United Nations Job Opening: Senior Accounting Assistant Location: New York

United Nations Job Opening: Senior Accounting Assistant

Location: New York | Department: United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF)

Organization Setting and Reporting

The United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF) was established in 1949 to provide retirement, death, disability, and related benefits for staff of the United Nations and member organizations. The Fund serves over 150,700 participants and pays benefits in 19 currencies to more than 70,000 beneficiaries worldwide.

Headquartered in New York and Geneva, with liaison offices in Nairobi and Bangkok, the UNJSPF employs about 250 staff across diverse duty stations. Staff benefits include six weeks of annual leave, a defined pension plan, parental leave, insurance coverage, and flexible work arrangements.

This position is located in the Accounts Section, Financial Services Division of UNJSPF, New York. The incumbent reports to the Accountant and Deputy Chief of the Section.

Responsibilities

• Analyze complex accounting transactions related to pension contributions and benefits; recommend follow-up actions.
• Review and reconcile clearing accounts; investigate invalid entries and take corrective action.
• Audit accounting transactions (contributions, benefit payments, fees, bank credits, etc.) to ensure compliance.
• Review completeness of reports and general ledger accounts periodically.
• Assist in preparing UNJSPF financial statements and account analysis.
• Provide training and guidance to staff on IPAS and Oracle EBS systems.
• Supervise support staff as required.
• Respond to staff, beneficiaries, auditors, and stakeholders with reports and memoranda.
• Prepare data presentations, reports, and update informational material such as webpages or brochures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

Professionalism: Strong knowledge of UN financial regulations, ability to interpret complex data, persistence under challenges, and commitment to gender equality.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively, values input from others, shares credit for team achievements, and accepts joint responsibility.

Accountability: Takes ownership, delivers quality outputs on time, supports subordinates, and ensures compliance with organizational standards.

Education

High school diploma or equivalent is required.

Work Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, or related area (8 years with a degree).
• At least 3 years in complex, high-volume bank reconciliation is required.
• Experience in post-employment benefit schemes, ERP systems (IPAS/Oracle EBS), and supervising staff is desirable.
• Experience in UN common system or international organizations is desirable.

Languages

English is required. Knowledge of French is an advantage.

Assessment

Evaluation may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview.

Special Notice

This position is subject to local recruitment in New York. Applicants must be authorized to work at the duty station. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for benefits exclusive to international recruitment.

United Nations Considerations

In line with the UN Charter, recruitment ensures the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. The UN does not tolerate violations of international law, misconduct, or harassment. The UN promotes gender equality and diverse geographical representation.

No Fee: The United Nations does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Visit www.unjspf.org for details.