Budget Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is a principal institution of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) that focuses on the human dimension of security. Established to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, ODIHR operates across the OSCE area, which includes 57 participating States. The organization is dedicated to election observation, democratic development, and fostering tolerance and non-discrimination. ODIHR's mission is to assist participating States in implementing their commitments in these areas, ensuring that all individuals can enjoy their rights and freedoms. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all.

Job Overview:
The Budget Assistant position is a critical role within the Finance Unit of ODIHR, specifically in the Budget and Internal Control Sub-unit. This role is designed to support the financial management of the Pathways to Inclusion Project, which aims to enhance community cohesion and address hate crimes through dialogue, education, and security initiatives. The Budget Assistant will be responsible for ensuring effective utilization of budgeted resources, providing guidance to colleagues on budget management, and preparing budgets for programmatic activities. The position requires a strong understanding of budgetary processes and the ability to communicate effectively with programmatic staff to align financial resources with project objectives. The candidate must demonstrate a commitment to the entire duration of the project, which is expected to last until March 31, 2028, subject to funding availability. The role also involves compliance with donor funding conditions and maintaining accurate financial records, making it essential for the candidate to possess a solid background in finance and budget management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected candidate will perform a variety of functions and duties, including:

• Reviewing proposed expenditures for authorization and ensuring compliance with regulations and availability of funds.
• Providing support and guidance to colleagues on budget management, including training on policies and donor requirements.
• Preparing budgets for programmatic activities based on data from programmatic staff and previous project experiences.
• Monitoring budget utilization and forecasting expected results to support management decision-making.
• Ensuring compliance with donor funding conditions by preparing financial requests and reports.
• Recording transactions in the general ledger system and ensuring the accuracy of financial records.
• Investigating discrepancies and taking corrective actions as necessary.
• Communicating with programmatic staff and Finance Unit colleagues regarding financial updates and program changes.
• Assisting in the preparation of annual donor reports and financial aspects of donor communication. 1
• Supporting the overall objectives of the Finance Unit and contributing to the successful implementation of the Pathways to Inclusion Project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, with supplementary training in accounting or administrative courses being desirable. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in finance, budgeting, or related areas is required. Proficiency in using financial modules of Enterprise Resource Planning systems is essential, along with strong computer skills, particularly in Microsoft applications and large computerized accounting systems. Experience working within a donor-funded or international organization is preferred, as is established knowledge of budget management processes. Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English are mandatory, while knowledge of Polish or Russian is considered an asset. The ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse nationalities, religions, and cultural backgrounds is also crucial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a completed secondary education, with a preference for candidates who have pursued supplementary training in accounting or administrative courses. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of budget management and financial oversight within the context of international organizations.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant experience in finance, budgeting, or related fields. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with financial systems and managing budgets effectively. Experience in a donor-funded or international organization is highly desirable, as it provides insight into the specific challenges and requirements of managing funds in such environments.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Knowledge of Polish or Russian is considered advantageous, as it may facilitate better communication with local stakeholders and enhance the candidate's ability to navigate the regional context of the work.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract with an initial duration of 12 months, subject to satisfactory completion of a 6-month probationary period. The role is full-time and is classified at the General Services level (G5). The monthly remuneration is approximately PLN 10,100, and OSCE salaries are exempt from taxation in Poland. The position includes participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and contributions to the OSCE Provident Fund. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not reimburse expenses related to the application process, and candidates must be aware that appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years.