United Nations IT Job: Operations Assistant (WFP Ethiopia) – 2026

Organization: United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) Role: IT Operations Assistant (TEC Unit) Grade: SC-5 / G-5 (General Service) Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (with frequent travel to field offices like Jijiga, Mekelle, Semera) Contract Type: Service Contract (SC) or Fixed Term Salary: Competitive (Based on UN Ethiopia Salary Scale + Benefits) Closing Date: 15 February 2026

The World Food Programme (WFP) in Ethiopia is seeking a tech-savvy problem solver to join its Technology (TEC) unit.

WFP Ethiopia is a massive logistical machine, delivering food and cash assistance to millions across complex terrain. None of this happens without IT. From the biometric scanners used in refugee camps to the satellite connectivity keeping remote field offices online, Technology is the backbone of our operation.

We are looking for an IT Operations Assistant who is not afraid to get their hands dirty. You won’t just be resetting passwords; you will be ensuring that our servers, radios, and networks stay running in some of the most challenging environments in the Horn of Africa.

Also check Remote Data Entry & Analyst Role: Entry Level / No Experience (Colorado)

Background & Role Description

In 2026, WFP is moving towards “Digital Transformation.” The Ethiopia Country Office is piloting new technologies, including Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite connectivity (Starlink) and advanced Biometric Identity Management systems.

As an IT Operations Assistant, you report to the Head of TEC. You are the first line of defense for staff facing technical issues. You will manage the Helpdesk, oversee IT assets, and frequently deploy to deep-field locations to set up emergency connectivity for humanitarian responders.

Key Responsibilities

1. User Support & Helpdesk Management:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for staff (local and international) facing hardware/software issues.
• Resolve “Tier 1” and “Tier 2” incidents related to Microsoft 365, Windows 11/12, and WFP corporate apps.
• Log all tickets in the global IT Service Management tool to ensure service level agreements (SLAs) are met.

2. Network & Connectivity:

• Assist in the installation and maintenance of LAN/WAN infrastructure (Cisco switches, Meraki Access Points).
• Monitor VSAT and Fiber internet links to ensure 99.9% uptime.
• Support the rollout of new satellite technologies in remote “deep field” locations where no cellular network exists.

3. Telecommunications (TCIT):

• Program and maintain HF and VHF Radios used for security communications (MOSS compliance).
• Ensure all vehicle radios are functional before field missions depart.

4. Asset Management:

• Manage the IT inventory store: tracking laptops, phones, and radios from “procurement to disposal.”
• Conduct physical inventory checks to prevent loss or theft of UN property.

Qualifications & Requirements

WFP Ethiopia needs a “Field IT” professional—someone resilient, adaptable, and technically sharp.

Education

• Essential: Completion of Secondary Education (High School) with additional certificates in IT.
• Desirable: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Telecommunications Engineering.

Experience

• Minimum 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in IT support or network administration.
• Experience with UN agencies or International NGOs in Ethiopia is highly desirable.
• Hands-on experience with Cisco networking, VSAT, or Radio/Satellite comms is a major advantage.

Skills & Competencies

• Language: Fluency in English and Amharic is mandatory. Knowledge of other local languages (e.g., Tigrinya, Somali, Oromiffa) is an asset.
• Certifications: ITIL Foundation, CompTIA A+, or CCNA certifications are preferred.
• Mobility: Willingness to travel to hardship locations on short notice.

Why Apply for This Position

1. Work with Cutting-Edge Tech WFP is the tech leader in the humanitarian sector. You will gain exposure to technologies (biometrics, blockchain, LEO satellites) that typical corporate IT jobs in Addis don’t offer.

2. Competitive UN Package

• Salary: Tax-exempt salary paid in local currency (ETB), pegged to the UN scale (often significantly higher than the local market).
• Medical: Comprehensive medical insurance for you and your family.
• Pension: Contribution to the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund (if Fixed Term).

3. Humanitarian Impact When you fix a server in a refugee camp, you aren’t just bringing a computer back online; you are ensuring that food distribution lists can be downloaded so families can eat that day.

How to Apply

This is a local recruitment for Ethiopian Nationals.

1. Visit the Portal: Go to the WFP Careers Website.
2. Filter:
   • Country: Select “Ethiopia”.
   • Function: Select “Technology” or “Administration.”
3. Search Keywords: “IT Operations Assistant,” “Business Support Assistant (IT),” or “TEC Assistant.”
4. Create Profile: You must apply online. Paper CVs are not accepted.

Pro Tip: In your “Cover Letter,” mention your willingness to travel to the field. WFP Ethiopia values staff who are mobile and ready to serve in remote locations like Gambella or Somali Region.

Suggested Focus Keywords

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