United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) About
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions from UN Member States. UNRWA also receives some funding from the Regular Budget of the United Nations, which is used mostly for international staffing costs. The Agency’s services encompass education, health care, relief and social services, camp infrastructure and improvement, microfinance and emergency assistance, including in times of armed conflict.
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 194
  • Its primary mission is to provide assistance and protection to approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees. UNRWA operates in five areas: Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip, focusing on helping these refugees achieve their full potential in human development while awaiting a just resolution to their plight. The agency is the largest UN operation in the Middle East, employing over 30,000 staff members and is funded almost entirely through voluntary contributions from UN member states, regional bodies, business foundations, and individual donors. UNRWA is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of one of the most vulnerable communities in the world, and it welcomes applications from individuals who share this commitment.

Job Overview:
The Administrative Officer position at UNRWA involves a multifaceted role that encompasses human resources management, administrative oversight, and financial accountability. The incumbent will be responsible for coordinating various administrative processes, including managing personnel records, overseeing recruitment processes, and ensuring compliance with human resource policies. Additionally, the role requires managing the operational budget and project budget estimates, monitoring expenditures, and preparing financial reports. The Administrative Officer will also handle procurement activities, maintain inventory records, and ensure the efficient functioning of the department. This position demands strong leadership skills, as the incumbent will supervise a team of administrative and general services staff, guiding them in task management, training, and performance evaluation. The role is critical in ensuring that the agency's operations run smoothly and effectively, contributing to the overall mission of UNRWA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Administrative Officer include:
  • Coordinating human resources and administrative management processes, including staff management, personnel records, and attendance records.
  • Processing requests for employment and payment of daily paid staff, and coordinating recruitment processes with the Human Resources Office.
  • Ensuring compliance with human resource policies and facilitating onboarding and separation processes for staff members.
  • Managing the office operational budget and assigned project budget estimates, monitoring expenditures, and preparing financial reports.
  • Overseeing procurement activities, including tendering and purchasing orders, and maintaining inventory records.
  • Conducting regular inspections of physical facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards and identifying maintenance needs.
  • Compiling and analyzing statistical data related to departmental activities and preparing operational reports.
  • Organizing meetings, workshops, and events as required.
  • Leading and supervising a team of administrative and general services assistants, providing guidance and ensuring efficient completion of responsibilities. 1
  • Establishing guarding schedules to secure the safety of the Agency’s premises. 1
  • Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first university degree from an accredited educational institution in business administration, finance, procurement, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have at least three years of experience in administrative work, human resources, and/or office management. It is also required that candidates specify their current location and any outside activities they are involved in, as this information is crucial for the application process. Misrepresentation of information can lead to disqualification or termination if hired.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first university degree from an accredited institution in fields such as business administration, finance, procurement, or a related area. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of administrative and financial management within the context of UNRWA's operations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in administrative work, human resources, and/or office management. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage various administrative functions effectively and to lead a team in a dynamic work environment. Candidates should also be currently residing in the duty station, which is Amman, Jordan, and must indicate their current involvement in any outside activities that could influence their duties with UNRWA.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is required, with a minimum level of proficiency at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages. Knowledge of French is considered an asset, but not mandatory. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is crucial for collaboration within the UN system and for engaging with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Amman, Jordan, and is classified as an Area Staff post. Candidates must be residing in Jordan and within commuting distance of the duty station at the time of application. The Agency will not provide relocation costs or support for work permits. Other benefits include a monthly Provident Fund contribution, compulsory medical insurance, 30 days of annual leave, and additional leave for maternity and paternity. UNRWA encourages applications from qualified candidates with disabilities and is committed to achieving gender parity in its workforce. The recruitment process may involve a technical test and competency-based interviews, and a roster may be created for future vacancies. Applications must be submitted through UNRWA's online e-recruitment system, and only fully completed applications will be considered.
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