About the Organization
UNHCR, the United Nations Refugee Agency, leads international efforts to protect and assist people forced to flee wars, persecution, and disasters. With operations in 137 countries and a workforce of over 18,800 professionals, UNHCR provides life-saving support including shelter, food, water, and medical care.
Working with UNHCR offers a unique career path where technical skills intersect with humanitarian impact. Staff gain exposure to operational logistics, electrical maintenance, safety protocols, and emergency preparedness while contributing directly to the welfare of displaced communities. UNHCR actively encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups to strengthen workforce diversity and inclusion.
Job Description
The Electrician is responsible for the maintenance, repair, overhaul, and rebuilding of diesel generators and other electrical equipment within UNHCR premises in Gambella, Ethiopia. The role ensures adherence to safety standards for electrical systems, air-conditioning, refrigeration installations, power tools, and other electrical appliances.
Key duties include:
- Installing new electrical systems in office and guesthouse premises according to safety and performance standards.
- Inspecting existing electrical installations, identifying issues, and implementing remedial actions.
- Creating and following maintenance schedules for all electrical systems.
- Maintaining all electrical installations to prevent hazards to staff and equipment.
- Supervising maintenance activities on power generators conducted by external contractors.
- Performing basic maintenance on generators, including checking oil levels, fueling, and adding coolant or water.
- Identifying obsolete or unsafe equipment and recommending replacements.
- Preparing lists of required spare parts and assisting in purchasing high-quality electrical materials.
- Ensuring compliance with local and international electrical standards for all installations and maintenance.
- Conducting physical inventory checks of electrical equipment and systems.
- Inspecting, testing, calibrating, and updating generator systems to improve reliability and safety.
- Preparing reports, labor estimates, and materials needed for repairs.
- Training colleagues in preventive maintenance and repair practices.
- Supporting risk identification and management, raising issues to supervisors, and performing other related duties.
This position plays a critical role in maintaining safe, reliable, and efficient electrical systems essential for UNHCR’s operations and humanitarian mission.
Educational Qualification
- High School Diploma with 2 years of relevant experience, or
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with 1 year of relevant experience.
Certificates or training in Electrical Studies, Electricity, or Electronics/Electro-Mechanics are required.
Work Experience
- Essential: Practical experience in electrical installation, maintenance, and generator upkeep.
- Desirable: Experience in the power supply sector and exposure to UN operations.
Required Skills and Competencies
- Expertise in electrical equipment installation and maintenance.
- Knowledge of safety standards for electrical and generator systems.
- Ability to inspect, test, and calibrate equipment for optimal performance.
- Experience preparing maintenance reports, estimates, and supervising contractors.
- Strong problem-solving skills and proactive risk management.
- Proficiency in English and the UN working language of the duty station.
- Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful work environment.
Job Location
Gambella, Ethiopia
Employment Type and Salary
This is a full-time, residential, non-family position under UNOPS LICA 5. The role offers a competitive salary aligned with UNHCR’s grading system and provides professional development opportunities in a high-hardship environment.
Professional Growth and Career Impact
The position provides technical and operational growth, including hands-on experience with electrical systems, generators, safety compliance, and maintenance management. Staff gain skills in contractor supervision, risk management, and preventive maintenance while supporting essential UNHCR operations that safeguard the lives and dignity of displaced populations.
Diversity and Inclusion
UNHCR is committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce. Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. UNHCR ensures equal opportunities, promotes safe working conditions, and supports professional growth for all staff.
Application Process
- Applications are accepted exclusively via the UNHCR online recruitment platform.
- Scanned certificates or attachments are not required for initial applications.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- UNHCR does not charge any recruitment fees; beware of fraudulent job offers.
Deadline for Applications
March 15, 2026
Summary
This Electrician role in Gambella offers the chance to develop technical expertise while directly contributing to UNHCR’s humanitarian mission. Responsibilities include installing and maintaining electrical systems, ensuring generator reliability, supervising contractors, and supporting operational safety. Candidates will gain valuable skills in electrical maintenance, preventive measures, and technical problem-solving, all while impacting the efficiency and effectiveness of UNHCR operations in a high-hardship context.