WFP Jobs 2026: Budget and Programming Assistant SC 5 in Nairobi, Kenya
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is inviting applications for a Budget and Programming Assistant SC 5 position based in Nairobi, Kenya. This full-time opportunity is suitable for finance, accounting, economics and business administration professionals with experience in budget management, financial analysis and programme support.
The successful candidate will provide technical and administrative support for financial planning, budget monitoring and project performance analysis. The role will contribute to ensuring that financial resources are effectively managed and utilised in accordance with WFP policies, procedures and operational requirements.
This position offers an opportunity to work within one of the world’s leading humanitarian organisations and contribute to programmes supporting vulnerable communities.
Interested candidates with the required academic qualifications, professional accounting credentials and relevant work experience are encouraged to apply before the closing date.
WFP Budget and Programming Assistant Job Overview
- Organisation: World Food Programme (WFP)
- Position: Budget and Programming Assistant
- Job Grade: SC 5
- Job Reference: JR128005
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Job Category: Finance and Administration
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Application Deadline: 12 November 2026
- Language Requirement: English
About the World Food Programme
The World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organisation, working to save lives during emergencies and using food assistance to support recovery, stability and long-term development.
WFP operates in countries affected by conflict, natural disasters, food insecurity and other humanitarian challenges. Its work depends on effective financial management, strategic resource allocation and strong programme oversight to ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches those who need it most.
Working for WFP provides professionals with an opportunity to contribute to international humanitarian operations while developing their careers in a diverse and multicultural environment.
Key Responsibilities
The Budget and Programming Assistant will support financial planning, budget monitoring and the analysis of project financial performance.
The main responsibilities will include:
- Supporting the review of budget plans and monitoring project financial performance.
- Analysing financial information and recommending improvements to resource utilisation.
- Monitoring fund and grant balances and identifying discrepancies for further review.
- Supporting pipeline management to identify and prevent funding and operational pipeline breaks.
- Entering accurate financial and programme information into WFP corporate systems within established deadlines.
- Compiling financial data and preparing periodic and ad hoc reports.
- Maintaining accurate financial records, documentation and filing systems.
- Communicating with relevant stakeholders regarding project funding and financial management processes.
- Providing guidance and on-the-job training to colleagues on budget planning, fund management and operational planning.
- Supporting emergency preparedness to ensure resources can be deployed quickly when humanitarian crises occur.
The successful candidate will work with relevant colleagues to support effective financial planning, improve reporting accuracy and promote accountability in the management of programme resources.
Qualifications and Experience
WFP is looking for candidates with an academic background in finance, accounting, commerce, economics or business administration, together with relevant professional experience.
Education Requirements
Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university in one of the following fields:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Commerce
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Another relevant discipline.
A recognised professional accounting qualification, such as ACCA or CPA, or significant progress towards completing one of these qualifications, is also required.
Work Experience
Candidates must have at least five years of relevant professional experience in finance, commerce, business administration, economics or a related field.
Experience in budget analysis, financial reporting, fund management and programme financial administration will be particularly relevant.
Desired Experience
WFP would particularly value candidates who have:
- Assisted in preparing complex financial documents.
- Supported budget performance analysis.
- Contributed to the collection and management of pipeline data.
- Worked with financial information to support programme planning and decision-making.
Language Requirements
Fluency in English at C level is required.
Why Consider a Career with WFP?
The World Food Programme offers professionals an opportunity to work in an internationally recognised humanitarian organisation with a strong commitment to saving lives and supporting communities affected by emergencies.
WFP was awarded the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of its efforts to combat hunger, improve conditions for peace and prevent the use of hunger as a weapon of war.
The organisation also promotes professional development through training, coaching, mentorship, accreditation and opportunities for internal career mobility.
For finance and programme professionals, this role offers valuable exposure to humanitarian financial management, budget planning, resource allocation and international programme operations.
How to Apply for the WFP Budget and Programming Assistant Position
Interested and qualified candidates should submit their applications through the official WFP online recruitment system.
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that their Workday profiles are complete and up to date, including their employment history, academic qualifications, professional certifications and language skills.
At the application stage, candidates are required to submit:
- An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A Cover Letter.
Additional supporting documents, such as academic certificates, professional qualifications and recommendation letters, may be requested during subsequent recruitment stages.
Applications submitted through email, LinkedIn or other channels will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Important: The United Nations and WFP do not charge application, processing, interview or recruitment fees. Applicants should be cautious of fraudulent recruitment requests.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is 12 November 2026 at 23:59 East Africa Time (GMT+3).
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute technical difficulties.
