Application Cycle Concluded
The listed deadline for this opening was August 6, 2026. Application criteria, required documents, and preparation guidelines below remain active for upcoming academic cycles. Explore active live openings below.
About this opportunity
UNDP Ethiopia is hiring for three distinct roles with deadlines in late July and early August 2026. The positions are an Investment Specialist for SME Trade Finance (home-based, under UNCDF), a Driver based in Bahir Dar, and a Programme Analyst for AFSIT. Each role has its own application deadline, so check the dates carefully before applying. The United Nations Development Programme operates in about 170 countries and territories, helping governments design policies, build institutions, and run programs that reduce poverty and support sustainable development. In Ethiopia, UNDP works closely with the federal government and regional authorities on issues like job creation, climate resilience, digital transformation, and inclusive growth. The country office is one of the larger UNDP operations in Africa, with staff spread across Addis Ababa and regional hubs. Working for UNDP in Ethiopia means operating in a country with a fast-growing economy, a young population, and significant development challenges. Addis Ababa sits at about 2,355 meters above sea level, so the climate is mild year-round, with rainy seasons from June to September and February to May. The cost of living in Addis is moderate compared to other African capitals, though housing in better neighborhoods can be pricey. International staff typically need a work permit, which UNDP handles through its diplomatic status. The home-based Investment Specialist role offers more flexibility, though it still requires coordination with teams across time zones.
Responsibilities
Investment Specialist - SME Trade Finance (Home-Based, UNCDF):
- Design and structure trade finance facilities that support small and medium enterprises in developing countries
- Conduct due diligence on financial institutions and SMEs seeking trade finance support
- Manage a portfolio of investments, tracking performance and compliance with UNCDF mandates
- Work with local banks and microfinance institutions to expand access to trade finance products
- Prepare investment memos, risk assessments, and board papers for approval
- Monitor market trends in SME finance and identify new investment opportunities
- Coordinate with UNDP country offices and UNCDF regional teams on pipeline development
- Provide technical assistance to partner financial institutions on SME lending practices
Driver (Bahir Dar, Ethiopia):
- Drive UNDP vehicles safely for official missions within Bahir Dar and surrounding areas
- Maintain vehicles in good condition, including regular checks of oil, water, tires, and brakes
- Keep accurate logs of trips, mileage, and fuel consumption
- Assist with loading and unloading of equipment and supplies
- Ensure passengers and cargo follow UNDP security protocols
- Handle minor repairs and arrange for major servicing when needed
- Support office staff with administrative errands as required
Programme Analyst (AFSIT):
- Support the design and implementation of programs under the AFSIT framework
- Analyze data and prepare reports on program performance and outcomes
- Coordinate with government partners, NGOs, and other UN agencies on joint initiatives
- Draft concept notes, project documents, and briefing materials
- Monitor budgets and track expenditure against approved plans
- Organize workshops, trainings, and stakeholder consultations
- Contribute to resource mobilization efforts and donor reporting
Benefits
- Competitive UN salary scale based on role and location
- Home-based role includes flexibility in work arrangements
- Health and life insurance coverage through the UN system
- Annual leave and sick leave entitlements per UN rules
- Training and professional development opportunities
- For the Driver role, duty station in Bahir Dar with local cost-of-living adjustments
Requirements & Qualifications
Investment Specialist - SME Trade Finance:
- Master's degree in finance, economics, business administration, or a related field
- At least 7 years of experience in trade finance, investment banking, or SME lending
- Proven track record of structuring and managing debt or equity investments
- Strong understanding of financial risk assessment and due diligence processes
- Experience working in developing countries, preferably in Africa or Asia
- Excellent written and spoken English; knowledge of French or another UN language is an advantage
Driver (Bahir Dar):
- Valid driver's license with a clean driving record
- At least 3 years of professional driving experience, preferably with an international organization
- Knowledge of vehicle maintenance and basic mechanical repairs
- Ability to communicate in English and Amharic
- Familiarity with Bahir Dar and the Amhara region roads
- Secondary school education or equivalent
Programme Analyst (AFSIT):
- Bachelor's or master's degree in development studies, economics, public policy, or a related field
- At least 2 years of experience in program management, preferably in a UN or NGO setting
- Strong analytical and report-writing skills
- Experience with monitoring and evaluation frameworks
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and data analysis tools
- Fluency in English; knowledge of Amharic is an asset
How to Apply
- Review the specific job posting for the role you are interested in and confirm you meet the qualifications.
- Prepare your CV and a cover letter tailored to the position, highlighting relevant experience.
- Click the Apply button below to submit your application.
Ready to start your application?
Submit your materials before the official deadline.
Verify all official guidelines and eligibility criteria directly with the host institution before submitting. Prepare your transcript evaluation, referee letters, and motivational statement early to avoid deadline bottleneck delays.
Official Application Strategy & Recommended Tools
Selection Committee Priorities
- •Academic/Professional Alignment: Ensure your statement explicitly ties your past work in Ethiopia to UNDP's strategic goals.
- •Leadership Evidence: Selection panels heavily weigh demonstrated initiative, community impact, or research output.
- •Financial & Language Prerequisites: Confirm if Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates can substitute for formal standardized language test fees.




