Job vacancies at European Center for Electoral Support (ECES), Ethiopia
5 Open Jobs
About ECES and EURECS II
ECES is a not-for-profit private foundation headquartered in Brussels with a global remit. ECES promotes sustainable democratic development through the provision of advisory services, operational support and management of large projects in the electoral and democracy assistance field. ECES works with all electoral stakeholders, including electoral management bodies, civil society organizations involved in voter education and election observation, political parties, parliaments, media, security forces, religious groups and legal institutions confronted with electoral disputes resolution.
The European Centre for Electoral Support (ECES) is implementing the second phase of the European Response to Electoral Cycle Support (EURECS II) in Ethiopia. This project aims to contribute to inclusive, transparent, and credible electoral processes, and strengthen the capacities of electoral stakeholders.
Project’s context
Actions in support of democratization and respect for human rights, including the right to participate in the establishment of governments through free and fair elections, can make a major contribution to the peace, security, prosperity, and well-being of people. In that regard, the EURECS I project was implemented in Ethiopia from 2019 until March 2024, with funding from the EU in Ethiopia and Germany.
The EURECS was crafted as an innovative and alternative delivery mechanism to implement electoral and democracy assistance activities that are consistent with the EU’s values and policies, and targets to facilitate the implementation of the recommendations of the EU election observation mission (EOM) in Ethiopia that national authorities agree to strive towards. The action has a built-in election conflict prevention, mitigation, and management aim in nearly all activities prescribed by this approach.
Recognizing the high expectations of the 7th general elections of 2026 for the consolidation of a well-functioning democracy in the country, the EURECS II project seeks to contribute by strengthening the transparency, credibility, and public confidence in the election process and in the NEBE, as well as in the capacity of the civil society to be a major and credible actor in the electoral process. The project will support NEBE in fostering the inclusion of all segments of the electorate, including marginalised and vulnerable groups. In continuation of past efforts, the project will also strengthen the CECOE platform and other CSOs in electoral observation, civic and voter education, and awareness-raising targeted at disenfranchised groups, including youth and first-time voters.
The EURECS II project in Ethiopia is built around the three main specific objectives as follows:
Empower NEBE to hold all levels of elections and implement lessons learned from 2021 for the 7th General Election in 2026;
Strengthen CSOs in their election observation and support them in extending it to mid-cycle elections (municipal, referendum, and reruns) as well as voter and candidate registration.
Support civic and voter information to vulnerable groups, including IDPs, PWDs, the illiterate, women candidates, youth, and first-time voters.
Election observation, both national and international, is widely recognized as a cornerstone of electoral integrity. It contributes to transparency, accountability and credibility across all phases of the electoral process, from voter registration to the announcement of results, and reinforces public trust in the conduct and outcomes of elections. Media monitoring and analytical reporting constitute essential complementary tools for assessing the quality of the electoral environment and identifying emerging risks.
Civil society organisations are entitled to engage in electoral processes through non-partisan election observation, in accordance with international norms and standards. Such engagement contributes to enhanced transparency and accountability and plays an important role in building public trust in the credibility and legitimacy of elections. Civil society organisations may also support electoral processes through complementary activities, including civic and voter education, promotion of codes of conduct for electoral stakeholders, auditing of voters’ lists, media monitoring, facilitation of public debates, and formulation of technical recommendations for electoral reforms.
The Declaration of Global Principles for Non-Partisan Election Observation and Monitoring by Citizen Organizations recognises the right of non-partisan citizen election observation organisations to cooperate with other organisations, both domestic and international, and to receive technical and financial support for the purpose of conducting professional and independent election observation and monitoring activities. Access to such support constitutes a key condition for ensuring the effectiveness, professionalism and sustainability of domestic election observation efforts, in line with applicable legal frameworks.
Open Positions
01. Observer Coordinator for Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE)
Deadline: April 14, 2026 | Location: Addis Ababa
IV. Functions / Key Results Expected
Under the guidance of the ECES Representative in Ethiopia, the Observer Coordinator will be entrusted with the following specific responsibilities along with the corresponding deliverables:
Key Responsibilities
The Observer Coordinator is responsible for the operational planning, coordination, and management of election observers (LTOs and STOs), ensuring effective deployment, reporting, and communication between field teams and the Core Team.
1-Operational Coordination of Observers
Plan and coordinate the deployment of LTOs and STOs across regions.
Ensure timely recruitment, accreditation, and placement of observers
Maintain updated deployment plans, observer databases, and communication structures.
2-Liaison Between Field and Core Team
Serve as the main coordination link between:
1-Field observers (LTOs/STOs)
2-Core Team experts (legal, political, data, operations)
Ensure smooth information flow and timely escalation of critical issues.
3-Observer Training and Capacity Building
Coordinate the development and delivery of training for LTOs and STOs.
Ensure training materials align with:
1-Observation methodology
2-Electoral legal framework
3-Code of conduct and ethics
Supervise pre-deployment briefings and refresher sessions.
4-Data Collection and Reporting
Oversee implementation of data collection tools and reporting templates.
Ensure timely submission of observer reports and checklists.
Support verification and consolidation of field data for analysis.
5- Logistics and Field Support
Coordinate logistical arrangements for observers (travel, accommodation, materials).
Ensure observers receive necessary accreditation and documentation.
Provide real-time support to field teams during deployment.
6-Stakeholder Coordination (Operational Level)
Support engagement with:
1. Regional election officials
2. Local authorities
3. Civil society partners
Facilitate coordination with other observation missions where relevant.
7-Risk Monitoring and Incident Management
Monitor security and operational risks affecting observer deployment.
Ensure rapid reporting and response to incidents in the field.
Coordinate contingency measures with the Core Team.
2. Deliverables
Observer deployment plan (LTO/STO)
Training materials and training reports
Daily/weekly operational updates
Consolidated field reporting inputs
Post-deployment operational report
3. Duration
The assignment covers the full electoral cycle*, including:
Pre-election phase
Election day
Immediate post-election period *The full electoral cycle included the 7th General election (possibility of staggered elections over several months/years), possible bi-elections, referendum and local elections.
C.VALUES
Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of ECES
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age sensitivity and adaptability.
Demonstrates integrity by modelling ECES’ values and ethical standards.
Duration: 24 months
Recruitment Qualifications
Education:
A master’s degree in law or electoral policy or Human Rights;
Experience/competencies: Professional Experienc
At least 5–7 years of relevant experience in:
1. Election observation or ;
2. Governance and civil society programs or;
3. Project and field coordination ;
4. Minimum 3 years working experience for CECOE in position of coordination/team management would be an asset
1. Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E)
2. Data collection and reporting systems
3. Electoral grievance analysis and human rights frameworks
Coordination and Management Skills
Demonstrated ability to coordinate large, decentralized teams
Strong organizational and logistical planning skills
Ability to work under pressure and manage tight timelines
Language Requirements:
Excellent working-level proficiency in Amharic and English, both written and spoken.
Required Skills
Human Rights Law, International Law,
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants can apply through the following email address: recruitment@eces.eu.
The interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis and the deadline for application is 14th April COB.
02. Finance officer for Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE)
Deadline: April 14, 2026 | Location: Addis Ababa
IV. Functions / Key Results Expected
Under the guidance of the ECES Representative in Ethiopia, the Finance officer will be entrusted with the following specific responsibilities along with the corresponding deliverables:
Key Responsibilities
The Finance Officer supports the Finance and Administration Manager in the day-to-day financial operations, accounting, and administrative support of the mission, ensuring accurate financial records, compliance, and timely processing of transactions.
1-Financial Transactions and Bookkeeping
Process financial transactions including payments, advances, and reimbursements.
Maintain accurate bookkeeping records using accounting software.
Ensure all financial documents are properly recorded and archived.
2-Cash and Advance Management
Manage petty cash and ensure proper documentation of all expenditures.
Process and monitor staff advances and ensure timely liquidation
Support cash flow tracking and expense monitoring.
3-Budget Support and Expense Tracking
Assist in tracking project expenditures against approved budgets
Support preparation of financial summaries and budget reports.
Ensure expenditures comply with financial policies and donor requirements.
Support financial and logistical arrangements for:
1-Observer trainings 2-Deployment of LTOs and STOs 3-Workshops, meetings, and conferences
Coordinate with operations teams to ensure timely disbursement of funds.
7-Data Management and Reporting
Maintain financial databases and digital filing systems.
Support preparation of financial reports and reconciliations.
Ensure completeness and accuracy of financial data.
8-Administrative Support
Support office administration, including inventory and asset management.
Assist in preparation of financial and administrative reports.
Ensure proper filing and documentation systems are maintained.
Deliverables
Updated financial records and bookkeeping systems
Petty cash and advance tracking reports
Monthly financial summaries and supporting documentation
Tax declarations and compliance records
Procurement and financial documentation files
Contribution to final financial report
Duration
The assignment covers the full electoral cycle*, including:
Pre-election phase
Election day
Immediate post-election period
The full electoral cycle included the 7th General election (possibility of staggered elections over several months/years), possible bi-elections, referendum and local elections.
C. VALUES
Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of ECES.
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age sensitivity and adaptability.
Demonstrates integrity by modelling ECES’ values and ethical standards.
Recruitment Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance
Experience/competencies:
Professional Experience
At least 3–5 years of relevant experience in:
Accounting and financial operations
NGO or project-based financial management
Administrative and logistical support
Minimum 2 years working experience for CECOE for the department of Finance and Administration would be an asset
1-Technical Skills
Proficiency in:
1. Accounting software (Peachtree, IFMIS)
2. Microsoft Office (Excel, Word)
Experience with:
1. Financial data management systems
2. Digital archiving and reporting tools
2-Organizational Skills
Strong attention to detail and accuracy
Ability to manage multiple financial tasks under tight deadlines
Good organizational and record-keeping skills
3-Other skills
Experience with election observation missions or governance programs
Familiarity with donor-funded project requirements
Knowledge of procurement procedures and compliance systems
Ability to work in fast-paced and high-pressure environment
Language Requirements:
Excellent working-level proficiency in Amharic and English, both written and spoken.
Required Skills
Financial management
Account Management
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants can apply through the following email address: recruitment@eces.eu.
The interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis and the deadline for application is 14th April COB.
03. Chief Observer for Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organization for Elections (CECOE)
Deadline: April 14, 2026 | Location: Addis Ababa
Functions / Key Results Expected
Under the guidance of the ECES Representative in Ethiopia, the Chief Observer will be entrusted with the following specific responsibilities along with the corresponding deliverables:
1. Key Responsibilities
The Chief Observer provides overall strategic leadership, coordination, and public representation of the observation mission, ensuring the credibility, impartiality, and methodological rigor of all observation activities across the electoral cycle
1.1 Strategic Leadership and Oversight
Lead the overall design and implementation of the observation methodology.
Provide strategic guidance to the Core Team, ensuring coherence between LTO and STO deployment.
Ensure adherence to international election observation standards and national legal frameworks.
1.2 Mission Coordination
Oversee coordination between:
Core Team experts (legal, political, operations, data analysis)
Long-Term Observers (pre-election phase)
Short-Term Observers (election day observation)
Supervise deployment plans, reporting systems, and data collection tools.
1.3. Electoral Analysis and Reporting
Guide the analysis of :
Pre-election environment
Campaign period
Election day procedures
Post-election processes
Lead the drafting and validation of:
Preliminary statements
Interim reports
Final comprehensive report
1.4. Stakeholder Engagement
Serve as the primary liaison with:
National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE)
Political parties
Security institutions
Civil society organizations
International partners
Facilitate dialogue to promote electoral integrity and peaceful processes.
1.5 Public Communication and Representation
Act as the official spokesperson of the mission.
Present key findings to media, stakeholders, and the public.
Ensure communication is accurate, impartial, and evidence-based.
1.6 Quality Assurance and Ethics
Ensure all observers comply with:
Code of conduct
Principles of neutrality and independence
Maintain high standards of data integrity and confidentiality.
2. Deliverables
Observation methodology and deployment strategy
Regular internal briefings
Preliminary statement (post-election day)
Final observation report with findings and recommendations
3. Duration
The assignment covers the full electoral cycle*, including:
Pre-election phase
Election day
Immediate post-election period
The full electoral cycle included the 7th General election (possibility of staggered elections over several months/years), possible bi-elections, referendum and local elections.
C. VALUES
Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of ECES.
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age sensitivity and adaptability
Demonstrates integrity by modelling ECES’ values and ethical standards.
Excellent working-level proficiency in Amharic and English, both written and spoken.
Duration: 24 months
CI. Recruitment Qualifications
Education:
A master’s degree in law of electoral policy ;
Experience/competencies:
Professional Experience
Minimum 15 years of relevant experience in:
1. Election observation or;
2. Governance and democracy programs or;
3. Civil society leadership;
4.Minimum 3 years’ experience working in a leadership/management position for CECOE would be an asset
Proven leadership of large-scale election observation missions
Experience coordinating multi-stakeholder electoral initiatives (NEBE, CSOs, international partners)
Strong background in policy analysis, research, and advocacy
Experience in international election observation and peer exchanges
Technical Expertise
Deep knowledge of:
1. Ethiopian electoral legal framework
2. International election observation standards
Expertise in:
1. Methodology design for citizen observation
2. Data-driven election analysis
3. Civic and voter education
Leadership and Management Skills
Demonstrated ability to lead large, decentralized teams
Strong coordination and decision-making skills
Experience managing complex programs and partnerships
Language Requirements:
Requirement Skill
Leadership & Coaching
How To Apply
Interested and qualified applicants can apply through the following email address: recruitment@eces.eu.
The interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis and the deadline for application is 14th April COB.
04. Deputy Observer Coordinator for Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE)
Deadline: April 14, 2026 | Location: Addis Ababa
Functions / Key Results Expected
Under the guidance of the ECES Representative in Ethiopia, the Deputy Observer Coordinator will be entrusted with the following specific responsibilities along with the corresponding deliverables:
Key Responsibilities
The Deputy Observer Coordinator supports the Observer Coordinator in the planning, implementation, and supervision of observer operations, ensuring efficient deployment, data collection, and communication across all levels of the observation mission.
Support to Observer Coordination
Assist in the coordination of LTOs and STOs across regions.
Support the development and execution of observer deployment plans.
Maintain observer databases and tracking systems.
Recruitment, Accreditation, and Deployment
Support recruitment processes for observers in collaboration with regional focal points.
Facilitate accreditation procedures with relevant authorities.
Assist in organizing observer deployment logistics.
Training and Capacity Building
Contribute to the preparation of training materials (manuals, checklists, tools).
Support the delivery of training sessions for LTOs and STOs.
Ensure observers understand reporting tools, methodology, and code of conduct.
Data Management and Reporting
Support the implementation of data collection systems (digital and manual).
Monitor incoming observer reports and ensure completeness and quality.
Assist in data cleaning, validation, and preliminary analysis.
Field Operations and Support
Provide operational support to LTOs and STOs during deployment.
Assist in troubleshooting logistical and technical issues in the field.
Support communication between field teams and the Core Team.
Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (M&E)
Assist in tracking observer performance and operational indicators.
Contribute to evaluation of observation activities and lessons learned.
Support preparation of operational and M&E reports.
Risk and Incident Management
Support monitoring of security and operational risks affecting observers.
Ensure timely reporting of incidents from the field.
Assist in implementing contingency measures.
Administrative and Logistical Support
Assist in organizing meetings, briefings, and coordination sessions.
Support budget tracking and logistical planning.
Ensure proper documentation and filing of observer-related activities
Deliverables
Updated observer database and deployment tracking tools
Training materials and training support reports
Daily/weekly operational updates
Data quality control summaries
Post-election operational and lessons learned report
Duration
The assignment covers the full electoral cycle*, including:
Pre-election phase
Election day
Immediate post-election period
*The full electoral cycle included the 7th General election (possibility of staggered elections over several months/years), possible bi-elections, referendum and local elections.
VALUES
Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of ECES.
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age sensitivity and adaptability.
Demonstrates integrity by modelling ECES’ values and ethical standards.
About You
Qualifications
Education:
A bachelor’s degree in law or electoral policy or Human Rights or governance
Experience/competencies:
Professional Experience
At least 3–5 years of experience in:
Election observation support or coordination
Project coordination and field Operations
Civil society or governance programs
Minimum 2 years’ working experience for CECOE in position of program officer and/or project manager would be an asset
Technical Skills
Knowledge of :
Election observation processes and tools
Data collection and management systems
Proficiency in :
Data analysis tools and reporting platforms
Project management methodologies
Experience with digital data collection tools (e.g., mobile reporting systems)
Organizational and Coordination Skills
Strong logistical and operational coordination skills
Ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines
Attention to detail and problem-solving capacity
Language Requirements:
Excellent working-level proficiency in Amharic and English, both written and spoken.
Required Skills
Data collection and management systems
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants can apply through the following email address: recruitment@eces.eu.
The interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis and the deadline for application is 14th April COB.
05. Finance and Administration Manager for Coalition of Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations for Elections (CECOE)
Deadline: April 14, 2026 | Location: Addis Ababa
Functions / Key Results Expected
Under the guidance of the ECES Representative in Ethiopia, the Finance and Administration Manager will be entrusted with the following specific responsibilities along with the corresponding deliverables:
Key Responsibilities
The Finance and Administration Manager is responsible for the overall financial management, administrative coordination, and human resource support of the observation mission, ensuring compliance with applicable policies, donor requirements, and best practices.
Financial Management and Budget Control
Lead the preparation, consolidation, and monitoring of the mission budget.
Ensure all expenditures comply with approved budgets and financial procedures.
Maintain budget control systems and prepare budget utilization reports.
Accounting and Financial Reporting
Oversee accounting processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with standards.
Prepare periodic financial statements and reports for:
Management
Donors
External stakeholders
Conduct reconciliations and ensure proper documentation of transactions.
Cash and Payment Management
Ensure effective cash flow management and internal controls.
Authorize payments within delegated authority.
Monitor receivables and ensure proper financial tracking.
Compliance and Audit
Ensure compliance with:
Organizational financial policies
Donor regulations (e.g., grant management requirements)
Ethiopian legal and tax frameworks
Coordinate internal and external audits and implement recommendations.
Monitor risk of fraud and ensure preventive controls.
Human Resources and Administration
Oversee HR functions, including:
Recruitment and onboarding of mission staff and observers (in coordination with operations team)
Payroll management
Performance appraisal processes
Ensure proper administrative systems and procedures are in place.
(Aligned with experience managing HR planning, recruitment, and appraisal processes)
Logistics and Operational Support
Oversee administrative and logistical arrangements for:
Core Team
LTOs and STOs deployment
Ensure efficient procurement and resource allocation.
Coordination and Support to Mission Structure
Work closely with:
Chief Observer / Head of Mission
Observer Coordinator and Deputy Coordinator
Core Team experts
Provide financial and administrative guidance to support operational planning.
Policy Development and Systems Strengthening
Ensure implementation of financial and administrative manuals.
Strengthen internal control systems and procedures.
Contribute to organizational capacity building in finance and administration.
Deliverables
Approved mission budget and financial plan
Monthly/quarterly financial reports
Budget utilization and variance reports
Audit reports and compliance documentation
HR and administrative reports
Final financial report for the observation mission
Duration
The assignment covers the full electoral cycle*, including:
Pre-election phase
Election day
Immediate post-election period
*The full electoral cycle included the 7th General election (possibility of staggered elections over several months/years), possible bi-elections, referendum and local elections.
VALUES
Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of ECES.
Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age sensitivity and adaptability.
Demonstrates integrity by modelling ECES’ values and ethical standards.
About You
Qualifications
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
Experience/competencies:
Professional Experience
Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in:
Financial management
Accounting and auditing
Administration and HR management
Minimum 3 years working experience for CECOE in position of Finance/Admin officer/manager would be an asset
Technical Skills
Strong knowledge of:
Accounting systems and financial reporting standards
Budgeting and financial planning
Donor compliance (e.g., EU PRAG)
Proficiency in:
Accounting software (e.g., Peachtree, Sun System)
Microsoft Office tools
Management and Leadership Skills
Strong leadership and team management capacity
Ability to manage multiple financial streams and operational priorities
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Desirable Competencies
Experience with election observation missions or governance programs
Knowledge of Ethiopian financial regulations and CSO frameworks
Experience working with international donors and partners
High level of integrity and attention to detail
Language Requirements:
Excellent working-level proficiency in Amharic and English, both written and spoken.
Required Skills
Financial management
How to Apply
Interested and qualified applicants can apply through the following email address: recruitment@eces.eu.
The interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis and the deadline for application is 14th April COB.