Job Opportunity at the United Nations: Finance and Budget Assistant (G-5)
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Job ID: 259785 | Job Network: Management and Administration | Job Family: Finance
Application Deadline: 30 June 2025, 23:59 (New York Time)
Introduction
Are you detail-oriented, highly organized, and experienced in finance or budget administration? Do you want to contribute to the global mission of the United Nations while advancing your career in a dynamic international work environment?
The United Nations is seeking to recruit a Finance and Budget Assistant at the G-5 level to be based in Nairobi, Kenya. As part of the Finance job family within the Management and Administration job network, the successful candidate will play a vital role in supporting financial and budgetary processes across various programmes and projects. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a globally respected institution committed to peace, sustainable development, and international cooperation.
Job Description: Finance and Budget Assistant (G-5)
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the direct supervision of a Finance or Budget Officer and overall guidance of the Chief of the Section or Unit, the Finance and Budget Assistant will perform a wide range of financial, budgetary, and administrative support duties including but not limited to the following:
Budget and Financial Management Support
- Assist in the preparation of financial and budgetary documents and reports, including the biennial and annual work plans, budget submissions, and performance reports.
- Monitor and record expenditure and compare with approved budgets, identifying any variances.
- Review and verify obligations and expenditures to ensure accuracy, proper authorization, and availability of funds.
- Track the status of expenditures and allotments using Umoja (SAP ERP system) and produce relevant financial reports as required.
- Process fund commitments, requisitions, purchase orders, and payments in accordance with UN financial rules and regulations.
Financial Data Entry and Reconciliation
- Maintain accurate financial records and documentation for internal control and audit purposes.
- Enter and review financial data in the system to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Assist in reconciling accounts and ensure that discrepancies are identified and resolved in a timely manner.
- Generate periodic financial reports for management and external stakeholders.
Support to Programme and Project Implementation
- Provide assistance to programme and project managers in budget implementation by supporting the monitoring of financial performance.
- Draft cost estimates and budgets for project proposals, grant submissions, or programmatic activities.
- Assist in the review of project budgets and ensure adherence to approved financial limits and timelines.
- Liaise with other UN departments, field offices, and external vendors to resolve financial issues and clarify budget-related matters.
General Administrative and Logistical Tasks
- Respond to internal and external queries and provide routine information and guidance on financial procedures and processes.
- Prepare and process financial transactions and requests such as reimbursements, travel claims, vendor payments, and invoice verifications.
- Ensure proper filing and archiving of financial and administrative documentation in accordance with UN guidelines.
- Assist in the organization of budget-related meetings, workshops, and trainings by coordinating logistics, preparing documentation, and taking notes.
Audit and Compliance Support
- Assist in supporting internal and external audit activities by preparing and submitting requested documentation and clarifications.
- Maintain confidentiality of financial data and adhere strictly to the UN financial and ethical standards.
- Ensure transactions comply with the applicable financial regulations, rules, and policies of the United Nations.
Other Duties
- Perform other related duties as assigned, including backing up colleagues during absences, participating in process improvement efforts, and supporting cross-functional activities.
- Stay updated with the latest financial systems, tools, and procedures relevant to the UN Secretariat and the Nairobi duty station.
Expected Skills and Competencies
While specific qualifications are not provided in the job announcement, candidates are expected to demonstrate the following:
- Professionalism: Sound knowledge of financial principles, budgetary practices, and financial control mechanisms. Ability to interpret and apply UN financial regulations and rules. Ability to identify issues, formulate options, and make recommendations.
- Planning and Organizing: Ability to plan and prioritize own work and manage competing deadlines effectively. Must be able to work independently and with minimal supervision.
- Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and ability to perform complex data entry, reconciliation, and report generation with precision.
- Teamwork: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and cultures, supporting team objectives and sharing knowledge.
- Technological Awareness: Proficiency in financial management software (preferably SAP/Umoja) and Microsoft Office applications (especially Excel, Word, Outlook).
- Communication: Ability to draft clearly and concisely and to communicate financial information effectively to both financial and non-financial personnel.
Location and Work Environment
The duty station for this position is Nairobi, Kenya, home to the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) – the only UN headquarters in Africa and a hub for global environmental and human settlement programmes (UNEP and UN-Habitat).
The working environment is international, multicultural, and professional, offering opportunities for learning and growth within one of the world’s most respected multilateral organizations.
Contract and Remuneration
This position is classified at the General Service G-5 level, which includes a competitive salary and benefits package in accordance with United Nations guidelines. Local recruitment applies; applicants must reside within commuting distance of the duty station or be willing to relocate at their own expense.
Application Deadline
30 June 2025 at 23:59 (New York Time)
Late applications will not be considered.
