Are you passionate about international development? Do you have a strong background in international assistance programming? Would you like to be part of an inclusive and respectful workplace that fosters cooperation and promotes Canadian values abroad?
The High Commission of Canada to Kenya is currently seeking an experienced, action-oriented, and highly competent International Assistance Officer to join its team in Nairobi. This is a unique opportunity to support Canada’s international development initiatives across Kenya, Somalia, Uganda, and Eritrea while working with a globally respected diplomatic mission.
About the Opportunity
As the Canadian government’s official representation in Kenya, the High Commission plays a pivotal role in strengthening international partnerships, delivering development assistance, and contributing to regional peace, security, and prosperity.
This job opening for an International Assistance Officer (Selection Process Nº: 210943-6) is ideal for professionals with a proven track record in managing international assistance programs and a deep understanding of the development context in Eastern Africa.
Position Details
- Job Title: International Assistance Officer
- Classification: LE-O1
- Salary: KES 4,004,663 per annum + benefits
- Contract Type: Indeterminate or Term (Full-time)
- Working Hours: 37.5 hours/week, Monday to Friday
- Location: High Commission of Canada to Kenya, Nairobi
- Vacancies: 1
- Closing Date: 24 May 2025 at 23:59 UTC/GMT +3:00
Job Function: What You’ll Be Doing
Reporting to the Head of Cooperation, the International Assistance Officer will play a vital role in managing and supporting Canada’s international assistance initiatives within the High Commission’s countries of accreditation: Kenya, Somalia, Uganda, and Eritrea.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing and providing support for international assistance initiatives in the region.
- Conducting research and analysis of development trends, policies, and thematic areas relevant to Canada’s programming.
- Coordinating the delivery and implementation of development projects in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
- Providing detailed briefings, recommendations, and strategic insights to senior management.
- Participating in donor coordination groups and maintaining strong partnerships with development agencies and multilateral partners.
- Ensuring projects comply with Canada’s international assistance priorities and policies.
This role is dynamic and requires a proactive individual with a strong analytical mindset, excellent communication skills, and a sound understanding of international development operations.
Essential Qualifications
To be considered, applicants must meet all of the following essential criteria:
Education
- University degree in any relevant field from a recognized university.
Candidates will be required to provide proof of education upon request.
Language Requirements
- Fluent English (spoken, written, comprehension).
- Intermediate spoken Somali.
Language skills will be assessed during the selection process.
Experience
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Minimum 5 years of experience in managing international assistance programming.
- Minimum 5 years conducting research and analysis of trends and developments related to international assistance program/project/thematic initiatives.
Rated Requirements: What We’re Looking For
Candidates who meet the essential qualifications will be assessed against the following knowledge, competencies, and abilities:
Knowledge
- A solid understanding of international assistance trends in Kenya, Uganda, Somalia, and Eritrea.
Abilities
- Manage time efficiently while balancing multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Analyze and synthesize information to provide actionable insights and recommendations.
- Present findings clearly in both written and verbal formats.
- Coordinate complex information flows from multiple sources.
Competencies
- Initiative and action-oriented mindset.
- Analytical thinking and strategic planning.
- High level of integrity and respect.
- Effective teamwork and collaboration.
Asset Qualifications
Preference may be given to candidates who possess one or more of the following assets:
- Experience working with international donor partners.
- Experience working with Global Affairs Canada.
- Fluency in Somali, Swahili, or French (spoken, written, comprehension).
Be sure to clearly demonstrate how you meet these asset qualifications in your application.
Operational Requirements
- Must be available to work overtime occasionally, including evenings or weekends.
- Work schedule is 37.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
Conditions of Employment
This position is subject to several mandatory employment conditions:
- Legal authorization to work in Kenya for the full duration of the contract.
- Successful completion of a security screening process (Reliability Status) including criminal and credit background checks.
- Meet the employer’s medical requirements.
- Provide satisfactory references.
- Provide a local residence address in Kenya at the time of offer.
Important Considerations
- The High Commission of Canada to Kenya does not sponsor work permits or visas.
- Applications must be submitted in English or French.
- Only those legally residing in Kenya will be considered.
- AI-generated content is strictly prohibited. Any submission found to be generated using artificial intelligence tools may be disqualified.
- Do not include personal details such as age, gender, marital status, or photos in your application.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Government of Canada is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including women, people with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and Indigenous peoples.
We also provide accommodation throughout the hiring process. If you require any accommodation, please contact:
[email protected]
All communication throughout the selection process will be by email. Please make sure to provide a valid email address and check your inbox (including spam folders) regularly.
Selection Process: What to Expect
Qualified applicants will undergo a comprehensive assessment that may include:
- Written exams
- Oral interviews (in-person or virtual)
- Role-playing exercises
- Practical and/or psychometric assessments
Reference checks will be conducted for successful candidates prior to a final job offer.
This competition may also be used to create a pool of qualified candidates for similar positions at the mission in the future.
Please note: Travel or relocation costs will not be reimbursed.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online using the VidCruiter platform. No email or physical applications will be accepted unless an exemption is requested and granted before the deadline.
Apply Now
Ensure your application includes:
- Comprehensive answers to the screening questions.
- Specific examples that demonstrate how you meet each essential and asset qualification.
- CV and/or cover letter in English or French (as requested).
