About the Organization
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a cornerstone of international cooperation, established to support member states in their efforts to achieve economic transformation and sustainable development. As a vital arm of the United Nations, the ECA serves as a strategic hub for research, policy analysis, and technical advocacy. Our mission is centered on fostering regional integration and providing the technical expertise necessary for Africa to navigate the complexities of the global economy, ensuring a prosperous future for all.
Operating from the historic headquarters in Addis Ababa, the ECA provides a professional environment defined by international standards, multicultural collaboration, and excellence in facility management. The physical integrity of our compound is essential to our diplomatic mission. As the compound expands to serve as a “UN Common House” for multiple international agencies, the demand for high-quality technical maintenance of our infrastructure has never been greater.
At the ECA, we believe that every technical professional—from engineers to skilled metal workers—plays a critical role in the UN’s global impact. Working within the Facilities Management Section (FMS) offers the unique opportunity to maintain world-class buildings and infrastructure that host heads of state and global experts. We prioritize a culture of safety, precision, and professional pride, ensuring that our technical staff has the resources needed to excel.
We are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the global community we serve. The United Nations is an equal opportunity employer that provides a stable and supportive workplace where craftsmanship and technical proficiency are highly valued. We encourage long-term professional development and provide an environment where technical skills are respected and recognized as essential to the mission.
In line with our commitment to gender equity and social inclusion, we strongly encourage women and members of underrepresented groups to apply for this technical role. The UN is dedicated to breaking barriers in the skilled trades and recognizes that diverse perspectives are essential for maintaining a resilient and innovative infrastructure. We believe in providing a workplace where all technical staff can thrive and contribute to the maintenance of the United Nations’ physical heritage.
Job Description and Strategic Impact
The role of the Maintenance Worker for Metal Works (G4) is foundational to the physical security and operational continuity of the United Nations headquarters in Addis Ababa. This position is not merely about mechanical repairs; it is about securing the doors, windows, and infrastructure that protect thousands of international civil servants. By ensuring that every lock, grill, and metal structure is perfectly functional, you provide the foundational safety necessary for global diplomacy to thrive.
As part of the Civil Works and Housekeeping Unit, the Metal Works specialist plays a strategic role in the “UN Common House” initiative. As more UN agencies move into the shared compound, the incumbent is responsible for modifying and maintaining office accessories and partitions that facilitate collaborative work environments. Your impact is visible in the physical transformation of the Old and New office buildings into modern, high-functioning workspaces.
A day in the life of a Metal Works technician at the ECA involves a dynamic range of skilled tasks, from fabricating security booths and directional signs to precision welding and glass cutting. You will be responsible for the full lifecycle of metal fixtures, including the installation of hydraulic door closers, the repair of aluminum partitions, and the maintenance of essential equipment in the metal workshop. This role offers the opportunity to work with advanced tools like demographer machines for precision printing and professional key duplicating systems.
The strategic importance of this role extends to the residence of the Executive Secretary and the highest-level conference facilities. You are the technical expert tasked with ensuring that metal structures—ranging from manhole covers to security fences—are fabricated to international quality and safety standards. This work requires a high degree of accountability, as you will be responsible for preparing requisitions for materials and spare parts, ensuring the workshop is always ready to respond to urgent requests.
Career development within the UN for technical professionals is built on a foundation of reliability and craftsmanship. By excelling in this role, you demonstrate the technical competence and organizational skills required for advanced facility management responsibilities. The ECA provides a unique platform where manual skill and engineering precision are valued, contributing to the professional management of one of the most important diplomatic sites in the world.
Job Positions and Requirements
Maintenance Worker – Metal Works (G4)
Educational Qualification: High School completion is required. Specialized skills in metal works, civil works, and general construction are essential.
Work Experience: Demonstrated expertise in welding (various metals), fabricating metal structures, repairing locks and door accessories, and working with aluminum partitions. Experience in a professional metal workshop setting is highly valued.
Job Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (ECA Compound)
Salary: Negotiable/Per UN Consultant Scale (CON)
No. Required: 1
Employment Type and Compensation
This position is offered as a consultancy contract with an expected duration of 9 months. It provides an exceptional opportunity to gain international technical experience within the United Nations system, offering a stable and professional work environment in a world-class facility.
Compensation for this role is competitive and aligned with the United Nations scale for G4-level consultants and individual contractors. The package is designed to attract highly skilled metal workers who are committed to delivering high-quality, durable structural solutions. Beyond the financial rewards, the role offers the prestige of being part of the UN team and the chance to contribute to the maintenance of an internationally recognized landmark.
The UN provides a merit-based environment where technical initiative and safety consciousness are recognized. This 9-month engagement serves as a significant professional milestone, providing the incumbent with international experience that is highly regarded in the construction and engineering sectors globally. We ensure that our technical staff have access to high-quality materials and professional-grade tools to perform their duties safely.
How to Apply
In alignment with our streamlined recruitment procedures, candidates are NOT required to provide scanned certificates or physical attachments during the initial application stage. We encourage you to focus on accurately reflecting your technical skills in welding, fabrication, and metal maintenance within your application profile.
Verification of original academic and technical certifications will only be requested for candidates who advance to the interview and practical assessment stage. This approach ensures a fair and efficient screening process based on the merits of the applicant’s actual craftsmanship and professional background.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. We are seeking a dedicated professional who can maintain our metal structures to the highest standards of safety and aesthetic quality.
The selection process will likely include a practical trade test in the metal workshop to verify welding and fabrication skills. We aim to identify a reliable technician capable of managing the metal workshop’s daily operations while following strict UN safety and requisition protocols.
Interested candidates must submit their application through the official UN Careers portal (Inspira) using the Job Opening ID provided below.
Application Deadline
April 21, 2026