Job Advertisement: Procurement Assistant (G-6) – UNEP, Nairobi
Job Opening ID: 257085
Job Network: Logistics, Transportation and Supply Chain
Job Family: Procurement
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Department/Office: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
Category and Level: General Service and Related Categories, G-6
Date Posted: May 5, 2025
Deadline: June 3, 2025
Join the Global Environmental Mission at UNEP
Are you passionate about sustainable development and eager to make a meaningful impact through efficient procurement processes? The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) invites qualified and motivated candidates to apply for the position of Procurement Assistant (G-6) based in Nairobi, Kenya.
UNEP is the global authority that sets the environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. The Corporate Services Division (CSD) ensures the efficient and accountable management of UNEP’s operations. This role is part of the Procurement and Partnerships Unit within the CSD, supporting the effective delivery of environmental programmes around the world.
As a Procurement Assistant, you will be working under the direct supervision of the Chief of Section, Procurement. You will be part of a team responsible for procurement planning, sourcing, and contract administration across UNEP’s global initiatives.
Job Description: Procurement Assistant (G-6)
1. Procurement and Sourcing Support
- Review, record and prioritize purchasing requests, and obtain additional information/documentation as required.
- Provide assistance to requisitioners in preparing scope of work and specifications of goods and services.
- Prepare and present tender documents and solicit bids for complex purchases through RFQs, ITBs, and RFPs.
- Evaluate offers and recommend award of contract based on price and delivery requirements.
- Assist in the review and preparation of purchase orders and contracts for goods and services.
2. Contract and Vendor Management
- Monitor status of existing requisitions and maintain contact with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
- Coordinate shipment of goods/commodities/equipment, including liaising with customs officials.
- Maintain relevant internal databases and files; keep track of any contractual agreements and purchase orders.
- Update the procurement plan and related tracking systems regularly.
- Draft and prepare various reports, correspondence, and documents related to procurement activities.
3. Advisory and Compliance Support
- Provide advice to requesting units on the full range of procurement policies and procedures, particularly regarding complex cases.
- Ensure procurement activities are conducted in compliance with UN Financial Rules and Regulations and Procurement Manual.
- Liaise with relevant stakeholders to resolve procurement-related issues.
- Participate in procurement review meetings and vendor evaluations.
4. Administrative and Team Support
- Maintain records of goods ordered and received.
- Assist in the preparation of budget and procurement plans.
- Act as focal point for procurement transactions and provide guidance to junior staff.
- Perform other duties as required by the supervisor or unit.
Key Competencies
- Professionalism: Proven knowledge of procurement regulations and rules. Ability to conduct independent research and analysis, identify issues, and recommend solutions.
- Planning and Organizing: Effective time management skills and ability to establish priorities and plan, coordinate and monitor work.
- Client Orientation: Ability to build trust and client satisfaction by delivering services that meet client needs.
- Communication: Excellent written and spoken communication skills, including ability to draft clear and concise reports and correspondence.
- Teamwork: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with people in a multicultural environment.
Work Experience Requirements
- A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in procurement, administrative services, or related area.
- Experience in using enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, such as Umoja or SAP, is desirable.
- Experience within international organizations or the UN system is an added advantage.
- Experience in reviewing and preparing procurement documents and reports is highly desirable.
Languages
- English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.
- Fluency in English is required for this position.
- Knowledge of another UN official language is an advantage.
Assessment
Qualified applicants may be evaluated through a competency-based interview and/or a written assessment.
Special Notice
This position is open to candidates who are legally eligible to work in Kenya. Staff members are subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and assignment by him or her. All staff are expected to move periodically to new functions as per established rules and guidelines.
United Nations Considerations
The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion. Women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and candidates from developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply. All appointments are made on the basis of merit and organizational needs. The UN does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
