About the Organization
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) stands as a foundational pillar for progress across the African continent. Established by the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, its mission is centered on delivering innovative ideas and concrete actions for an empowered and transformed Africa. By focusing on macroeconomic policy, innovative financing, and regional integration, the ECA serves as a strategic partner to member states, helping to navigate the complexities of global and regional economic landscapes.
Working within the ECA means being part of a legacy dedicated to sustainable development. The organization operates at the intersection of policy research and advocacy, providing a platform for intellectual leadership and technical cooperation. Every staff member contributes to a larger vision of shared prosperity and social inclusion, ensuring that Africa’s growth is both resilient and equitable.
Our workplace culture is built on the core values of integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity. We believe that a multinational and multicultural environment fosters the creativity and innovation necessary to tackle the continent’s most pressing challenges. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do, as we work alongside international partners and local stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
Professional growth is a cornerstone of the ECA experience. We provide our personnel with the tools and opportunities to expand their skills within the international civil service framework. Whether through exposure to high-level policy discussions or technical training in specialized systems, a career here is a journey of continuous learning and impact.
The ECA is deeply committed to achieving gender parity and promoting diversity within its workforce. We believe that our organization should reflect the diverse populations we serve. We strongly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply for our vacancies, as we strive to create an inclusive environment where every voice is heard and valued.
Job Description and Strategic Impact
The Human Resources Assistant role is a vital component of the Recruitment Services Unit (RSU) within the Human Resources Management Section. This position is not merely administrative; it is a strategic function that ensures the ECA attracts and integrates the brightest young African professionals. By managing the recruitment for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation (MIF) Fellowship, you directly contribute to the development of the next generation of African leaders.
In this role, you will be the primary point of contact for aspiring professionals across the continent. Your work in screening and coordinating applications ensures that the recruitment process remains transparent, efficient, and of the highest standard. This role is essential for maintaining the integrity of the fellowship program, which is a flagship initiative for leadership development in Africa.
The impact of this position extends to the broader operational efficiency of the ECA. By providing backup support for the Recruitment and Placement Management System (RPMS) and assisting in the transition to the SSG project, you help modernize our HR processes. This digital transformation is key to the ECA’s ability to remain agile and responsive to the needs of the organization and its personnel.
A day in this role involves high-level coordination and meticulous attention to detail. From managing complex email inboxes to facilitating interview panels, you will be at the center of the recruitment lifecycle. You will also support the engagement of consultants for high-impact projects, such as the Google-funded initiative for data integration in Africa, showcasing the diversity of HR tasks under your purview.
Career development in this position is robust. You will gain deep insights into United Nations recruitment protocols, data analytics, and project management. As you support the onboarding of new fellows and consultants, you will build a professional network that spans various divisions and international partner organizations, providing a strong foundation for a long-term career in international human resources.
Job Positions and Requirements
Human Resources Assistant
Educational Qualification: A High school diploma is required. A first-level university degree or higher is considered an advantage and will lead to a reduction in the required years of professional experience.
Work Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in human resources management or administrative services is required. If the candidate possesses a university degree, the requirement is reduced to 3 years. Specific experience in the recruitment of affiliated personnel is a mandatory requirement.
Job Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Salary: Negotiable/Per Scale
No. Required: 1
Required Skills and Competencies: Candidates must demonstrate fluency in oral and written English. Knowledge of French or another official United Nations language is a significant advantage. Proficiency in data analytics, inbox management, and experience with HR management systems like RPMS is highly desirable. Candidates must exhibit strong organizational skills and the ability to handle sensitive documentation with confidentiality.
Employment Type and Compensation
This position is offered as a contract role with an expected duration of 9 months. It provides a stable and professional environment within the UN system, allowing the successful candidate to contribute to high-priority projects. The contract nature of the role offers a focused window to make a significant impact on the recruitment and onboarding of African fellows and consultants.
The compensation package for this role is competitive and aligned with the United Nations salary scales for General Service staff. Beyond the financial remuneration, the ECA provides a growth-oriented environment where performance is recognized. Working here offers the prestige of the UN brand combined with the practical satisfaction of contributing to Africa’s economic transformation.
We emphasize a healthy work-life balance and provide a supportive atmosphere that encourages personal and professional well-being. Staff members are encouraged to take advantage of internal training resources and to participate in the vibrant professional community based in Addis Ababa.
How to Apply
The application process at the United Nations is designed to be accessible and straightforward. We want to hear about your experience and your motivation for joining our mission. Please ensure that your application accurately reflects your qualifications and your specific experience in recruitment and administration.
At this initial application phase, scanned certificates, transcripts, or other physical attachments are NOT required. We encourage you to focus on providing a detailed and accurate profile through the official application channel. This helps us streamline the review process and focus on the substance of your professional background.
Original documents and academic credentials will be required only for physical verification if you are invited to the interview stage. This verification is a standard part of our integrity and vetting process to ensure the highest standards of the international civil service.
Please note that due to the high volume of interest in our positions, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. If you do not hear from us within a reasonable timeframe after the deadline, you may assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion.
Following the application deadline, our recruitment team will conduct a preliminary assessment and eligibility screening. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited for further technical assessments or interviews. Interested candidates should submit their application via the official United Nations recruitment portal as the primary channel.
Application Deadline
May 18, 2026
Official Application Link / Contact
Applications should be submitted through the United Nations careers portal or the specific link provided on the ECA recruitment page at
Apply link