About the Organization
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a strategic regional pillar established to support member states in their efforts to achieve economic transformation and sustainable development. As a vital arm of the United Nations, the ECA serves as a center of excellence for policy research and technical advocacy. Our headquarters in Addis Ababa is a world-class facility that facilitates regional integration and international dialogue. Maintaining the physical integrity and professional appearance of this historic compound is essential to our diplomatic mission.
Operating within the Facilities Management Section (FMS) offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the “UN Common House” initiative, where multiple international agencies share a high-standard operational environment. To work at the ECA is to be part of an elite team of technical professionals dedicated to maintaining the infrastructure that hosts heads of state and global experts. We prioritize a culture of safety, precision, and craftsmanship, ensuring our staff have the resources needed to excel in a multicultural setting.
We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the global community we serve. The United Nations is an equal opportunity employer that provides a stable and supportive workplace where technical proficiency and professional conduct are highly valued. We prioritize the development of our staff and encourage a sense of professional pride in maintaining a landmark that symbolizes international cooperation and progress.
In line with our commitment to gender equity and social inclusion, we strongly encourage women and members of underrepresented groups to apply for this technical role. The UN is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment in the skilled trades and recognizes that diverse perspectives are essential for maintaining a resilient and modern infrastructure. We believe in providing a workplace where all technical staff can thrive and contribute to the maintenance of Africa’s premier diplomatic site.
The ECA fosters a merit-based environment where craftsmanship and attention to detail are rewarded. Working here provides technical professionals with the chance to engage in large-scale maintenance projects that meet international quality standards. By joining our team, you become a guardian of the United Nations’ physical heritage, ensuring the compound remains a safe and welcoming environment for the international community.
Job Description
The role of the Maintenance Worker – Civil Works (G3) is a specialized technical position responsible for the structural integrity and aesthetic maintenance of the ECA headquarters. This role is strategically vital as it ensures that the physical infrastructure—from offices to public corridors—remains functional and safe for thousands of international civil servants. Your work in structural repair and surface finishing directly impacts the professional image and operational longevity of the United Nations compound.
The strategic impact of this role is felt in the timely execution of building repairs and infrastructure improvements. As a civil works specialist, you are responsible for maintaining the compound’s masonry, floorings, and finishing, ensuring that all repairs are of the best quality. Your role in applying waterproofing and maintaining external structural elements protects the UN’s high-value assets from environmental degradation, supporting the long-term sustainability of the headquarters.
A day in the life of a Civil Works Maintenance Worker at the ECA involves a dynamic range of skilled tasks, including plastering, constructing retaining walls, and performing concrete works for stairs and manholes. You will be responsible for the professional installation of ceramic tiles, floor mats, and the repair of interior fixtures like Venetian blinds. This role offers the opportunity to apply diverse construction skills in a high-profile environment where technical precision is a requirement.
Furthermore, this position carries the responsibility of maintaining the visual order of the compound through professional painting of offices, toilets, and traffic markings. Working under the supervision of the Civil Works Supervisor, you will provide essential support for larger construction projects and emergency repairs. This role provides an unparalleled platform to master international facility maintenance standards while contributing to the operational excellence of the commission.
The long-term impact of your work is the institutionalization of rigorous maintenance protocols that ensure a safe and efficient workplace. By delivering high-quality masonry and finishing work, you help prevent structural deterioration and maintain a world-class facility. This role provides an excellent opportunity to grow as a technical specialist within an international framework, contributing to the professional management of the United Nations’ presence in Ethiopia.
Educational Qualification
High school completion is required. Candidates with vocational training or specialized certifications in masonry, painting, or general construction are highly preferred.
Work Experience
Minimum of three (3) years of progressive work experience as a civil maintenance worker or in a general construction environment is required. Proven experience in masonry works, tile laying, and professional painting is essential.
Required Skills and Competencies
Proficiency in masonry works including plastering, slab construction, and concrete repairs.
Skilled in laying ceramic and plastic tiles and installing floor mats.
Expertise in professional painting techniques for interior offices and outdoor traffic markings.
Ability to apply waterproofing materials to roofs and slabs according to technical specifications.
Strong physical stamina and the ability to perform manual tasks in a professional office setting.
Excellent teamwork and communication skills with the ability to follow technical instructions in English.
Strong commitment to workplace health and safety standards.
Job Location
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (ECA Compound)
Employment Type and Salary
This position is offered as a consultancy contract with an expected duration of 9 months. It provides an exceptional opportunity to gain international technical experience within the United Nations system, offering a stable and professional work environment in a world-class facility.
Compensation for this role is competitive and aligned with the United Nations G3 level for individual contractors and consultants (CON). The package is designed to attract skilled craftsmen who are committed to high-quality results and structural safety. Beyond financial rewards, the role offers the prestige of working for the UN and the chance to contribute to a globally recognized landmark.
How to Apply
In alignment with our streamlined recruitment procedures, candidates are NOT required to provide scanned certificates or physical attachments during the initial application stage. We encourage you to focus on accurately reflecting your masonry, construction, and painting experience within your application profile.
Verification of original academic and technical certifications will only be requested for candidates who advance to the interview and practical assessment stage. This approach ensures a fair and efficient screening process based on the merits of the applicant’s craftsmanship and professional background.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. We are seeking a dedicated professional who can maintain our buildings and infrastructure to the highest standards of quality and safety.
The selection process will involve a thorough review of technical expertise and potentially a practical assessment of civil works skills. We aim to identify a reliable technician capable of performing diverse maintenance tasks while following strict UN safety protocols.
Interested candidates must submit their application through the official UN Careers portal (Inspira) using the Job Opening ID provided below.
Application Deadline
April 21, 2026
Official Application Link / Contact