About the Organization
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) stands as one of the most vital regional institutions dedicated to promoting economic and social development across the African continent. Established by the Economic Social Council of the United Nations, the ECA serves as a strategic hub for policy analysis, advocacy, and technical cooperation. By fostering regional integration and supporting member states in achieving sustainable growth, the institution plays a transformative role in shaping Africa’s future and its position within the global economy.
Operating from its historic headquarters in Addis Ababa, the ECA provides a professional environment defined by international standards, multicultural collaboration, and a deep sense of purpose. The maintenance and preservation of its infrastructure are critical to ensuring that the mission of the UN can proceed without interruption. As the facility expands to serve as a “UN Common House” for multiple agencies, the physical integrity of the compound has become a symbol of unity and efficiency in international diplomacy.
The organization is committed to excellence in every facet of its operations, including the technical and manual services that keep the headquarters running. We believe that every team member, from policy experts to maintenance professionals, contributes significantly to the UN’s global impact. Working at the ECA offers the unique opportunity to be part of a prestigious international community where professional conduct and high-quality craftsmanship are consistently recognized and valued.
We are dedicated to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the global community we serve. The United Nations is an equal opportunity employer that fosters an inclusive environment where individuals from all backgrounds are treated with dignity and respect. We prioritize the development of our staff, providing a stable and supportive workplace that encourages long-term professional pride and service excellence.
In line with our commitment to diversity and equity, we strongly encourage women and members of underrepresented groups to apply for this technical role. The UN recognizes that technical and engineering fields benefit immensely from diverse perspectives, and we are dedicated to breaking barriers for women in skilled trades. We believe in providing an environment where all technical staff can thrive and contribute to the maintenance of our shared international heritage.
Job Description and Strategic Impact
The role of the Maintenance Worker for Civil Works (G4) is foundational to the operational continuity of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. This position is not merely about physical repairs; it is about ensuring that the environment where international leaders and experts meet remains safe, functional, and representative of the UN’s high standards. By maintaining the buildings and infrastructure, the incumbent ensures that the strategic work of the commission can continue in a high-quality, professional setting.
As part of the Facilities Management Section, the Maintenance Worker plays a proactive role in the “UN Common House” initiative. This role is strategically significant as the ECA expands its services to accommodate various UN agencies within a single compound. The quality of masonry, painting, and structural repair performed directly affects the efficiency of these agencies and the safety of thousands of personnel working within the Addis Ababa headquarters.
A day in the life of a Maintenance Worker at the ECA involves a dynamic range of technical tasks and leadership responsibilities. You will be responsible for executing complex masonry projects, supervising daily laborers, and ensuring that construction materials are managed with absolute precision. This role offers the opportunity to apply skilled craftsmanship across various disciplines, from waterproofing and floor laying to structural concrete work, ensuring that no two days are the same.
The strategic impact of this position is felt in the longevity of the institution’s physical assets. Through timely intervention and high-quality repairs, you will help prevent the deterioration of historic and modern office structures. This work requires a high degree of accountability, as you will be delegating tasks to junior staff and ensuring that every project is completed with the best possible quality and within strict UN safety protocols.
Career development within the UN system for technical staff is built on a foundation of performance and reliability. By excelling in this role, you demonstrate the leadership and technical competence required for higher-level facility management responsibilities. The ECA provides an environment where manual skills are respected and where professionals are encouraged to take ownership of their work, contributing to the overall excellence of the United Nations’ physical presence in Africa.
Job Positions and Requirements
Maintenance Worker – Civil Works (G4)
Educational Qualification: High School completion is required. Specialized skills in civil works and construction are essential.
Work Experience: Demonstrated experience in masonry, painting, tiling, and general building maintenance. Experience in supervising junior technical staff or daily laborers is highly valued.
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 a unique opportunity to gain experience within the United Nations system, offering a stable and professional work environment in a world-class facility. The role is designed for individuals who take pride in their technical skills and are looking to apply them in an international context.
Compensation for this role is competitive and aligned with the United Nations G4 level for consultants and individual contractors. The package is designed to attract skilled tradespeople who are committed to delivering high-quality results. Beyond the financial compensation, the role offers the prestige of working for the UN and the chance to work alongside a team of dedicated professionals in the heart of Addis Ababa.
The UN provides a merit-based environment where technical proficiency and leadership are rewarded. This 9-month engagement serves as a significant professional milestone, providing the incumbent with international organizational experience that is highly regarded across the global labor market. We ensure that our technical staff have the tools and materials necessary to perform their duties to the highest possible standard.
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 technical skills and experience through the official UN recruitment portal.
Original certificates and technical qualifications will only be requested for verification purposes if a candidate is invited for a physical interview and trade test. This approach ensures a fair and efficient screening process based on the merits of the applicant’s professional background.
Please note that the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Only candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted for further assessment and interviews. We appreciate the interest of all applicants and value the diversity of skills brought to our facilities management team.
The recruitment process involves a thorough review of technical capabilities and a potential interview to assess supervisory skills. We aim to find a dedicated professional who can uphold the standards of the ECA and contribute to the successful management of the UN Agencies Building and the wider compound.
Interested candidates must submit their application through the official UN Job Opening portal using the link provided below. Ensure your profile is complete and accurately reflects your construction and civil works expertise.
Application Deadline
April 21, 2026