Senior Administrative Assistant

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, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. The organization focuses on ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it strives to promote durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Senior Administrative Assistant position is designed to provide comprehensive administrative support to the UNHCR office in Yaounde, Cameroon. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of more senior local or international staff, assisting in various administrative tasks that are crucial for the smooth operation of the office. This role does not involve direct supervisory responsibilities but requires a proactive approach to managing administrative functions. The Senior Administrative Assistant will be responsible for interpreting and processing entitlements, maintaining personnel records, and managing the movement and attendance of UNHCR staff members. The position demands a high level of discretion and confidentiality, as the incumbent will handle sensitive information and correspondence. The role also includes liaising with local suppliers and officials, drafting reports, and assisting with travel arrangements, making it essential for the candidate to possess strong organizational and communication skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Administrative Assistant include: assisting in the interpretation and processing of entitlements, issuing contracts, and maintaining personnel records; attending meetings related to administrative matters; monitoring attendance records, leave plans, and visa requirements for UNHCR staff; searching office files for information and preparing reports and correspondence; requisitioning office supplies and managing inventory; assisting with travel arrangements and visa issuance; drafting correspondence and reports, including confidential documents; managing the supervisor's calendar and appointments; receiving visitors and handling queries; organizing the UNHCR office and residential compounds; facilitating official missions; preparing attestations and certificates; processing claims; identifying and managing risks; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 1 year of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include a background in Business Administration, Finance, Office Management, Human Resources, or a related field. Candidates should possess strong IT skills, particularly in computer literacy and familiarity with UN/UNHCR administrative rules and procedures. Knowledge of PeopleSoft applications is also essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a solid understanding of administrative management, including document preparation, inventory management, and travel organization.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a High School Diploma as a minimum educational requirement, with a Bachelor’s degree or higher being preferred. Relevant certifications in Business Administration, Finance, Office Management, or Human Resources are also required. Completion of UNHCR learning programs or specific training relevant to the functions of the position is desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the organization's operational context and procedures.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant administrative experience for candidates with a High School Diploma, or 1 year of relevant experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in an international organization or within the UN system is highly desirable, as it provides insight into the specific administrative processes and challenges faced in such environments. Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record of managing administrative tasks effectively and efficiently, showcasing their ability to work in a complex operational setting.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in 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 is required. Familiarity with local languages is considered an asset, as it enhances communication with local stakeholders and officials.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a temporary assignment with a hardship level of E, indicating a challenging working environment. The contract duration is from August 1, 2026, to December 31, 202

• The role is categorized under the General Service grade GS5, and it is a non-family position with residential arrangements. The ideal candidate should be adaptable, resilient, and capable of providing high-quality administrative support in a demanding operational context. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UNHCR's salary scales and policies.