About the Organization
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to protecting and assisting people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters. Operating in 137 countries with over 18,800 staff members, UNHCR provides life-saving aid, including shelter, food, water, and healthcare, while advocating for the rights and dignity of displaced populations.
Working at UNHCR offers an opportunity to develop professionally in a dynamic humanitarian context while contributing to meaningful change. Staff gain hands-on experience in diverse operational settings and are supported to grow both technically and professionally. UNHCR values diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, actively encouraging applications from women and underrepresented groups.
Job Description
The Electrician LICA 4 will be responsible for maintaining, repairing, overhauling, and rebuilding diesel generators and other electrical systems at UNHCR facilities in Melkadida, Ethiopia. This role ensures that all electrical installations are safe, reliable, and compliant with local and international standards.
Key responsibilities include:
- Ensuring all new electrical installations in offices and guesthouses meet required safety and performance standards.
- Identifying and correcting any improperly installed or existing electrical systems.
- Maintaining electrical installations to prevent hazards to staff or equipment.
- Supervising maintenance activities carried out by external contractors on generators and electrical systems.
- Performing basic generator maintenance, including checking oil, fuel, and coolant levels.
- Identifying obsolete or unsafe equipment and recommending replacements.
- Preparing a list of spare parts required for routine maintenance.
- Advising on procurement of high-quality electrical materials and overseeing contractor work.
- Enforcing adherence to local and international electrical safety standards.
- Conducting physical inventory checks and ensuring equipment reliability.
- Supporting risk management and escalation processes for electrical and operational risks.
- Performing other duties as required by supervisors to ensure safe and efficient operations.
This role is essential to the continuous operation of UNHCR facilities and directly supports the organization’s mission of providing humanitarian assistance.
Educational Qualification
- High School Diploma with at least 1 year of relevant electrical experience, or
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
Essential certifications include Electrical Studies, Electricity, and Electronics/Electro-Mechanics. UN experience is considered desirable.
Work Experience
- Essential: Practical experience in electrical equipment installation, maintenance, and repair.
- Desirable: Experience working in UN or humanitarian operational contexts.
Required Skills and Competencies
- Proficiency in electrical equipment installation and maintenance.
- Ability to inspect, troubleshoot, and repair electrical and generator systems.
- Knowledge of safety regulations and compliance standards for electrical installations.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to supervise, train colleagues, and coordinate with contractors.
- Good communication skills in English and local UN working languages.
- Commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and harassment-free workplace.
Job Location
Melkadida, Ethiopia
Employment Type and Salary
This is a full-time, residential, non-family position under UNOPS LICA 4. The salary is in line with UNHCR’s LICA 4 grade scale and organizational policies. The role involves living and working in a high-hardship environment, providing a unique opportunity for professional growth and operational experience.
Professional Growth and Career Impact
This position offers hands-on experience with electrical systems in a challenging field environment. Candidates will develop technical expertise, leadership skills through supervising colleagues and contractors, and gain exposure to UN operational procedures. The role allows individuals to contribute directly to humanitarian assistance while enhancing their career trajectory within international organizations.
Diversity and Inclusion
UNHCR is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce. Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. The organization ensures fair treatment and equal opportunities for all candidates, promoting a culture where everyone can thrive.
Application Process
- Applications are only accepted via the UNHCR online recruitment platform.
- No scanned certificates or additional attachments are required at the application stage.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- UNHCR does not charge any fee for the recruitment process; beware of fraudulent offers.
Deadline for Applications
March 15, 2026
Summary
Joining UNHCR as an Electrician LICA 4 in Melkadida, Ethiopia, provides an opportunity to make a direct impact on humanitarian operations while advancing your technical and professional skills. The role involves ensuring safe and reliable electrical systems, supervising maintenance, and supporting UNHCR’s critical mission to protect displaced populations. Candidates will gain operational experience, leadership development, and the satisfaction of contributing to global humanitarian work in a challenging and rewarding environment.