Background

The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) is executing projects "Gene Editing in Tef for Uplifting Productivity (GET-UP) and Optimum Tef (OT). These projects  aim to develop and deliver innovative tef technologies to improve the productivity, resilience, and mechanizability of tef. Effective financial management is essential to guarantee the efficient utilization of project resources, adherence to government and development partner requirements, and the timely accomplishment of project goals.

To facilitate the seamless execution of these projects and other projects, EIAR is seeking a qualified and experienced Finance Officer. This individual will be tasked with overseeing the project's financial operations in compliance with relevant development partner standards. EIAR financial regulations, the Government of Ethiopia's guidelines, and the relevant development standards

The Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research (EIAR) is at the heart of Ethiopia's agricultural research and innovation system. Through its wide network of research centers across the country, EIAR works to generate and deliver practical agricultural technologies that improve productivity, strengthen resilience to climate change, and support sustainable use of natural resources. As part of its ongoing efforts to respond to delivering innovative agricultural technologies, EIAR is implementing projects entitled "Gene Editing in Tef for Uplifting Productivity (GET-UP) and Optimum Tef (OT)". These projects focuses on developing and delivering innovative tef technologies that directly benefit farmers and the wider agricultural sector.

Purpose of the Position

Strong and transparent financial management is essential for the success of this project resources, EIAR is seeking to recruit a dedicated and experienced Finance Officer who will oversee the day- to-day financial operations of these projects.

project. To support smooth implementation and ensure responsible use of project

The Finance Officer will play a key role in ensuring that project funds are planned, used, and reported properly. The position is intended to support timely implementation of project activities while maintaining full compliance with EIAR financial procedures, Government of Ethiopia regulations, and the requirements of development partners.

Job Requirements

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration or with related field of study

Experience:

• At least five (5) years of relevant professional experience in financial management.
• Experience working on donor-funded projects, public institutions, or research organizations is highly desirable.

Quantity Required: 1

Salary: Project based

Project: GUT_UP and Optimum Tef

Duty Station: EIAR Headquarters (with occasional travel to research centers)

Reporting Line: Project Coordinator, in close coordination with the EIAR Finance Directorate

Duration of Contract: The Finance Officer will be hired on a project-based contract for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and availability of project funds.

Performance Assessment: Performance will be reviewed periodically based on quality and timeliness of financial reports, compliance with financial regulations, and overall contribution to the successful implementation of the projects

Duties and Responsibilities:

The Finance Officer will work closely with the Project Coordinator, technical teams, and the EIAR Finance Directorate, and will be responsible for the following roles:

• Preparing annual and quarterly project budgets in collaboration with the project team
• Recording all project financial transactions accurately and in a timely manner using EIAR's financial systems;
• Ensuring that all expenses are within assigned project budget;
• Processing payments, advances, and reimbursements in line with approved budgets and supporting documents;
• Monitoring expenditures and ensuring that spending remains within approved budgets;
• Preparing clear and timely financial reports on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis;
• Maintaining well-organized financial records, including vouchers, receipts, contracts, and related documents;
• Ensuring compliance with EIAR financial rules, Government regulations, and donor requirements;
• Supporting internal and external audits by providing the necessary documentation and explanations;
• Coordinating with procurement and finance teams to ensure smooth financial processing of project activities;
• Checks the accuracy and compliance of petty cash expenditure and its timely replenishment;
• Reviews monthly charges from the projects, assigns proper budget codes and ensures monthly financial reports are submitted to the project coordinator in time with sufficient and appropriate supporting documentation;
• Liaises with the EIAR and other development partners regarding financial and accounting related matters;
• Monitoring cash flow and anticipating funding needs to avoid delay's in project implementation;
• Identifying potential financial risks and suggesting practical solutions;
• Carrying out any other finance-related tasks assigned by the Project Coordinator or EIAR management.

Expected Outputs

By effectively performing the above responsibilities, the Finance Officer is expected to deliver:

• Well-prepared and approved project budgets;
• Accurate and timely financial reports;
• Properly maintained and audit-ready financial records;
• Up-to-date expenditure tracking and cash flow forecasts

Skills & Competencies:

• Familiarity with development partner financial procedures (such as World Bank-funded projects) is an advantage.
• Strong understanding of accounting and financial management practices;
• Good command of computerized accounting systems and Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel;
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and organization.
• High level of integrity and sense of responsibility;
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.
• Good communication skills in English.

How to Apply

Qualified and interested candidates are invited to apply in accordance with EIAR recruitment procedures by submitting a cover letter, updated curriculum vitae, and copies of relevant academic and professional credentials via email: alemuasres2016@gmail.com in a PDF format as one document or in person to Executive of Competence & Human Resource Management Office, Dr. Seme Debela Building,

For more information, contact us at: +251116454441 or +251116460174

P. 0. Box 2003 Addis Ababa,

Job Requirements Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, Business Administration or with related field of study with relevant work experience How to Apply Submit a cover letter, updated curriculum vitae, and copies of relevant academic and professional credentials via email: alemuasres2016@gmail.com or apply in person to Executive of Competence & Human Resource Management Office, Dr. Seme Debela Building, For more information, contact us at: +251116454441 or +251116460174