Fixed Term Versus Temporary Assignment

[Kokolicious]

I recently (finally!) got two offers with a UN agency after more than 5 years of applying. I am however at a crossroad . One is a position in AFRO, a fixed term P3 , 2 years. The second one is in Europe- a P4 Temporary, 2 years assignment. Based on my experience and education, I am at a P4 level.

What is the difference between fixed and temporary, what do you advice? What are the risks and what factors should I put into consideration in deciding?

Thanks

[cherrygirl]

I would def go for a P3 if it is a FTA. Then I would aim for a P4 FTAs whilst being on the P3 FTA. There are too many risks in the UN system and you can easily loose your job.

[Shabazz The Disciple]

I recently (finally!) got two offers with a UN agency after more than 5 years of applying. I am however at a crossroad . One is a position in AFRO, a fixed term P3 , 2 years. The second one is in Europe- a P4 Temporary, 2 years assignment. Based on my experience and education, I am at a P4 level.

What is the difference between fixed and temporary, what do you advice? What are the risks and what factors should I put into consideration in deciding?

Thanks

Congrats Kokolicous, I am so happy happy for you, which agencies were these? A fixed term contract is more secure with more benefits than a temporary one, but to be sure ask where the source of income is coming from, nothing is secure in the UN these days. Anyway I am really happy for you. After 5 years of applications, you never gave up

[pupuce]

I'm a bit confused. I understood all P positions were fixed term, and an FTA is by definition temporary? Could someone please explain the difference between a P4 FTA and a P4 Temporary for example?

To OP: I was in your shoes a few months ago and had to choose between a P3 FTA and a ICAA 11 (P4 equivalent). I took the P3. Unless you have any objection moving to Africa (in that case take the position in Europe), that would be the reasonable choice.

[Kokolicious]

Thanks everyone. After weighing several factors, my family and I decided to accept the P-4 in Europe. We think it’s a better environment for our young kids (9 and 12 years old) and the duties align better with my background and career goals. Also a P-3 is way below my current experience and will in fact be a salary cut for me. I asked about the funding source about the temporary position, the hiring manager is very positive that this is a relatively stable funding source. The person that was in the position has had it for 4 years but is leaving because her husband accepted another position outside the region. It’s a big risk but we will see how things go. My friend left a 2year FTA for another UN agency because his contract renewal was very uncertain as the program had funding issues.

[prdeepak]

Hi Kokolicious

Congratulations and all the very best. It is a well-deserved appointment as you did not give up for the past 5 years. If I may ask, was your selection from a roster or was this offer after an interview?

Thanks,
Prati

Thanks everyone. After weighing several factors, my family and I decided to accept the P-4 in Europe. We think it’s a better environment for our young kids (9 and 12 years old) and the duties align better with my background and career goals. Also a P-3 is way below my current experience and will in fact be a salary cut for me. I asked about the funding source about the temporary position, the hiring manager is very positive that this is a relatively stable funding source. The person that was in the position has had it for 4 years but is leaving because her husband accepted another position outside the region. It’s a big risk but we will see how things go. My friend left a 2year FTA for another UN agency because his contract renewal was very uncertain as the program had funding issues.

[Kokolicious]

Hi Prati, this was not through a roster. I went through a written assessment, then an interview and presentation

[prdeepak]

Thanks kokolicious.
quote=Kokolicious post_id=2965 time=1574723685 user_id=745]
Hi Prati, this was not through a roster. I went through a written assessment, then an interview and presentation
[/quote]