Centralized Warehouse Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA). Established in April 2014, MINUSCA was authorized by the UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council to address the security, humanitarian, human rights, and political crises in the Central African Republic. The mission's primary objective is the protection of civilians, alongside supporting the transition process, facilitating humanitarian assistance, promoting and protecting human rights, and supporting justice and the rule of law. The mission has a significant presence with 11,650 military personnel and 2,080 police personnel, and it operates under a mandate that includes disarmament, demobilization, reintegration, and repatriation processes. MINUSCA has subsumed the UN Integrated Peacebuilding Office in the Central African Republic (BINUCA) and has taken over military and police authority from the African Union-led peacekeeping operation (MISCA).

Job Overview:
The Centralized Warehouse Assistant position is critical for the effective management of supply items within the UN mission. The role involves supervising the receiving, inspection, and issuance of supplies, ensuring that all operations align with mission priorities and stock availability. The Warehouse Assistant will prepare and submit Cargo Movement Requests (CMRs) for the transfer of materials, maintain inventory accuracy, and coordinate with various technical units to meet the material requirements for ongoing projects. This position requires a proactive approach to managing warehouse operations, ensuring compliance with UN regulations, and maintaining a safe working environment. The role also involves preparing monthly reports and documentation for submission to the Centralized Warehouse main office, highlighting the importance of accurate record-keeping and communication within the mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Centralized Warehouse Assistant include: supervising the receiving, inspection, and issuance of supply items; preparing and submitting Cargo Movement Requests (CMRs) for material transfers; reviewing approved requests for commodities and issuing them according to mission priorities; supervising the receipt and delivery of stock and ensuring accuracy against the database; participating in the receipt and inspection of items delivered by vendors; maintaining inventory accuracy; coordinating with Regional Technical Units and Regional Administration Officers on material requirements; conducting cycle counts and addressing discrepancies; establishing and maintaining appropriate warehouse facilities; ensuring compliance with storage expiration regulations; ensuring a safe working environment; collecting and collating documentation for monthly reporting; and performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Centralized Warehouse Assistant position should possess strong integrity and professionalism, demonstrating expertise in warehouse operations and the ability to apply good judgment in a politically sensitive environment. They should be accountable, mature, and responsible, operating in compliance with organizational rules and regulations. Effective organizational and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to manage a large volume of work efficiently. Candidates must be able to establish priorities, plan, coordinate, and monitor their work under pressure. Teamwork and respect for diversity are crucial, as the role involves working in a multi-cultural environment. Strong communication skills, both spoken and written, are necessary for preparing clear reports and interacting with diverse stakeholders. Flexibility and adaptability are required to operate independently in potentially hazardous environments.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Centralized Warehouse Assistant position typically includes a high school diploma or equivalent. However, a degree in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field may be preferred. Additional training or certifications in warehouse management or inventory control can enhance a candidate's qualifications.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in warehouse operations, logistics, or supply chain management. Experience working in a UN or international organization is an advantage, as is familiarity with ERP systems such as UMOJA for inventory management. The ability to work in challenging environments and adapt to changing circumstances is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of the UN. Knowledge of French is highly desirable, given the context of the Central African Republic and the need for effective communication with local staff and stakeholders. Additional languages may be beneficial but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bangui, Central African Republic, which is classified as a non-family duty station due to the challenging security and living conditions. The assignment is renewable on an annual basis, with a maximum duration of 4 years, contingent upon mission mandate, budget availability, and satisfactory performance. The living conditions in Bangui are difficult, with limited medical infrastructure, high costs of living, and security concerns. UN personnel are advised to comply with security instructions and may face restrictions on movement. The role requires a commitment to living and working in austere conditions, with flexibility and resilience being essential traits for candidates.