Finance and Accounting Associate

Finance and Accounting Associate

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

July 22, 2025September 5, 2025BudapestHungary
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195
  • Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to helping those in need. The organization is committed to promoting international protection and finding durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Finance and Accounting Associate plays a crucial role in processing financial transactions and providing technical support to various field offices, regional bureaux, and headquarters divisions. This position requires the incumbent to maintain compliance with financial rules and regulations while ensuring accurate financial record-keeping. The role involves frequent communication with staff at different levels and may include supervising less senior team members. The Finance and Accounting Associate's responsibilities may vary based on specific areas of focus, such as General Ledger, Accounts Payable, and Accounts Receivable and Donor Reporting. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the overall financial management of the organization, ensuring that all financial transactions are processed accurately and in accordance with UNHCR policies. The position also requires the ability to prepare financial reports, conduct audits, and liaise with various stakeholders to ensure effective financial operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance and Accounting Associate will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: processing assigned financial transactions and maintaining accurate financial records; providing technical support to field offices and regional bureaux; monitoring compliance with financial rules and regulations; escalating any breaches in internal controls; preparing ad-hoc and recurring financial reports; liaising with relevant counterparts to verify data on accounts; carrying out month-end and year-end closing activities; gathering information for audits; identifying process improvements; participating in the testing of new systems; drafting and updating standard operating procedures; guiding and supporting junior team members; and managing risks associated with financial operations. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include experience with ERP financial modules such as PeopleSoft, Oracle, or SAP, as well as knowledge of financial accrual accounting standards like IPSAS or IFRS. Strong computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office productivity software are also required. Candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of UNHCR financial rules and regulations, as well as the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a completed and relevant minimum first-level university degree (equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree or higher). Candidates with certifications in Accounting, Business Administration, or Finance are highly desirable. The educational qualifications will be considered in conjunction with the required years of work experience, with priority given to applicants who meet the full requirements.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in finance and accounting roles. Experience with ERP financial modules is essential, and familiarity with UNHCR financial rules and regulations is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of preparing financial reports, conducting audits, and managing financial transactions in a complex organizational environment. Experience in system implementation and organizational change management initiatives is an advantage.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, and candidates should also be familiar with the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language of the duty station is required. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset, particularly for roles that involve international collaboration.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a General Service role at the GS6 level and is temporary in nature, with a target start date of July 28, 2025, and an end date of December 31, 202
  • Candidates must be legally present in Hungary at the time of application, recruitment, and hire. The salary range for this position is NET 806,457 HUF to NET 944,644 HUF, and a competitive compensation and benefits package is offered, including annual leave accrual, participation in the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund, and health insurance coverage. Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete a test as part of the selection process, and late applications will not be accepted. UNHCR is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital status, race, or other characteristics.
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