The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the global authority that sets the environmental agenda, promotes coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development, and serves as an influential advocate for the global environment. As part of its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional service and advancing sustainable development, UNEP is seeking a qualified and motivated individual to join its Corporate Services Division (CSD) in Nairobi, Kenya, as a Procurement Assistant.
The CSD serves as UNEP’s backbone, safeguarding its corporate interests, minimizing operational risks, and empowering the organization through strategic management tools, planning, and capacity development. Within CSD, the Procurement and Partnerships Unit ensures seamless support in operational areas, enhancing programme delivery efficiency.
If you are passionate about global environmental advocacy, possess strong organizational skills, and are looking to work in an international and multicultural environment, this could be your opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the UN’s mission.
Position Overview: Procurement Assistant
Department: Corporate Services Division
Unit: Procurement and Partnerships Unit
Location: Nairobi Duty Station
Job Type: Full-time
Level: General Service
Posting Date: May 5, 2025
Job ID: Not Provided
Duties and Responsibilities
As a Procurement Assistant, the selected candidate will work under the direct supervision of the Chief of Section, Procurement. The role involves delivering procurement support services to ensure timely, cost-effective, and high-quality delivery in line with UN policies and procedures. Key responsibilities include:
- Review, record, and prioritize purchasing requests and obtain additional information/documentation as required; determine the availability of vendors and funding sources.
- Monitor status of existing requisitions/requests and maintain contact with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of goods and services; coordinate shipment of goods/commodities/equipment; verify receipt and inspection of deliverables and accurately report on delivery status.
- Produce tender documents (e.g., Invitations to Bid, Requests for Proposals, Requests for Quotations) based on the nature of requirements and cost of procurement involved.
- Prepare abstracts of offers and compile data for evaluation; contact suppliers to obtain clarifications and negotiate contract terms.
- Assist in the preparation of proposals for award of contracts to the relevant review bodies.
- Prepare and present procurement files for review and approval by authorized officials.
- Draft and issue contracts; monitor contractual obligations and deadlines to ensure compliance.
- Maintain relevant internal databases and files; keep track of contractual agreements and purchase orders using UN’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.
- Research and retrieve statistical data from internal and external sources; prepare reports and summary tables to facilitate decision-making.
- Draft routine correspondence related to procurement matters and respond to queries from stakeholders.
- Provide administrative support to meetings, including preparation of agendas, documentation, and follow-up actions.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor to ensure continuity and efficiency in procurement operations.
Competencies Required
The ideal candidate must demonstrate a commitment to the values and guiding principles of the United Nations. Key competencies for this role include:
- Professionalism: Strong understanding of procurement policies, procedures, and practices. Ability to analyze and interpret data. Familiarity with procurement and contract management tools.
- Planning and Organizing: Excellent time management and ability to prioritize tasks under tight deadlines.
- Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals and support team decisions.
- Client Orientation: Consistently maintains a service-oriented attitude and anticipates client needs.
- Communication: Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills; ability to draft routine correspondence and convey information concisely.
Education
Details on minimum education qualifications were not provided in the job listing.
Job-Specific Qualifications
No specific professional certifications or qualifications were mentioned.
Work Experience
While the job posting does not specify minimum years of experience, candidates are expected to have relevant experience in:
- Procurement operations or supply chain management
- Vendor management and contract processing
- Use of enterprise systems (preferably SAP-based platforms like Umoja)
- Administrative and database management support in international or multi-agency settings
Languages
- English: Fluency in spoken and written English is required.
- Other UN Languages: Knowledge of an additional UN language (e.g., French, Spanish) is desirable.
Assessment
Qualified candidates may be assessed through a competency-based interview and/or written assessment, in line with UN recruitment procedures.
Special Notice
- Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and assignment to any activities or offices of the United Nations.
- Appointments are made on a local basis, regardless of nationality.
- Candidates must meet eligibility requirements as per the UN Secretariat guidelines.
United Nations Considerations
- The UN is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages all qualified applicants, regardless of gender, nationality, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or age, to apply.
- The UN does not charge fees at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, processing, or training).
- Candidates should be aware of fraudulent job offers that misrepresent the UN.
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity at the United Nations Environment Programme, please click the link below and follow the application instructions on the official UN Careers portal.
