Individual Contractor Agreement holders (ICAs) are a key resource for UNOPS and its partners. There are three types of ICAs, depending on the scope of functions and the place of work: International ICA, Local ICA Specialist and Local ICA Support. Subject to organizational needs, availability of funds and the individual’s satisfactory performance, ICAs have the opportunity to work for UNOPS for a short period (from 1 hour to 3 months) or longer-term through a full-time agreement without a pre-determined end date.
There are three types of agreements available:
International ICA – Specialist personnel performs expert or advisory functions outside of their home country or place of residence, and normally require at least a Master’s degree or equivalent educational background.
Local ICA Specialist – Personnel perform specialist, expert, or advisory functions in their home country or place of residence, and normally require at least a Master’s degree or equivalent educational background.
Local ICA Support – Personnel perform support or administrative functions in their home country or place of residence at a level normally not requiring a Master’s degree or equivalent.
Remuneration of International ICAs
International ICAs are offered an all-inclusive, lump-sum monthly fee. In addition, International ICAs are entitled to additional benefits such as attractive training opportunities, paid annual leave, and paid parental and sick leave. UNOPS also offers the option to enroll in a Provident fund (saving scheme).
International ICA fees are competitive and range within a given post level, depending on a number of factors. The base fee takes into account the level of the contract and the current market rate for similar roles, as well as the cost of living and hardship at the respective duty station. Additionally, elements such as the degree of specialization, the complexity of the tasks, education or experience in excess of the required minimum can be considered. Fees are negotiated directly with the individual contractor, taking into account these factors within the applicable fee ranges for each level.
Remuneration of Local ICAs
Local ICA fees reflect the market rates and best conditions found locally for work of similar quality and complexity. The fees vary from country to country, taking into account the availability of local labor with the required levels of skills and competencies. Local ICAs with contracts of three months or more are entitled to additional benefits such as training, an attractive medical insurance plan (including life insurance and disability benefits), Provident Fund, paid annual leave, and paid parental and sick leaves.