Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Project Administrative Assistant (Ref: 202554)
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience (specific details provided upon application)
• Category/Department: Administration
• Reporting To: Administrative Coordinator
• Application Deadline: 6 August 2025

Introduction

Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi are essential for supporting dynamic research initiatives in agriculture and environmental science, offering professionals a chance to contribute to impactful projects in a global non-profit setting. This role involves providing comprehensive administrative support to Africa-based programs, including workshop organization, staff onboarding, travel logistics, procurement, and payments, ensuring smooth operations for international forestry and agroforestry research. Ideal for detail-oriented individuals with a passion for administrative excellence, this position in Nairobi’s vibrant professional landscape allows you to facilitate critical work on energy insecurity, climate crises, and biodiversity challenges. Join a team dedicated to multidisciplinary approaches that improve lives, protect ecosystems, and advance evidence-based solutions for a more equitable world.

About CIFOR-ICRAF

CIFOR-ICRAF, comprising the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF), is a leading non-profit science institution focused on forests, trees, and agroforestry. Operating across drylands to humid tropics, the organization builds evidence to address global challenges like poverty, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. With over 65 years of combined experience, CIFOR-ICRAF employs multidisciplinary methods to enhance ecosystems and human well-being. As members of CGIAR, they partner with stakeholders on innovative research, policy influence, and practical solutions. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, CIFOR-ICRAF serves Africa and beyond, promoting sustainable landscapes and resilient communities through knowledge generation and capacity building.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide general administrative support to Africa-based BMI and BRS program staff and projects to ensure efficient operations
• Organize and lead BMI and BRS regional workshops and trainings, handling budgets, advances, reimbursements, and logistics such as visas, invitations, accommodations, flights, transfers, and venue selection
• Assist with onboarding new staff, including country moves, computer allocation, phone purchase, vehicle assignment, driving license acquisition, accommodation, and office setup
• Manage timely local payments, maintain simple accounts for payments and reimbursements, and prepare travel reports and expenses for IRS staff credit cards
• Oversee BMI/BRS infrastructure, including procurement of supplies while adhering to best practices and guidelines
• Coordinate communications with internal members, external stakeholders, and follow up on meetings to facilitate collaboration
• Monitor routine matters as requested by the Administrative Coordinator, and provide backup support during absences to maintain commitments and tasks
• File correspondence, including incoming and outgoing documents, maintain data records, and ensure proper organization for easy access
• Represent BMI and BRS in CIMMYT country/regional administrative meetings, take minutes, and manage staff travel arrangements
• Perform any other tasks and assignments as directed by the Administrative Coordinator to support program goals

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Communications, or a related field
• At least 3–4 years of experience as a program/project administrative assistant or similar role, preferably in an international or non-profit organization
• Familiarity with ERP tools, Icertis, and ticketing systems for efficient administrative processes
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostics skills to resolve operational issues promptly
• Understanding of business functions including HR, Finance, Procurement, and Grants
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration
• Experience working in multicultural, multi-country contexts to navigate diverse environments
• Familiarity with Microsoft tools such as Teams, SharePoint, and Office 365 for productivity
• High level of discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive information
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team environment and under tight deadlines
• Capacity to work independently and well within teams for optimal results

Company Culture and Values

CIFOR-ICRAF promotes a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive culture focused on equity, sustainability, and impact. The organization values multidisciplinary teamwork, empowering staff to address global challenges through evidence-based research. Committed to diversity, CIFOR-ICRAF fosters an environment where employees from varied backgrounds contribute to reducing poverty, enhancing food security, and improving natural resources. Professional development is encouraged through training and partnerships, aligning with CGIAR’s mission for a food-secure future. In the Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi, staff are supported to thrive in a multicultural setting, emphasizing ethical practices, work-life balance, and contributions to environmental and social well-being.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi at CIFOR-ICRAF. Submit your CV, cover letter, and relevant certificates via the online application portal at CIFOR-ICRAF Careers. Clearly indicate the position title and reference number (Project Administrative Assistant, Ref: 202554) in your application. Applications must be received by 6 August 2025. CIFOR-ICRAF is an equal-opportunity employer, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and minority groups. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Additional Engagement

View More Job Opportunities
Explore more vacancies at
Browse verified jobs on JobKenya.org

Free WhatsApp Channel for Job Seekers
Get real-time alerts from our
WhatsApp Channel for Job Updates

Tags

Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi, administrative careers, Nairobi project jobs, CIFOR-ICRAF vacancies, Kenya non-profit opportunities

Why Pursue Project Administrative Assistant Jobs in Nairobi?

Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi are increasingly vital in Kenya’s growing non-profit and research sector, offering roles that support global initiatives on forestry, agroforestry, and environmental sustainability. Nairobi, as a hub for international organizations like CIFOR-ICRAF, provides a dynamic environment for professionals to contribute to projects addressing climate change, biodiversity, and food security. These Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi involve diverse tasks like workshop organization and staff onboarding, making them ideal for detail-oriented individuals seeking meaningful work. At CIFOR-ICRAF, the role supports BMI and BRS programs, allowing assistants to facilitate multidisciplinary research that impacts ecosystems and communities. With Nairobi’s strategic location, these Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi offer opportunities to work in multicultural teams, enhancing career growth in international development.

The Non-Profit Sector in Kenya

Kenya’s non-profit sector is a key driver of development, with organizations like CIFOR-ICRAF leading in forestry and agroforestry research. Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi play a crucial role in ensuring project success by handling logistics, payments, and communications. Nairobi’s position as Africa’s “Silicon Savannah” attracts global talent, making Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi highly competitive yet rewarding. CIFOR-ICRAF’s focus on evidence-based solutions for environmental challenges positions assistants at the forefront of sustainable development. These Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi require familiarity with tools like ERP and Microsoft Office, skills that are transferable across sectors.

Career Growth in Project Administrative Assistant Jobs in Nairobi

The Project Administrative Assistant role at CIFOR-ICRAF offers significant career advancement, with exposure to international projects and non-profit management. In Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi, professionals gain experience in multicultural settings, building skills in procurement, travel logistics, and event planning. The two-year appointment, with potential extension, provides stability and growth opportunities. For those with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, these Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi serve as a stepping stone to senior administrative or project management roles. CIFOR-ICRAF’s emphasis on training ensures continuous professional development.

Skills Required for Project Administrative Assistant Jobs in Nairobi

Success in Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi demands strong organizational and communication skills, as seen in the role’s requirements. Familiarity with ERP tools and Microsoft 365 is essential for handling payments and logistics. These Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi also require discretion and the ability to work under deadlines in multicultural teams. A Bachelor’s degree and 3-4 years of experience prepare candidates for tasks like workshop organization. In Nairobi’s fast-paced environment, adaptability is key for Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi.

The Importance of Administrative Support in Research Projects

Administrative support is the backbone of research projects at organizations like CIFOR-ICRAF. Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi ensure smooth operations by managing onboarding, procurement, and communications. This role supports BMI and BRS programs, contributing to global challenges like climate crises. By handling logistics, assistants in Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi enable researchers to focus on innovation. Nairobi’s role as a research hub makes these positions critical for sustainable development.

How to Prepare for Project Administrative Assistant Jobs in Nairobi

To excel in Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi, candidates should build experience in non-profit settings and master tools like Icertis. Tailoring resumes to highlight multicultural experience is vital for roles at CIFOR-ICRAF. Networking in Nairobi’s development sector can lead to Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi. The application process emphasizes skills in HR, finance, and procurement.

Living and Working in Nairobi for Project Administrative Assistant Jobs

Nairobi offers a vibrant lifestyle for those in Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi, with access to cultural sites and international communities. The city’s infrastructure supports professionals in non-profits like CIFOR-ICRAF. Competitive salaries and growth opportunities make Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi attractive. The location facilitates regional travel for project support.

Diversity and Inclusion in Project Administrative Assistant Jobs in Nairobi

CIFOR-ICRAF emphasizes diversity, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups for Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi. This inclusive approach enriches teams and innovations. The Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi promote equity in environmental research.

Final Thoughts on Project Administrative Assistant Jobs in Nairobi

Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi at CIFOR-ICRAF offer a unique chance to support global sustainability. With competitive terms and impactful work, these roles are ideal for motivated professionals. Apply for Project Administrative Assistant jobs in Nairobi to join a mission-driven team.

Disclaimer: JOBKENYA.ORG is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring company directly. Please do not send your applications to us, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.

Follow Us:
Twitter: Kenyan Job Finder
LinkedIn: The Kenyan Job Finder