About the Organization
RTI International is an independent, nonprofit scientific research institute committed to improving the human condition through evidence-based and technical solutions. The organization partners with governments, development agencies, and private sector institutions to solve complex global challenges.
With expertise spanning agriculture, health, education, governance, energy, and economic development, RTI delivers integrated solutions grounded in research and innovation. Its work is driven by a commitment to accountability, impact, and long-term sustainability.
This role is part of RTI’s Center for International Development, which manages large-scale, multidisciplinary programs in developing and fragile contexts. The Center leverages technical excellence and contextual understanding to strengthen institutions and improve livelihoods.
The position supports a five-year USDA Food for Progress initiative in Ethiopia aimed at transforming the sunflower value chain. The program focuses on increasing productivity, improving market access, strengthening financing systems, and addressing policy constraints affecting the agricultural sector.
By strengthening human resources systems and administrative operations, the Human Resources and Administrative Officer will contribute directly to the smooth and effective implementation of this high-impact agricultural development program.
Job Description
The Human Resources and Administrative Officer will oversee human resource functions and support daily administrative operations for the project. The position ensures that HR processes align with RTI policies, donor regulations, and Ethiopian labor laws.
The role includes managing recruitment processes for full-time staff and short-term technical assistance positions. This involves finalizing job descriptions, advertising vacancies, screening applicants, coordinating interviews, and processing employment documentation.
The Officer will provide HR operational support in areas such as compensation and benefits administration, HR information management, performance management, regulatory compliance, and personnel file maintenance.
Ensuring compliance with HR policies, country employee handbooks, and donor requirements will be a core responsibility. The Officer will help foster a professional, ethical, and inclusive workplace culture aligned with RTI values.
The role includes maintaining leave records, monitoring staff absences, and advising employees on leave entitlements. Accurate documentation and tracking will be essential.
The Officer will also coordinate pension management activities, including liaising with pension authorities and facilitating pension ID processes for newly hired staff.
Performance management and staff development will form part of the responsibilities. The Officer will support implementation of talent development initiatives and onboarding processes for new employees.
In administration, the position requires establishing and maintaining an organized filing system in accordance with project procedures.
The Officer will manage fleet operations by coordinating vehicle usage, monitoring maintenance schedules, tracking fuel consumption, and ensuring compliance with donor and organizational policies.
The role includes supporting logistical arrangements for meetings, workshops, interviews, and client engagements. This may involve arranging travel, accommodations, training materials, and workshop supplies.
The Officer will maintain inventory systems for office equipment and supplies, ensuring accurate records and timely replenishment.
Petty cash management and processing small payments will also be part of the role.
Additional administrative and HR-related duties may be assigned to support overall project operations.
Educational Qualification
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree with at least one year of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with at least three years of relevant experience. Equivalent combinations of education and professional experience will be considered.
Professional HR certifications will be considered an advantage.
Work Experience
Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of HR policies, Ethiopian labor laws, and regulations governing donor-funded projects.
Experience working on U.S. government-funded projects is an added advantage.
Applicants should have experience supporting recruitment, performance management, HR compliance, and administrative operations.
Experience working in multicultural and team-oriented environments is highly desirable.
Required Skills and Competencies
Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and Amharic are required.
Applicants must demonstrate a high level of professionalism, discretion, and cultural sensitivity.
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure are essential.
Candidates should possess excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint is required.
The ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information responsibly is critical.
Job Location
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Employment Type and Salary
This is a full-time position under a five-year development program.
Salary and benefits will be competitive and aligned with organizational policies and candidate qualifications.
This role offers strong professional growth opportunities in human resources management within an international development environment. Employees will gain exposure to donor-funded project operations, HR compliance frameworks, and talent development systems.
Working with RTI provides a platform to develop leadership capabilities, strengthen HR systems expertise, and contribute to meaningful agricultural and economic transformation in Ethiopia.
RTI is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.
Please note that scanned certificates or additional attachments are not required at the time of application.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants should apply online through RTI International’s official careers portal using the following link:
https://careers.rti.org/jobs/13313?lang=en-us
Applications must be submitted no later than February 25, 2026. Late applications may not be considered.