About the Organization
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that provides assistance, protection, and durable solutions to refugees and internally displaced people worldwide. NRC operates in challenging environments, focusing on delivering high-quality services that improve the lives of vulnerable communities. The organization promotes transparency, accountability, and professional development for its staff, creating opportunities for growth while making a meaningful impact. Working with NRC means contributing to a mission that directly affects people’s lives while gaining experience in international standards of humanitarian operations.
Job Description
The Finance Assistant plays a critical role in supporting the day-to-day financial operations of NRC programs. The position is designed to provide hands-on experience in accounting and finance functions within a dynamic humanitarian environment. This role involves assisting with financial processes, ensuring compliance with organizational policies, and supporting project staff in managing financial matters. By joining NRC, Finance Assistants will gain exposure to complex financial systems, institutional donor requirements, and contribute to effective resource management that benefits vulnerable communities.
Key Responsibilities
- Adhere to NRC policies, tools, handbooks, and guidelines to maintain compliance and transparency.
- Assist with the implementation of the support function portfolio according to action plans.
- Prepare and develop status reports for management review.
- Ensure proper filing of financial documents according to NRC standards and Securing Supporting Documents (SSD) policy.
- Promote ideas for improvement within the support function to enhance efficiency and accountability.
- Support project staff with financial guidance and clarifications.
- Check supplier invoices and supporting documents to ensure they meet NRC standards before payment and guarantee timely settlements.
- Assist in the month-end accounting closing process, ensuring the ledger’s accuracy and completeness.
- Copy, scan, and file all financial documents and submit originals to the country office monthly.
- Assist in preparing monthly financial reports and ensuring timely submission to the country office.
- Monitor and ensure the accuracy of cash in bank and cash boxes.
- Ensure timely settlement of all taxes and other government payments.
- Manage petty cash and cheque payments, assisting with preparation of payment vouchers and timely settlement of invoices.
- Support the Finance Coordinator in performing cash and bank reconciliations.
- Assist with payments for labor or other activities in camps or communities as required.
- Maintain open and transparent communication with staff and management for all financial clarifications.
Educational Qualification
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field.
- Relevant educational background that supports practical financial operations in complex environments.
Work Experience
- Minimum of one year of experience in a related field, preferably in finance or accounting.
- Experience working in complex or volatile contexts is an advantage.
- Familiarity with large institutional donors and their reporting requirements is desirable.
- Documented results demonstrating ability to handle financial responsibilities efficiently.
Required Skills and Competencies
- Professional skills in accounting, bookkeeping, and financial reporting.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work under pressure, independently, and with limited supervision.
- Goal-oriented with a focus on achieving results.
- Proficiency in English, both written and verbal.
- Knowledge of local languages is an advantage.
- Behavioral competencies include handling insecure environments, planning and delivering results, empowering and building trust, communicating effectively, and strong analytical skills.
Job Location
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Employment Type and Salary
Full-time position with on-the-job training provided. NRC offers a supportive work environment that encourages professional growth and development. Employees gain exposure to international financial standards, humanitarian finance management, and opportunities for career advancement within the organization.
Professional Growth Opportunities
This role provides hands-on experience in financial management within a humanitarian organization. Staff members gain exposure to project budgeting, reporting to institutional donors, and compliance with international finance policies. The position is ideal for individuals aiming to build a career in accounting, finance, or humanitarian operations while contributing meaningfully to communities in need.
Encouragement for Diversity and Inclusion
Female candidates and individuals from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. NRC is committed to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion across its workforce, offering a supportive environment for all employees.
Impact of the Role
The Finance Assistant ensures that financial resources are managed efficiently and transparently, directly contributing to the organization’s ability to provide timely assistance to vulnerable populations. The role helps maintain accountability and supports the integrity of NRC’s operations, enabling the organization to continue delivering high-quality humanitarian services.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit an application letter and an updated curriculum vitae with day-time telephone numbers and contact details of three work-related referees. Applications should be sent through NRC Careers. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Scanned certificates or attachments are not required.
Deadline to Apply
Applications must reach NRC no later than March 13th, 2026 at 5:00 PM.
Summary
Joining NRC as a Finance Assistant provides a unique opportunity to develop professional skills, gain exposure to international finance operations, and contribute meaningfully to humanitarian projects. The position is ideal for candidates seeking growth, professional development, and the chance to make a real-world impact. Women and underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This is an excellent entry point for a career in humanitarian finance and organizational support.
Career Development and Mentorship
The Finance Assistant role offers mentorship from experienced finance professionals within NRC, exposure to structured financial systems, and guidance on developing expertise in institutional finance management. This experience equips staff with skills that are transferable across the humanitarian and development sectors.
Organizational Support and Learning
NRC provides on-the-job training, enabling new staff to learn organizational policies, financial tools, and donor compliance requirements. The Finance Assistant will work alongside experienced staff, gaining knowledge in process improvements and best practices in financial management.
Contribution to Community Wellbeing
By ensuring accurate and timely financial processes, the Finance Assistant directly supports the delivery of humanitarian aid. Efficient financial management ensures that resources reach those in need, supporting NRC’s mission to improve the lives of displaced populations and vulnerable communities.
Long-Term Opportunities
The role opens pathways for progression within NRC, including advanced finance positions, project management roles, and regional finance responsibilities. Staff who demonstrate strong performance can access professional development programs and training opportunities offered by NRC.
Inclusive Work Culture
NRC promotes a culture of inclusion, respect, and collaboration. Employees are encouraged to share ideas for process improvement and contribute to the organizational mission, making it an engaging and rewarding workplace.
Key Takeaways
- Hands-on finance experience in a humanitarian context.
- Opportunity to work with large institutional donors and complex projects.
- Exposure to international standards and financial compliance.
- Supportive environment for career growth and mentorship.
- Encouragement for women and underrepresented groups to apply.
- Application deadline: March 13th, 2026.
This position is ideal for candidates seeking to develop expertise in finance while making a positive social impact.