UNICEF is the world’s largest children’s charity working to protect vulnerable children, globally and here in Australia. Run entirely on voluntary donations, we work to improve the lives of every vulnerable child, no matter who they are or where they live. Every day our teams are on the ground in 190 countries working with local partners to deliver lifesaving help and create lasting change. From vaccinating children in war zones to providing early childhood education access in Indigenous communities, donations help us to protect every child, no matter what.
We are offering a full-time 12 month fixed term position, working in a flexible environment, built around the diversity of our team and their needs. A competitive salary commensurate with the not-for-profit sector is offered together with a broad range of wellbeing benefits.
What we are looking for
A highly capable international development professional to manage a portfolio of UNICEF Australia’s climate and WASH programs.
Reporting to the Head of International Programs, you will be responsible for the end‑to‑end management of assigned programs, working closely with UNICEF Country Offices to ensure high quality, compliant and effective delivery. You will also contribute to resource mobilisation, donor relationships, and cross‑organisational collaboration to support UNICEF Australia’s broader impact.
Your day will include
- Leading the end‑to‑end management of a portfolio of climate and WASH program grants, from design through to closeout
- Building strong relationships with UNICEF Country Offices and maintaining a clear understanding of country contexts and priorities
- Managing program funding in line with UNICEF Australia’s program cycle, policies and procedures
- Monitoring program performance, expenditure, risks and impact, and reviewing financial and programmatic reports
- Ensuring compliance with safeguarding requirements, DFAT accreditation standards, the ACFID Code of Conduct, and ACNC requirements
- Supporting monitoring, evaluation and learning processes, including participation in program reviews
- Providing technical input to fundraising and communications teams, including donor reporting and proposal development
- Maintaining awareness of trends and best practice in international development, climate and WASH programming
We would like you to have the following skills and experience
- Demonstrated experience in international development program management, including end‑to‑end delivery of programs or grants
- Experience in program design, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and reporting
- Demonstrated understanding of development sector compliance and frameworks, including DFAT accreditation, ACFID Code of Conduct, and ACNC requirements
- Experience working with international partners, including remote relationship management with country offices or implementing partners
- Strong financial acumen, including proven ability to manage timelines, budgets, risks and resources within structured governance frameworks
- Willingness and ability to work flexibly, including outside Australian business hours, to support coordination with global stakeholders
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce high quality reports and donor-facing materials
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities
- An interest in the climate and international development space, aligned with UNICEF Australia’s values and purpose
What will it feel like to work at UNICEF Australia
- An environment and culture built on the importance of teamwork, collaboration and shared purpose
- Sector leading salary packaging and a competitive salary commensurate with the NFP sector
- A flexible work environment with balance between home and office work, which puts the wellbeing of our staff at the centre of our decision making
- A positive and values-driven work culture which celebrates our achievements and recognises our teams
- A wellbeing package which includes such things as access to Birthday leave, EAP, nutrition, exercise, financial and legal support
- Commitment to our child-first philosophy with generous paid parental leave and offering
- The opportunity to support a global impactful cause and make a difference for every child
How To Apply
To apply for this fantastic opportunity please select "Apply" and submit the following documents in PDF format:
- Your Cover Letter, outlining your relevant experience and highlighting a summary of your strengths
- Your CV
For further information on this position, please be in touch with our People & Culture Team: recruitment@unicef.org.au.
We welcome you to contact us to discuss any requirements that will ensure you can participate fully in our recruitment experience.
Applications for this position close Sunday 31 May 2026.
All applicants are required to be legally entitled to work in Australia. UNICEF Australia has a zero-tolerance approach to abuse and exploitation and adheres to strict safeguarding principles. All successful candidates will be required to undergo rigorous background checks (including National Criminal History Checks and Working with Children Check) and sign and abide by our Code of Conduct on Child Safeguarding & Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse.
UNICEF Australia is committed to ensure all our People, from any background, feel heard, considered, and able to contribute to their full potential. We are striving to build a truly inclusive workplace, one that our team feel they can bring their best self to work and is reflective of the wider community that we serve.