About the Organization
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a cornerstone of international cooperation, dedicated to driving economic growth and social progress throughout the African continent. Established as one of the UN’s five regional commissions, the ECA plays a dual role as a regional arm of the United Nations and as a key component of the African institutional landscape. Our mission is to provide high-level policy advice, strengthen the capacity of member states, and foster regional integration to build a more prosperous and sustainable future for all Africans.
Headquartered at the iconic Africa Hall in Addis Ababa, the ECA operates within a sprawling compound that serves as the central hub for UN activities in the region. Maintaining a world-class environment is essential to the success of our diplomatic and developmental mission. The physical appearance and hygiene of our facilities reflect the United Nations’ commitment to excellence, professionalism, and respect for the dignitaries and experts who visit our premises daily.
Working within the Facilities Management Section (FMS) means being part of a team that ensures the UN compound remains a safe, welcoming, and highly functional space. We believe that every individual, regardless of their role, is a vital contributor to our collective impact. The ECA provides a stable, structured, and multicultural environment where international standards are the norm and professional conduct is highly valued.
Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our identity. We are committed to creating a workplace that celebrates different perspectives and provides equal opportunities for all. The United Nations is an environment where every staff member is treated with dignity, and we take great pride in maintaining an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation.
In our pursuit of gender equality, we strongly encourage women to apply for this position. The ECA is dedicated to providing an inclusive workspace where women are empowered to contribute to the maintenance and operational success of our headquarters. We believe that a diverse maintenance team is essential for upholding the high standards of cleanliness and service that the United Nations represents.
Job Description and Strategic Impact
The role of the Cleaner (G2) within the Facilities Management Section is a critical function that directly impacts the health, safety, and professional image of the United Nations. This position is far more than a maintenance role; it is about creating a sanitized and orderly environment that allows international civil servants and delegates to focus on solving the world’s most pressing issues. The standard of cleanliness maintained at the ECA is a direct reflection of our organizational values.
Strategically, this role supports the “UN Common House” initiative, where multiple agencies share resources and space. Ensuring that restrooms, public areas, and offices are kept to the highest hygiene standards is essential for the collective well-being of the UN community in Addis Ababa. Beyond cleaning, the incumbent serves as an essential observer on the ground, reporting technical defects and security issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.
A day in the life of an IC Cleaning Staff member involves a variety of specialized tasks, from waste management and furniture care to the operation of industrial cleaning machinery. You will work as part of a coordinated team, rotating through different zones of the compound to ensure every corner of the ECA meets UN standards. Your role also involves assisting skilled tradesmen in preparing surfaces for painting and ensuring worksites are clear and safe.
The strategic importance of this role is highlighted during high-level international conferences and summits hosted at the ECA. During these times, the cleanliness and presentation of the decorated areas and public spaces are of paramount importance to the prestige of the institution. Your attention to detail ensures that the Africa Hall and surrounding buildings remain a source of pride for the continent.
Career development within the Facilities Management Section is fostered through on-the-job training and exposure to international facility standards. By performing these duties with diligence and professionalism, you contribute to the overall efficiency of the United Nations. The ECA values the dedication of its cleaning staff and recognizes them as the first line of defense in maintaining a healthy and professional working environment.
Job Positions and Requirements
Cleaner (G2)
Educational Qualification: High school completion is required.
Work Experience: Proven skill in professional cleaning and housekeeping is required. Experience in using industrial cleaning or road-cleaning machinery is a significant advantage.
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 excellent entry point into the United Nations system, offering a professional and secure work environment within a premier international organization.
Compensation is competitive and follows the UN scale for G2-level individual contractors and consultants. This package is designed to reward reliability and excellence in service. Working at the ECA also provides the unique experience of being part of a global mission, where your work is respected and contributes to the smooth functioning of international diplomacy.
The UN provides a merit-based environment where consistency and hard work are recognized. This contract provides stable employment for the 9-month period, with the possibility of being part of a team that manages one of the most important diplomatic sites in East Africa.
How to Apply
In accordance with UN recruitment policies, scanned certificates or academic attachments are NOT required during the initial application phase. Applicants should focus on clearly stating their relevant cleaning and housekeeping experience in the application form.
Verification of original academic documents and any relevant technical certifications will only be required for candidates who are invited for the final interview and assessment stage. This ensures a transparent and streamlined selection process for all applicants.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation. The United Nations does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process. We are looking for dedicated individuals who take pride in their work and are ready to uphold the standards of the Economic Commission for Africa.
The selection process may include a practical assessment to verify cleaning and machinery-handling skills. We aim to identify a reliable professional who can work effectively within a team and follow the direct supervision of our FMS supervisors.
Interested candidates must apply through the official UN recruitment portal (Inspira) using the Job Opening ID provided below.
Application Deadline
April 21, 2026