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 mission is to provide assistance and protection to approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. UNRWA aims to help these refugees achieve their full potential in human development while awaiting a just resolution to their situation. The agency operates the largest UN operation in the Middle East, employing over 30,000 staff members and offering a wide range of services including education, healthcare, relief and social services, camp infrastructure improvement, microfinance, and emergency assistance. UNRWA is primarily funded through voluntary contributions from UN member states, regional bodies, business foundations, and individual donations. The agency is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of one of the world's most vulnerable communities, and it encourages individuals who share this vision to apply for positions within the organization.

Job Overview:
The Finance Assistant position at UNRWA involves a variety of financial responsibilities aimed at ensuring the accurate processing and management of financial data within the agency's ERP system. The incumbent will report to the Senior Finance Assistant and will be expected to enter, verify, and retrieve financial data in accordance with established financial rules and regulations. This role is crucial for maintaining the integrity of financial transactions related to the agency's diverse activities. The Finance Assistant will prepare necessary documentation for financial transactions, ensuring that all transactions are properly documented, calculated, and coded in compliance with relevant contracts, policies, and technical instructions. The position requires a proactive approach to addressing queries from various stakeholders, including expending officers, employees, suppliers, and contractors. Additionally, the Finance Assistant will assist in analyzing and validating financial data, contributing to the preparation of periodic reports as requested by supervisors. This role is essential for maintaining the financial health of the agency and supporting its mission to assist Palestine refugees.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Finance Assistant will be responsible for the following duties:
  • Entering, verifying, and retrieving financial data in the Agency’s ERP system, ensuring compliance with applicable financial rules and regulations.
  • Preparing documentation for financial transactions related to the Agency’s activities, ensuring proper documentation, calculation, and coding in accordance with contracts and policies.
  • Maintaining financial agreements and ensuring accurate recording of all payments under these agreements.
  • Addressing queries from expending officers, employees, suppliers, contractors, banks, and Area Offices regarding financial matters.
  • Assisting in the analysis, checking, and validation of financial data, and aiding supervisors in preparing periodic reports.
  • Conducting necessary checks based on supporting documents and ensuring compliance with financial technical instructions and policies.
  • Performing any other duties as assigned by supervisors, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to support the team as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of four years of experience in accounting, bookkeeping, and financial work. Experience with computerized finance systems is essential, along with proficiency in computer applications such as Excel and Access. The role requires a strong understanding of financial processes and the ability to work effectively within a team environment. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to the UN's core values of integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity. Additionally, the ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with diverse groups is crucial for success in this position.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for the Finance Assistant position is a two-year diploma from an accredited educational institution in accountancy, finance, or a related discipline. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding financial principles and practices relevant to the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of four years of relevant experience in accounting, bookkeeping, and financial work. This experience should include familiarity with computerized finance systems and proficiency in using software applications such as Excel and Access. The role may also require candidates to demonstrate their involvement in various outside activities, including employment, independent contracting, or voluntary work, which can provide additional context for their qualifications and skills.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is required. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages, as per the UN Language Framework. While English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, this specific job opening emphasizes the necessity of Arabic due to the local context of the position.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a Daily Paid Assignment for a duration of up to three months, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability, satisfactory performance, and ongoing need. The daily rate for this position is set at 27.12 USD, which may be subject to adjustments based on the work schedule. Employees will receive one day of annual leave and one day of sick leave for each completed month of service. The vacancy is open to both internal and external candidates, but only those residing in Syria and authorized to work in the duty station at the time of application are eligible to apply. UNRWA will not facilitate work permits, and candidates without valid work permits may have their appointments rescinded. Preference will be given to registered Palestine refugees and candidates from underrepresented genders to support the agency's commitment to gender parity. UNRWA also welcomes applications from qualified candidates with disabilities. A roster may be created from this selection process, allowing successful candidates to be considered for future vacancies. It is important for applicants to complete their applications accurately and fully in UNRWA's online e-recruitment system, as incomplete applications will not be considered. The agency maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and conducts thorough background checks on all recommended candidates.
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