Finance Technical Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) has been operational in Nigeria since 2015, focusing on assisting communities affected by displacement. The organization aims to meet basic needs, improve livelihoods, provide access to essential services, and enhance resilience against future shocks. NRC operates through six core competencies: water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), Shelter, Education, Information-Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA), Livelihoods and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security (LFS), Camp Management, and Protection. With a workforce of 370 staff, NRC has established a presence in key locations including Maiduguri, Yola, and Jos, allowing them to effectively respond to the needs of those affected by conflict across North-East and North Central Nigeria. Their strategic locations facilitate a greater reach and contribute to bridging the gap between humanitarian aid and development cooperation, focusing on equitable access to basic services and strengthening the rights of displaced individuals and returnees. In addition to the main Country Office, NRC has sub-offices in Dikwa, Monguno, Biu, Mubi, Pulka, and Gwoza.

Job Overview:
The Finance Technical Assistant will play a crucial role in the day-to-day implementation of support functions for the NRC Area North office. This position is designed for individuals who are passionate about helping refugees and those forced to flee. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring adherence to NRC policies, tools, handbooks, and guidelines while implementing delegated support function portfolios according to the action plan. The role requires proper filing of documents in both hard and soft formats and promoting ideas for the improvement of support functions. The Finance Technical Assistant will also be responsible for managing cash, ensuring timely payments, and maintaining financial processes in compliance with NRC policies and donor requirements. This position is vital for maintaining the financial integrity of the organization and ensuring that funds are managed effectively and transparently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Technical Assistant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: ensuring that cash is properly managed, overseeing payment processes, and ensuring that all financial transactions adhere to the Financial Handbook and NRC policies. The assistant will maintain daily cash counts, ensure timely posting of transactions, and process payments promptly. They will be responsible for bank transactions in accordance with NRC policies and procedures, including posting income and costs into bank cash boxes on a daily basis. The role also involves acting as the focal point between the Area Office and Field Office regarding funds transfer requests and other payments through banks. The assistant will ensure timely clearance of field office cash boxes, manage payments to contractors as stipulated in contracts, and implement controls to prevent waste, fraud, and mismanagement. Additionally, they will maintain good control of field office bank details and assist with tools used by NRC, as well as scan and archive finance documentation according to SSDi guidelines on a weekly and monthly basis.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess experience working as a Support Function Officer in a humanitarian or recovery context, with documented results related to the responsibilities of the position. Previous experience in complex and volatile contexts is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of financial management principles and practices, as well as the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment. Knowledge of NRC policies and procedures is an advantage.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, ideally in finance, accounting, or a related field. Candidates should have a solid understanding of financial principles and practices, as well as experience with financial management tools and software.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in finance or accounting roles, particularly within humanitarian or development contexts. Experience in managing financial processes and ensuring compliance with organizational policies is crucial.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Nigeria would be considered an asset, as it may facilitate better communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria, with a contract duration of 6 months, which may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. The position is classified at Grade 4 in NRC's grading structure and reports directly to the coordinator" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Finance Coordinator. It is important to note that this position is open to Nigerian nationals only. The organization encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, and advises early application as screening may occur prior to the vacancy deadline.