Administrative Assistant

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is currently hiring an experienced Administrative Assistant to join its Economy Division at the Nairobi duty station. This is an excellent opportunity for professionals seeking UN administrative jobs in Nairobi or those looking to contribute to global environmental governance through impactful administrative support.

Key Job Information

• Position: Administrative Assistant
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Job Network: Management and Administration
• Job Family: Administration
• Category and Level: General Service (G-6)
• Department/Office: UNEP – Economy Division
• Date Posted: June 19, 2025
• Deadline: July 18, 2025
• Employment Type: Full-time, Fixed-Term

About UNEP – United Nations Environment Programme

The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global authority on the environment within the United Nations system. With a mission to promote sustainable development through sound environmental practices globally, UNEP sets the environmental agenda, advocates for global sustainability, and works with member states to achieve environmental goals aligned with the UN 2030 Agenda.

The Economy Division within UNEP aims to influence decision-making across governments, industry, and civil society by promoting sustainable production and consumption, responsible trade, green investment strategies, and sound chemical management. By bridging science, policy, and innovation, the division facilitates transformative change at all levels.

Job Description

As an Administrative Assistant at UNEP Nairobi, the successful candidate will provide administrative, HR, and contract-related support to ensure smooth internal operations across the Economy Division. This role is key to enabling the division’s mission of advancing green growth and sustainable economies by delivering seamless back-office support.

Key Responsibilities

Human Resources Support

• Coordinate HR processes including staff recruitment, contracts, relocation, promotion, and separation
• Guide staff on entitlements, policies, and procedures under UN Staff Rules
• Maintain HR records, performance appraisals, job classifications, and vacancy files
• Monitor the staffing table and generate workforce statistics and visual data
• Support interactions with UNON and Corporate HR offices on HR compliance and processes

General Administration

• Draft routine correspondence on personnel, financial, and administrative matters
• Coordinate internally across divisions and with external UN entities globally
• Review contracts and legal instruments to ensure procedural compliance
• Support logistical needs including space planning, technology procurement, and maintenance
• Supervise junior General Service staff and coordinate daily workflows

Requisition and Contract Management

• Act as requisitioner for procurement of services for the Director’s office
• Facilitate daily contract administration for outsourced services
• Process UN documents: passes, keys, swipe cards, and related permissions

Data Management and Reporting

• Collect and analyze administrative data to generate management reports
• Create visualizations and update web and printed materials
• Assist in knowledge management and contribute to decision-making data dashboards

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required
• At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in administration, human resources, finance, accounting, or related areas
• Experience working with ERP systems such as Umoja or Inspira
• Proficiency in English (fluency required); knowledge of another UN language is desirable

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, environmental studies, or related field (an asset)
• Experience in international organizations such as the UN is strongly preferred
• Experience with UN administrative procedures, procurement, and HR policies is highly advantageous
• Familiarity with organizing international conferences, retreats, and events is desirable
• One year or more of experience in data analytics is an added advantage

Key Competencies

• Professionalism: Deep understanding of UN regulations, strong analytical and judgment skills, and ability to work under pressure
• Teamwork: Collaborative mindset, open to diverse perspectives, and supportive of collective goals
• Planning & Organizing: Strong organizational skills, time management, risk awareness, and ability to handle competing priorities

Benefits and Compensation

This General Service position is locally recruited and offers a competitive salary aligned with UN standards in Nairobi. While it does not offer relocation or international benefits, it provides access to:

• Medical and pension benefits as per UN regulations
• Professional development opportunities within the UN system
• Diverse, inclusive, and mission-driven working environment
• Flexibility, stability, and career mobility within the UN Secretariat

How to Apply for the Administrative Assistant Role at United Nations

If you’re looking for UN job openings in Kenya or an Administrative Assistant opportunity in Nairobi, apply now and contribute to UNEP’s impactful work on the global stage.

Application Instructions:

• Click the “Apply Now” button on the UN Careers Portal
• Ensure all fields in your Inspira profile are complete, accurate, and up to date
• Applications close at 11:59 PM New York Time on July 18, 2025

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.

Equal Opportunity and Special Considerations

The United Nations is committed to gender parity and diversity in its workforce. Applications from women and candidates from underrepresented member states are especially encouraged. Reasonable accommodation will be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.