Education:

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least one year of relevant experience

About the Organization
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global humanitarian agency dedicated to protecting and supporting people forced to flee conflict, persecution, and disasters. Operating in over 137 countries, UNHCR provides essential assistance such as shelter, food, water, healthcare, and education to displaced populations. By joining UNHCR, staff contribute to meaningful humanitarian impact, ensuring the safety, dignity, and rights of vulnerable communities. The organization also offers staff opportunities for professional growth, cross-cultural collaboration, and international career development.

Job Description
UNHCR is seeking a Senior Building Services Assistant for its operations in Melkadida, Ethiopia. The role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth management and maintenance of office and field facilities. The incumbent will supervise and coordinate building services activities, manage relationships with third-party service providers, and support both routine and non-routine operational tasks.

The Senior Building Services Assistant will monitor and ensure compliance of contracted service providers with agreed terms of reference, recommend corrective actions, and support continuous improvement initiatives for better management of the Building Management Unit. The position also involves overseeing transportation, vehicle management, warehouse operations, procurement processes, and event preparation at UNHCR premises.

This role contributes directly to operational efficiency, creating a safe and functional environment for staff and ensuring uninterrupted service delivery to the communities UNHCR serves. The incumbent will plan, execute, and monitor maintenance schedules, organize resources, and provide guidance to junior staff.

The Senior Building Services Assistant will assist with warehouse management, including receiving, storing, and tracking materials and equipment, preparing shipments, verifying invoices, and maintaining accurate ERP system records. Additionally, the position ensures timely issuance of requisitions, purchase orders, and receipts for goods and services delivered.

This role emphasizes risk awareness and proactive management, requiring the identification of operational risks, reporting issues, and participating in planning and mitigation measures to maintain organizational effectiveness.

The position provides substantial opportunities for professional development, including exposure to UNHCR’s operational systems, supply chain and financial management processes, and leadership experience in supervising staff and coordinating multi-faceted tasks.

Candidates will work closely with supervisors, colleagues, contractors, and suppliers to enhance service delivery, operational efficiency, and safety. They will also contribute to the development and implementation of best practices in facility management.

UNHCR encourages women and underrepresented groups to apply. The organization is committed to a safe, inclusive, and respectful work environment, free from discrimination, harassment, and abuse of power. Staff are expected to embody the UNHCR core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Qualification

• High School Diploma with at least two years of relevant experience, or
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with at least one year of relevant experience.
• A valid driving license is required.

Work Experience

• Experience in support services including building maintenance, logistics, procurement, and financial management.
• Familiarity with ERP systems for supply chain and financial management.
• Experience in supervising staff and managing service providers.
• Knowledge of local vendors, suppliers, and building management practices is highly desirable.

Required Skills and Competencies

• IT and computer literacy
• Supply chain management using PeopleSoft
• UN/UNHCR procurement rules and procedures
• Financial management in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, PeopleSoft, Workday, etc.)
• Ability to manage and coordinate maintenance and operational activities efficiently
• Strong organizational, planning, and risk management skills
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities
• Commitment to safety, compliance, and continuous improvement

Job Location
Melkadida, Ethiopia

Employment Type and Salary
Full-time position. Salary and benefits follow UNHCR standard scales for field staff.

How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the UNHCR online recruitment platform. CVs or applications sent via email or other methods will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Scanned certificates or attachments are not required.

The application deadline is March 15, 2026.

This role offers the opportunity to significantly impact UNHCR operations while developing technical, operational, and leadership skills. The Senior Building Services Assistant will play a central role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports life-saving humanitarian services.

Candidates will gain hands-on experience in coordinating complex operations, managing multiple service providers, and ensuring compliance with international standards. The position is ideal for those seeking professional growth in facility management, procurement, and operational leadership.

By joining UNHCR, the incumbent contributes to a mission-driven organization that values integrity, diversity, and operational excellence. Staff members are supported through mentorship, training, and opportunities for career advancement.

The role encourages proactive problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation in managing operational challenges, ensuring the safety and efficiency of organizational facilities.

UNHCR promotes an inclusive and equitable workplace. Women and underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply to help strengthen the diversity of the workforce and foster a culture of inclusion.

Through this position, the incumbent will support UNHCR’s objectives by maintaining operational readiness, optimizing resources, and ensuring that facilities are safe, functional, and responsive to the needs of staff and operations.

Candidates will have the opportunity to build skills in ERP systems, supply chain management, financial tracking, procurement, and staff supervision, enhancing their professional profile for future leadership roles.

The Senior Building Services Assistant will also participate in continuous improvement initiatives, helping to implement more effective operational processes and enhance organizational performance.

Joining UNHCR provides a meaningful career path where staff contribute to global humanitarian efforts while developing technical expertise, leadership skills, and cross-cultural experience in a highly respected international organization.

Applications are encouraged from all qualified candidates, with an emphasis on fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. This role represents a significant opportunity to advance both personal and professional growth while making a tangible difference in the lives of displaced and vulnerable populations.

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