Finance Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, established to support the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects globally. UNOPS aims to enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of these projects by providing essential services. With over 20 years of experience in Afghanistan, UNOPS Afghanistan focuses on delivering projects and services that improve the lives of the Afghan people. The organization operates in various sectors, including humanitarian aid, infrastructure, and human resources, with a mission to exceed stakeholder expectations in service delivery.

Job Overview:
The Finance Assistant position is crucial for supporting the financial services of UNOPS, ensuring high quality, accuracy, and consistency in financial operations. Under the guidance of the Finance Senior Officer (International), the Finance Assistant will implement operational strategies and procedures, provide financial and administrative support, and facilitate knowledge sharing within the finance team. This role requires a client-oriented approach and adherence to UNOPS rules and regulations, contributing to the overall effectiveness of financial resource management within the organization. The Finance Assistant will be involved in various tasks, including processing financial documentation, maintaining management information systems, and ensuring compliance with policies and guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Assistant will be responsible for the following duties:

• Implement operational strategies and procedures, ensuring full compliance with verification processes and records according to UNOPS and donor policies.
• Provide financial and administrative support, including: a. Controlling supporting documents for payments and pending liabilities; b. Executing payments; c. Reviewing and processing financial documentation such as claims and invoices; d. Maintaining accurate records in the management information system; e. Providing information for reports on financial status and discrepancies; f. Following up with relevant parties for information; g. Assisting in the preparation of correspondence and reports; h. Extracting, inputting, copying, and filing data; i. Maintaining a proper filing system for records and documents.
• Facilitate knowledge building and sharing by participating in finance-focused training and contributing to knowledge networks and communities of practice. The impact of these results is significant, as they enhance UNOPS's capability to manage financial resources effectively and efficiently.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications:

• Completion of secondary school or equivalent; specialized training in finance is desirable.
• Relevant work experience of 2 to 3 years in accounting and finance at the national level is required.
• Proficiency in using computers and office software packages, particularly MS Office and database management systems.
• Experience with web-based management systems is an advantage.
• A client-oriented approach and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed secondary education or its equivalent. Specialized training in finance is considered an asset, as it provides foundational knowledge and skills necessary for the role.

Experience:
The Finance Assistant should possess 2 to 3 years of relevant experience in accounting and financial management at the national level. This experience should include familiarity with financial documentation, reporting processes, and the use of financial management software. The candidate should also demonstrate the ability to work effectively in a team and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the local language of the duty station, which is Dari or Pashto. Knowledge of a second UN working language is desirable, as it enhances communication and collaboration within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) at the Local ICA-4 level. The contract duration is ongoing and open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. This position is based in Kabul, Afghanistan, and may involve working in a challenging environment. Candidates should be prepared for the unique circumstances of working in Afghanistan and demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in their approach.