • Annual leave - 2.5 days per month • Insurance - Private insurance: Health, dental, life and dismemberment (100%) coverage by CIGNA • Exit allowance (paid on successful completion of the assignment)

The above summary is provided as information only and is subject to change. For further information on the full range of entitlements and eligibility criteria, please read the UN Volunteer Conditions of Service at https://explore.unv.org/cos

You can also check full entitlements at the duty station FYI at https://app.unv.org/calculator

Potential interview questions

Describe a time you had to manage multiple procurement processes simultaneously. This question assesses your ability to prioritize and handle pressure. Focus on your organizational skills and how you ensured all processes were followed.
How do you handle conflicts with suppliers during negotiations? Interviewers want to see your negotiation and conflict resolution skills. Pro members can see the explanation.
Can you provide an example of a project you supervised? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What steps do you take to ensure compliance with procurement regulations? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Tell me about a time you conducted market research. Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Describe a situation where you had to persuade stakeholders to support a decision. Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
How do you ensure quality control in procurement and renovation projects? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What is your experience with using ERP systems for procurement? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Added 3 months ago - Updated 3 months ago - Source: unv.org