Help Desk Assistant - International Potato Center

Ref.: 12-10 HDA/NRS/HQ

The Center: CIP is a not-for-profit international agricultural research-for-development organization with a focus on potato, sweetpotato, and Andean roots and tubers. Its vision is of roots and tubers improving the lives of the poor. CIP is dedicated to achieving food security, improved well-being, and gender equity for poor people in root and tuber farming and food systems of the developing world. CIP works with partners to contribute high quality science, technology, and capacity strengthening for sustainable science-based solutions. CIP is headquartered in Lima, Peru, with staff and activities in over 30 locations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America. CIP is a member of the Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research, a network of 15 research centers mostly located in the developing world and supported by more than 50 donor members.

The position: The Help Desk Assistant position will be based in Lima, Peru and will report to the Help desk’s Administrator. Its main responsibility will be providing support to users in computer applications and platforms. Troubleshoot problems and advise on the appropriate action.

Duties and Accountabilities:

• Respond to requests for technical assistance in person, by phone or electronically to HQ Staff, experimental stations and regional offices
• Resolve technical hardware and software issues and advise user on appropriate action
• Follow standard help desk procedures
• Administer help desk software
• Identify situations requiring urgent attention
• Prepare activity reports and documentation related to IT research projects.

Selection Criteria:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, System Engineer or related field.
• At least 1 year of experience required in similar position.
• Experience working in fundamental operations of relevant software, hardware and other equipment.
• Knowledge and experience of customer service practices.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work well individually and as part of a team, internally as well as externally.
• Demonstrated ability to problem solving.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in Spanish and English language are required;
• Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines and work in multicultural environment;

Conditions: Employment contract will be for a one-year term with three months probation period with the possibility of renewal. CIP prides itself on its collegial and supportive working environment, which allows space for personal and professional growth.

Applications: Applicants should apply by email, sending a letter of motivation, a full C.V., and the names and contact information of three references that are knowledgeable of the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to: CIP-Recruitment@cgiar.org. The reference name of the position should be clearly marked in the subject line of the email message. Screening of applications will begin on March 30, 2012 and will continue until the post is filled. All applications will be acknowledged, however only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Learn more about CIP by accessing our web site at http://www.cipotato.org.

CIP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women and professionals from developing countries are particularly encouraged to apply