Project Control Associate – UNHCR, Shire, Ethiopia

Project Control Associate – UNHCR, Shire, Ethiopia

Organization: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
Location: Shire, Tigray Region, Ethiopia
Job Type: Full-Time
Grade: GS-6
Application Deadline: November 9, 2025
Target Start Date: December 1, 2025
Eligibility: Ethiopian Nationals Only
Apply Online: Apply Here
Organization Website: www.unhcr.org

About UNHCR

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) leads global efforts to protect and assist refugees, displaced communities, and stateless people. In Ethiopia, UNHCR works with national authorities and partners to provide humanitarian assistance, ensure protection, and support durable solutions for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Position Overview

The Project Control Associate provides critical support in monitoring, auditing, and ensuring financial and operational compliance of UNHCR-funded projects. The role involves reviewing partner performance, assessing financial reports, identifying risks, and supporting project closure. The position reports directly to the Head of Sub Office (HoSO) and works closely with program and finance teams to ensure accountability and efficiency in project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Review internal control systems of implementing partners (IPs) and ensure compliance with UNHCR policies.
• Verify accuracy and consistency between financial and performance reports submitted by partners.
• Monitor project budgets, disbursements, and execution timelines to ensure targets are met.
• Contribute to project risk assessments and maintain updated risk registers.
• Support project audits, verification processes, and timely project closure.
• Identify and report significant budget or implementation variances to supervisors.
• Maintain positive and professional working relationships with implementing partners and stakeholders.
• Ensure financial and operational documentation is complete and properly archived.
• Promote partnership integrity, accountability, and safeguarding mechanisms.
• Provide guidance and capacity-building support to partners and local counterparts.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma with 3 years of relevant experience, or
• Bachelor’s degree with 2 years of relevant experience in accounting, auditing, business administration, finance, or project management.

Experience:

• Strong background in financial auditing, project monitoring, or risk management.
• Experience working with NGOs, government institutions, or international organizations preferred.
• Proven ability to verify financial data, track project implementation, and ensure compliance with donor requirements.

Skills and Competencies:

• Financial auditing and reporting (IFRS, IPSAS).
• Project management and risk management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in politically sensitive and complex environments.
• Fluency in English required; knowledge of local languages is an advantage.

Operational Context

This position is based in Shire, Tigray Region, a major operational area for UNHCR supporting displaced persons and refugees. The incumbent will oversee partner performance across multiple IDP and refugee sites, ensuring compliance with partnership agreements and operational workplans.

The region faces post-conflict recovery challenges, requiring strong oversight and coordination with government offices, local NGOs, and humanitarian agencies. The role demands attention to detail, integrity, and adaptability to changing field conditions.

Additional Information

• Hardship Level: D
• Family Type: Non-family duty station (with residential location in Addis Ababa)
• Functional Clearance: Not required
• Contract Type: Regular Assignment
• Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Applicants may undergo written or oral assessments.

UNHCR maintains a zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation, abuse, and discrimination. All staff are expected to uphold the organization’s values of Professionalism, Integrity, and Respect for Diversity.

For salary details, visit the UN Salary Calculator.

UNHCR – Protecting People, Empowering Communities, Building Better Futures.