Monday, January 23, 2012

Vaga: PROGRESS!O - Timor-Leste Country Representative (Closing date: Sun, 12/02/2012)


 Vacancy Announcement

Timor-Leste Country Representative

Based in Dili, Timor-Leste
Full-time (35 hours per week), two-year fixed-term contract
US$34,500 gross per annum

Please note that the selected applicant will be required to take up the post before the end of March 2012 at the latest.

For this post, we especially encourage experienced Timorese professionals to apply.

The post holder will be responsible for the management of Progressio’s programme in Timor- Leste, ensuring the delivery of programme plans. S/he will have a pivotal role in defining development policy and priority areas for Progressio's work in the country, working together with local partners, development workers and other stakeholders.
Within the context of Progressio’s work of skill-sharing and advocacy, the post holder will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of Progressio’s 2010 - 2015 strategic plan for Timor-Leste.

This post requires a skilled and talented individual, with demonstrable leadership and programme management experience, who can deal with complex issues, a demanding workload, and can communicate well with a wide range of people.

Educated to degree level in a relevant field, the post holder will have a minimum of five years’ experience in NGO management, with demonstrable experience in: programme management; financial planning/ management, with proven finance/ budgeting skills; strategy and policy formulation and implementation; resource mobilisation (including reporting to and liaising with donors), and human resources management. S/he will also have experience of network building and working with civil society organisations, including faith-based organisations.

Sound knowledge and analysis of the South East Asian and Timorese political and economic contemporary context; good understanding of international development issues, and the role of civil society organisations and multilateral bodies in development; well-developed project cycle skills (e.g. design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation), and a sound grasp of gender analysis and dynamics are essential. The post holder should also have excellent interpersonal, representational and influencing skills; leadership skills, including the ability to think and act strategically; good problem solving skills; the ability to adapt skills and knowledge and work with existing resources; the ability to prioritise a heavy workload and to work to tight deadlines, and to live and work effectively in a challenging environment, and in compliance with security measures.

Strong numeracy skills; competence in spreadsheet accounting; cultural sensitivity and the ability to work with diverse and marginalised groups; willingness to work with faith-based constituencies; to learn Tetum, and the ability and readiness to travel by car frequently and widely within Timor-Leste, and outside the country if needed, are also essential.

 Closing date:  Sun, 12/02/2012

For more info, please visit Progressio - TL - Country Representative

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Vaga: Protocol Assistant/Translator



The U.S. Embassy in Dili

Vacancy Announcement

The U.S. Embassy in Dili is seeking an individual for the position of Protocol Assistant/Translator in its Executive office located at Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste.

POSITION: Protocol Assistant/Translator (Full Performance)

BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION:

The incumbent serves as a liaison for the U.S. Embassy between local and diplomatic corps officials; assists in the preparation for tours and programs for high level visiting officials; prepares diplomat notes and maintains a log; communicates with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and diplomatic corps members regarding the Ambassador's presence in Timor-Leste and all other official Embassy correspondence; assists Embassy staff with official visas, and advises the Ambassador, Deputy Chief of Mission, and senior staff on Timorese culture and protocol procedures. The incumbent works under the direct supervision of the Ambassador’s Office Manager and has responsibility to maintain a database of Embassy contacts and to plan and organize representational functions for the Ambassador, Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM), and other mission officials. The incumbent attends representational events as necessary and must be available to work overtime hours. He/she also serves as the primary Translator and Interpreter for the Chief of Mission and other senior staff.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  1. Completion of University degree in International Management, Journalism, Social Science or related field is required;
  2. Minimum 3 years of experience in administrative management or translating and interpreting at high level is required;
  3. Good working knowledge of Microsoft Applications and programs, filing procedures, drafting and writing skills
  4. Level IV in English and Tetun is required.

WHO MAY APPLY:
Local nationals or anyone with the required permits and documentation to legally seek employment in Timor-Leste.

HOW TO APPLY:
Complete DS-174 (Universal Application for Employment). Application forms and detailed Position Description are available at the U.S. Embassy Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste. Applicants may also attach a resume or CV that contains the same information as required in form DS-174.

An attractive salary and fringe benefits package will be commensurate with candidate’s qualifications and experience.

SUBMIT APPLICATION TO:
Human Resources Office, Attention: Recruitment American Embassy, Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste
E-mail: DiliHR2@state.gov or Fax: +670-3324684
 
DO NOT ATTACH PHOTO

 
CLOSING DATE FOR THE POSITION: January 30, 2012

Vaga: Program Management Assistant

The U.S. Embassy in Dili

Vacancy Announcement

The U.S. Embassy in Dili is seeking an individual for the position of Program Management Assistant in its Department of Justice (DOJ) office located at Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste.


 
POSITION: Program Management Assistant (Full Performance)

 
BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION:

The incumbent will be working under the direct supervision of the Resident Legal Advisor (RLA) with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training (OPDAT), assigned to the U.S. Embassy, Dili. The RLA is assisting the government of Timor-Leste in its continuing efforts to develop its justice sector. The RLA program focuses on prosecutor and investigator training and skills development, and provides institutional support for the investigation and prosecution of crimes, including domestic violence, corruption, money-laundering, narcotics, weapons, complex fraud and financial crimes, and human trafficking. The program will also promote legislative reforms, institutional support, and protection of human rights through full and consistent application of the criminal and criminal procedure codes designed to improve the operation of the criminal justice system. DOJ/OPDAT is seeking an Assistant Legal Advisor (ALA) to support the RLA. The ALA will, among other things, advise the RLA on relevant legal, policy, and political issues, help to plan legislative and institutional reform initiatives, review, translate and analyze current and draft legislation, develop and maintain contact and schedule meetings with officials of relevant Timor-Leste government agencies, plan and organize conferences and training sessions, calculate and control budgets, and manage administrative activities in a two-person office.

 
QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
  1. At least 2 years of university education plus relevant work experience;
  2. Minimum 2 years experience in legal field;
  3. Good working knowledge of English Level IV (Good), Level IV Tetum (fluent), working knowledge of Portuguese is preferred, but not required;
  4. Must possess an excellent understanding of the Timor-Leste legal and criminal justice systems.
WHO MAY APPLY:
Local nationals or anyone with the required permits and documentation to legally seek employment in Timor-Leste.

HOW TO APPLY:
Complete DS-174 (Universal Application for Employment). Application forms and detailed Position Description are available at the US. Embassy Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste. Applicants may also attach a resume or CV which contains the same information as required in form DS-174.

An attractive salary and fringe benefits package will be commensurate with candidate’s qualifications and experience.

SUBMIT APPLICATION TO:
Human Resources Office, Attention: Recruitment American Embassy, Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste
E-mail: DiliHR2@state.gov or Fax: +670-3324684

 
DO NOT ATTACH PHOTO
 
CLOSING DATE FOR THE POSITION: January 30, 2012

Vaga: Work Order Control Clerk

The U.S. Embassy in Dili

Vancancy Announcement

The U.S. Embassy in Dili is seeking an individual for the position of Work Order Clerk in the Facilities Maintenance unit of its General Services Office located at Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste.



POSITION: Works Order Control Clerk (Full Performance)

BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION:
The incumbent will be working under the direct supervision of the Facilities Maintenance Supervisor and General Services Officer. The incumbent is responsible for coordinating, scheduling and recording all Facilities Work Order requests for all USG owned and leased properties in Dili, including 16 residences, the USAID Office complex and the Embassy Compound including the IOB and CMR. The individual will be responsible for entering and maintaining all entries into the ILMS system. The Facilities Work Order Assistant will be responsible for coordinating the assignments of the maintenance crews who maintain the compound.


QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
1. Completion of secondary schooling is required.
2. One year of clerical experience or equivalent study in data entry
3. Basic computer data entry skills are required including excel spreadsheet management
4. Level 3 English and level 4 Tetun. Indonesian and Portuguese is desired
Must be able to work effectively with US and LES staff as well as communicate with EFM’s on maintenance issues. Strong interpersonal skills required.

WHO MAY APPLY:
Local nationals or anyone with the required permits and documentation to legally seek employment in Timor-Leste.

HOW TO APPLY:
Complete DS-174 (Universal Application for Employment). Application forms and detailed Position Description are available at the US. Embassy Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste. Applicants may also attach a resume or CV which contains the same information as required in form DS-174.

An attractive salary and fringe benefits package will be commensurate with candidate’s qualifications and experience.


SUBMIT APPLICATION TO:
Human Resources Office, Attention: Recruitment American Embassy, Rua Praia dos Coqueiros Dili, Timor-Leste
E-mail: DiliHR2@state.gov or Fax: +670-3324684
DO NOT ATTACH PHOTO
CLOSING DATE FOR THE POSITION: January 27, 2012

Vaga: Local Guard Force

The U.S. Embassy in Dili

Vacancy Announcement

The U.S. Embassy in Dili is seeking an individual for the position of Local Guard Force in its Regional Security office located at Rua Praia dos Coqueiros, Dili, Timor-Leste.
POSITION: Local Guard Force

BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION:

The incumbent will be working under the direct supervision of the Regional Security Office to perform basic guard duties for the protection of US Government property, facilities and US Government employee residences. This position has the responsibilities of inspecting vehicles and visitors entering U.S. for contraband, weapon and explosives and other prohibited items, maintain vigilance for suspicious person or other suspicious activity that might cause harm to U. S. Government property and employees, perform access control duties as outlined in the Post Guar Order, Screen visitors at all access point to U.S. Government facilities, Perform Residential Security Protective duties as assigned, Perform emergency actions to secure and protect U.S. facilities as required by the situation and perform other local guard duties as outlined in the Post Guard Order.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:
1) Completion of Secondary School is required;
2) Minimum 2 years in enforcement or security fields is desired;
3) Must be able to read and write either English or Bahasa Indonesia at the secondary school level and Tetum as well;
4) A working knowledge of security principles and security practices desirable;
5) Must be able to understand basic security concepts and ideas.

WHO MAY APPLY:
Timor-Leste citizens or individuals with the required permits and documentation to legally seek employment in Timor-Leste.

HOW TO APPLY:
Complete DS-174 (Universal Application for Employment). Application forms and detailed Position Description are available at the U.S. Embassy, Rua Praia dos Coqueiros, Dili, Timor-Leste. Applicants may also attach a resume or CV that contains the same information as required in form DS-174.

An attractive salary and fringe benefits package will be commensurate with candidate’s qualifications and experience.
SUBMIT APPLICATION TO:
Human Resources Office, Attention: Recruitment American Embassy, Rua Praia dos Coqueiros, Dili, Timor-Leste
E-mail: DiliHR2@state.gov or Fax: +670-3324684
DO NOT ATTACH PHOTO
CLOSING DATE FOR THE POSITION: January 23, 2012

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Vaga Servisu: Programme Analyst


 Timor-Leste

Vacancy Announcement 


I. Position Information:
Job Code Title: Programme Analyst
Pre-classified Grade: ICS-9
Supervisor: DRR, ARR(P)
The deadline for submitting applications is: 18 January 2011

II. Organizational Context

Under the guidance and direct supervision of the Deputy Resident Representative or ARR(P), the Programme Analyst is responsible for management of UNDP programme within the thematic/sectoral areas assigned. The Programme Analyst analyzes political, social and economic trends and leads formulation, management and evaluation of programme activities within his/her portfolio, provides policy advice services.
The Programme Analyst supervises and leads programme support staff, coordinates activities of the projects’ staff. The Programme Analyst works in close collaboration with the operations team, programme staff in other UN Agencies, UNDP HQs staff and Government officials, technical advisors and experts, multi-lateral and bi-lateral donors and civil society ensuring successful UNDP programme implementation.

III. Functions / Key Results Expected
Summary of Key Functions:
  1. Implementation of programme strategies
  2. Management of the CO programme
  3. Creation of strategic partnerships and implementation of the resource mobilization strategy
  4. Provision of top quality policy advice services to the Government and facilitation of knowledge building and management
 1.       Ensures implementation of programme strategies focusing on achievement of the following results:
  • Thorough analysis and research of the political, social and economic situation in the country and preparation of substantive inputs to CCA, UNDAF, CPD, CPAP and other documents.
  • Identification of areas for support and interventions within the thematic/sectoral areas assigned
  • CO business processes mapping and preparation of the content of internal Standard Operating Procedures in Results Management.
2.     Ensures effective management of the CO programme within the thematic/sectoral areas assigned focusing on quality control from formulation to implementation of the country programme achieving the following results:
  • Effective application of RBM tools, establishment of management targets (BSC) and monitoring achievement of results.
  • Design and formulation of CO programme within the area of responsibility, translating UNDP’s priorities into local interventions. Coordination of programme implementation with the executing agencies. Introduction of performance indicators/ success criteria, cost recovery, targets and milestones.
  • Initiation of a project, presentation of the project to PAC, entering project into Atlas ( in small offices), finalization of contribution agreement; determination of required revisions; coordination of the mandatory and budget re-phasing exercises, closure of projects through review. Programme Analyst can perform functions of Manager Level 1 in Atlas for POs and vouchers approval, participates in recruitment processes for projects.
  • Financial and substantive monitoring and evaluation of the projects, identification of operational and financial problems, development of solutions. Participation in audit of NEX projects.
  • Follow up on audit recommendations. All exceptions are timely reported.
  • Aggregate reports are regularly prepared on activities, outputs and outcomes. Preparation of donor reports.

3.     Ensures creation of strategic partnerships and implementation of the resource mobilization strategy in cooperation with the Management Support and Business Development Team focusing on achievement of the following results:
  • Development of partnerships with the UN Agencies, IFI’s, government institutions, bi-lateral and multi-lateral donors, private sector, civil society in the specific thematic areas based on strategic goals of UNDP, country needs and donors’ priorities.
  • Analysis and research of information on donors, preparation of substantive briefs on possible areas of cooperation, identification of opportunities for initiation of new projects, active contribution to the overall office effort in resource mobilization.
4.     Ensures provision of top quality advisory services and facilitation of knowledge building and management focusing on achievement of the following results:

  • Identification of sources of information related to policy-driven issues. Identification and synthesis of best practices and lessons learnt directly linked to programme country policy goals.
  • Support to development of policies and institutions that will address the country problems and needs in collaboration with the Government and other strategic partners.
  • Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice.
  • Organization of trainings for the operations/ projects staff on programme issues.

IV. Impact of Results
The key results have an impact on the success of country programme within specific areas of cooperation. In particular, the key results have an impact on the design, operation and programming of activities, creation of strategic partnerships as well as reaching resource mobilization targets.

V. Competencies and Critical Success Factors
 Functional Competencies:
Advocacy/Advancing A Policy-Oriented Agenda

Level 1.2: Ppreparing information for advocacy
  • Identifies and communicates relevant information for a variety of audiences for advocating UNDP’s mandate 
Results-Based Programme Development and Management
Level 1.2: Contributes into results through primary research and analysis
  • Assesses project performance to identify success factors and incorporates best practices into project work
  • Researches linkages across programme activities to identify critical points of integration
  • Monitors specific stages of projects/programme implementation
  • Analyzes country situation to identify opportunities for project development
  • Participates in the formulation of project proposals and ensures substantive rigor in the design and application of proven successful approaches and drafts proposals accordingly
Building Strategic Partnerships
Levle 1.2: Maintaining a network of contacts
  • Maintains an established network of contacts for general information sharing and to remain up-to-date on partnership related issues
  • Analyzes and selects materials for strengthening strategic alliances with partners and stakeholders
Innovation and Marketing New Approaches
Level 1.2: Enhancing processes or products
  • Generates new ideas and proposes new, more effective ways of doing things
  • Documents and analyses innovative strategies/best practices/new approaches
 Resource Mobilization (Field Duty Stations)
Level 1.2: Providing inputs to resource mobilization strategies
  • Analyzes information/databases on potential and actual donors
  • Develops a database of project profiles. Identifies opportunities for project proposals for presentation to donors
Promoting Organizational Learning and Knowledge Sharing
Level 1.2: Basic research and analysis
  • Generates new ideas and approaches, researches best practices and proposes new, more effective ways of doing things
  • Documents and analyses innovative strategies and new approaches
Job Knowledge/Technical Expertise
Level 1.2: Fundamental knowledge of own discipline
  • Understands and applies fundamental concepts and principles of a professional discipline or technical specialty relating to the position
  • Possesses basic knowledge of organizational policies and procedures relating to the position and applies them consistently in work tasks
  • Strives to keep job knowledge up-to-date through self-directed study and other means of learning
  • Demonstrates good knowledge of information technology and applies it in work assignments
  • Demonstrates in-depth understanding and knowledge of the current guidelines and project management tools and utilizes these regularly in work assignments
Global Leadership and Advocacy for UNDP’s Goals
Level 1.2: Preparing information for global advocacy
  • Identifies and communicates relevant information for advocacy for UNDP’s goals for a variety of audiences
  • Identifies and takes advantage of opportunities for advocating for UNDP’s mandate
Client Orientation
Level 1.2: Establishing effective client relationships
  • Researches potential solutions to internal and external client needs and reports back in a timely, succinct and appropriate fashion
  • Organizes and prioritizes work schedule to meet client needs and deadlines
  • Anticipates client needs and addresses them promptly
Core Competencies:
  • Demonstrating/safeguarding ethics and integrity
  • Demonstrate corporate knowledge and sound judgment
  • Self-development, initiative-taking
  • Acting as a team player and facilitating team work
  • Facilitating and encouraging open communication in the team, communicating effectively
  • Creating synergies through self-control
  • Managing conflict
  • Learning and sharing knowledge and encourage the learning of others. Promoting learning and knowledge management/sharing is the responsibility of each staff member.
  • Informed and transparent decision making
Prince2 training and certification, RMG

VI. Recruitment Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor of Degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Economics, Political Sciences, Social Sciences or related field. Master degree will be an advantage
Experience:
At least 4 years (for Bachelor degree) and 2 years (for Master degree) of relevant experience at the national or international level in providing management advisory services, hands-on experience in design, monitoring and evaluation of development projects. Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages, experience in handling of web based management systems.
Language Requirements:
Fluency in the UN and national language of the duty station.

VII. Signatures- Job Description Certification
Incumbent (if applicable)
Name                                                               Signature                                 Date
Supervisor
Name                                                               Signature                                 Date
Chief Division/Section
Name S                                                           Signature                                  Date

How to apply
  • Candidate who wish to apply for the position through email: recruitment.tp@undp.org please send the letter of application together with CV and P11.

  • Candidate who wish to apply with hard copy documentation should send their letter of application together with CV and P11 to the following address:
Human Resources Unit
United Nations Development Programme
Obrigado Barracks Compound, Building 11
Caicoli Street, Dili, Timor-Leste
  • Please note that application letter, CV and P11 form are mandatory documents to be submitted and fail to submit either one of three mention documents will be automatic disqualify.

 

Vaga Servisu: National Project Manager

Timor-Leste


Vacancy Announcement

Project Title: Support to Anti-Corruption Initiatives in Timor-Leste
Position/title: National Project Manager
Type of Contract: Service Contract
Level: SB-4/Peg 4
Duration: 1 (one) year, extendable
Duty station: Dili, Timor-Leste
Expected start date: March 2012
Organization and Unit: UNDP, Governance
Entitles/Benefits: Please obtain from the UNDP Human Resources Unit

Background
Timor-Leste has made positive strides to address the issues of corruption and accountability. The adoption by the National Parliament in 2009 of the law for the establishment of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is a positive indication of the Government’s commitment to strengthen accountability and combating corruption in Timor-Leste. This law provides the ACC with powers such as instigating and pursuing criminal
investigations in corruption offences. Furthermore, the ACC is also mandated with raising awareness on issues related to anti-corruption.

The objective of this project (2011-2013) is two-fold: (1) to strengthen capacities for civic engagement and
partnerships among the ACC and relevant civil society organizations; (2) to strengthen analytical capacity of
the ACC for informed decision making and outreach on anti-corruption.
The National Project Manager (NPM) will work under the supervision of, and will report to the Assistant
Country Director (Governance Unit of UNDP Country Office) on behalf of UNDP.
The NPM will draw upon the guidance of and coordinate closely with the Deputy Commissioner for
Education, Campaign and Research, ACC and work jointly with team of consultants in the project for delivery of project results.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Summary:
  1. Manage the planning of project activities under the framework of the Project Document in consultation with the ACC and UNDP;
  2. Manage the implementation of activities and ensure that project activities and results are delivered in a timely and quality manner and in accordance with the project document and Annual Work Plan;
  3. Ensure efficient and quality project operations in compliance with UNDP and agreed rules and procedures;
  4. Contribute to partnership building for the project, including timely submission of quality project/donor reports;
  5. Manage the project staff to ensure a strong and productive working relationship between team members

1. Coordinate the planning of project activities under the framework of the Project Document in
consultation with the ACC and UNDP with a focus on the following results and tasks:
  • Annual work plans are developed;
  • Undertake consultations with CSOs and other relevant stakeholders in planning;
  • Prepare and facilitate Project Steering Committee (PSC) meetings to present work plans, project
  • progress and strategic issues for PSC guidance and decisions.
2. Coordinate the implementation of activities and ensure that project activities and results are delivered
in a timely and quality manner and in accordance with the project document and Annual Work Plan
focusing on the following results and tasks:
  • Quality and timely oversight and implementation of all project activities and delivery of outputs in accordance with work plan and budget, working closely and in collaboration with ACC and UNDP;
  • Effective management and coordination of project staff and consultants in a manner that ensures achievement of project capacity development goals and priorities;
  • Establishment of an enabling training/ working environment for all staff;
  • Appropriate supervision, reporting, and evaluation mechanisms for all staff recruited under the project;
  • Provision of quality policy and technical advice for the ACC and UNDP in the areas outlined in the project document; 
3. Manage project operations, with a focus on the following results and tasks:
  • Project compliance with corporate rules and regulations in the field and management of project assets, procurement and human resources processes, in liaison with the relevant UNDP units;
  • Timely completion human resources and of procurement processes;
  • Efficient logistics and administrative support to consultancy missions, workshops, overseas learning and other project activities;
  • Accurate and timely management of financial resources of project;
  • Establishment of linkages, initiation and implementation of Memoranda of Understanding/agreements with international and national training institutions.
4. Contribute to partnership building for the project, including timely submission of quality project
reports with a focus on the following results and tasks:
  • Timely submission of quarterly, annual and other reports as necessary to UNDP;
  • Support and strengthen synergies between ACC and relevant CSOs working in the area of anticorruption;
  • Provide regular briefings on the project;
  • Support resource mobilization efforts for the project.
5. Manage the project team to ensure a strong and productive working relationship between team
members:
  • Regular communication with staff (individual and team to ensure that work plan targets and results are discussed ad agreed)
  • Regular feedback is provided to staff in relation to their performance
.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor degree in social science, political science, management, development studies of other relevant subject. Masters degree in relevant studies desirable but it is not requirement.
  • Minimum 4 years of relevant professional experience in programme management and implementation, preferably in a government or donor supported project setting;
  • Proven programming and project management experience required;
  • Sound technical knowledge cross-cutting democratic governance issues.
  • Anti-Corruption work experience an asset;
  • Excellent communications skills;
  • Knowledge of effective capacity development approaches;
  • Ability to work under pressure a multicultural and complex environment.
  • Excellent command of written and spoken Tetum and English is essential.
  • A good command of Portuguese will be an advantage.

Please submit your applications together with curriculum vitae, P11 a list of references and relevant supporting
documents (including academic qualifications) to the following address:
Human Resources Unit
United Nations Development Programme
Obrigado Barracks Compound, Building 11
Caicoli Street,
Dili, Timor-Leste
Fax: +670 3313534
E-mail: recruitment.tp@undp.org

The deadline for submitting applications is 16 January 2012.
Only short-listed candidates will be notified. Women candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.