Finance and Budget Assistant

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Finance and Budget Assistant to support its Programme and Budget Unit within the Corporate Services Division, based in Nairobi, Kenya. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the financial operations of the UN’s leading environmental agency and gain valuable international experience in UN finance and administration jobs.

Position Overview

• Job Title: Finance and Budget Assistant
• Level: General Service (G-5)
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Organization: UNEP – Corporate Services Division
• Date Posted: June 16, 2025
• Status: Closed

About UNEP

The United Nations Environment Programme is the global authority that sets the international environmental agenda and promotes sustainable development. Through strategic guidance, partnerships, and policy support, UNEP empowers countries to address the triple planetary crisis—climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution—while advancing the SDGs.

UNEP’s Corporate Services Division ensures operational efficiency and financial stewardship across the organization. It oversees compliance with UN policies, streamlines resource management, and enhances transparency in administrative functions.

Role Summary

The Finance and Budget Assistant will provide critical financial, budgetary, and administrative support to the Programme and Budget Unit. This role includes helping with budget planning, expenditure monitoring, financial analysis, donor reporting, and processing of payments, with an emphasis on ERP systems like Umoja.

Key Responsibilities

Budget Management

• Assist in preparing budget proposals, cost estimates, and performance reports
• Extract and analyze expenditure data to identify budget variances
• Support budget reviews and monitor allotments against financial regulations
• Verify consistency in allotments and support cost planning

Finance & Accounting Support

• Create financial commitments and validate funding availability in Umoja
• Backstop trust funds by monitoring voluntary contributions and expenditure
• Process payments, track invoices, and ensure financial compliance
• Prepare accurate donor and grant reports; support grant life cycle management

Administrative Functions

• Maintain legal agreement tracking and ensure timely partner payments
• Respond to staff and vendor inquiries on finance and payment issues
• Maintain proper records, documentation, and archives
• Draft routine correspondence and support financial presentations

Competencies

• Professionalism: Knowledge of UN finance procedures, data analysis, and financial compliance
• Teamwork: Collaborative, inclusive, and cooperative approach to team objectives
• Accountability: Reliable, timely, and takes ownership of assigned responsibilities

Required Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience: At least 5 years in finance, accounting, budgeting, or admin (3 years with a university degree)
• Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word; experience with ERP systems (e.g., Umoja) is desirable
• Languages: Fluency in English required; knowledge of another UN language is an asset

Desirable Qualifications

• Training in accounting, finance, or budgeting
• Experience with UN systems, including Umoja Funds Management and Grants
• Prior work in an international or UN environment
• Experience with donor reporting and grant administration

Benefits

As part of the UN General Service category, this position offers:

• Locally competitive salary and benefits
• Access to UN medical insurance, pension plans, and training
• Supportive and inclusive work environment
• Opportunities to gain international finance and grant management experience

How to Apply

This position is now closed. For similar UN finance job openings in Nairobi and other UNEP vacancies, visit the official UN Careers Portal.

Application Tips:

• Ensure your application is submitted before the closing date (usually 11:59 PM New York time)
• Double-check that your Personal History Profile (PHP) is complete and up-to-date
• Tailor your experience to match the job responsibilities

Equal Opportunity

The United Nations is committed to achieving gender parity and diversity. Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The UN encourages candidates of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities to join and thrive in its global workforce.