Furnishings Assistant – British High Commission in Nairobi – Salary: KES 83,901.06 (monthly)

Job Title: Furnishings Assistant

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Type: Fixed Term

Salary: KES 83,901.06 (monthly)

Start Date: April 22, 2024

Application Deadline: March 18, 2024

Job Summary:

Are you a proactive team player with a keen eye for detail? The British Government is seeking a dedicated Furnishings Assistant to join our team at the British High Commission in Nairobi. As a Furnishings Assistant, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safe delivery, collection, and maintenance of furniture and accessories within our office and residential estate. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the operational efficiency of our mission while working in a dynamic and diverse environment.

Responsibilities:

1. Delivery and Setup: Coordinate the delivery and setup of furniture and stationary within the British High Commission office, including the arrangement of meeting rooms according to internal requests.
2. Transportation: Periodically drive the furniture canter and/or minibus to transport goods to BHC properties around Nairobi, ensuring the safe and secure transit of items.
3. Property Maintenance: Assist in the delivery, moving, arranging, and cleaning of furniture for official residential properties, adhering to safety protocols and recording all transactions accurately.
4. Cleaning and Upkeep: Deep clean and furnish properties following Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office guidelines, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety at all times.
5. Inventory Management: Maintain accurate records of inventory movement, including barcoding items and recording delivery and removal notes as necessary.
6. Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with the Furnishings Team and other mission teams, providing support with heavy lifting and other tasks as required.
7. Deputizing: Act as a backup for the Furnishings Team Leader during periods of absence, ensuring continuity of operations and maintaining service levels.
8. General Assistance: Assist with additional furnishings duties and tasks as directed by supervisors, contributing to the overall efficiency of the team.

Qualifications and Experience:

• KCSE Certificate
• Good team player skills
• Attention to detail and initiative
• Proficient written and spoken English
• Capability for heavy lifting (up to 45Kg)

Desirable Skills:

• Prior experience in a warehouse or store room
• Valid BCE Driving Licence with 3 years’ experience driving a canter

Required Behaviours:

• Making Effective Decisions
• Managing a Quality Service
• Delivering at Pace
• Working Together

Working Hours and Additional Information:

• Working Hours: 44 hours per week, Monday to Thursday 0700-1630, Friday 0700-1530
• Duration of Post: 4 months
• Region: Africa
• Country/Territory: Kenya
• Type of Post: British High Commission

Application Process:

Please complete the application form accurately as submitted information will be used during screening. The British High Commission does not request any payment or fees to apply for a position. Applicants must have the right to live and work in Kenya without the need for a work permit.

Civil Service Success Profiles:

Information about the Civil Service Success Profiles can be found here.

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• GRP 2: CLICK HERE TO JOIN

TELEGRAM CHANNEL

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Note to Applicants:

Please ensure applications are submitted in English through the  site.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Furnishings Assistant:

1. Tailor Your Application: Customize your application to highlight relevant experience and skills related to furnishings and property maintenance.
2. Highlight Teamwork: Emphasize your ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, as this role requires close coordination with colleagues.
3. Demonstrate Attention to Detail: Showcase instances where your attention to detail and initiative have contributed to successful outcomes in previous roles.
4. Provide Specific Examples: Use concrete examples to illustrate your capabilities, such as instances where you successfully managed inventory or assisted with property maintenance.
5. Showcase Language Proficiency: As proficiency in written and spoken English is essential, provide evidence of your language skills through clear communication in your application.
6. Address Desirable Skills: If you possess any of the desirable skills listed, such as prior warehouse experience or a valid driving license, ensure these are highlighted in your application.
7. Follow Application Instructions: Pay close attention to application deadlines and instructions, ensuring all required information is provided accurately.
8. Be Professional: Maintain a professional tone and format throughout your application, showcasing your professionalism and commitment to the role.
9. Research the Organization: Familiarize yourself with the mission and values of the British High Commission to demonstrate your alignment with their objectives.
10. Proofread Your Application: Before submission, thoroughly review your application for any errors or inconsistencies to present yourself in the best possible light.

Sample Cover Letter for a Furnishings Assistant:

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Date]

[Hiring Manager’s Name]

British High Commission

[Nairobi Address]

Nairobi, Kenya

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Furnishings Assistant position at the British High Commission in Nairobi, as advertised. With a strong background in [relevant experience/skills], I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team and support the mission’s objectives.

In my previous role at [Previous Company/Organization], I gained valuable experience in [specific tasks/responsibilities related to furnishings and property maintenance]. My attention to detail and proactive approach allowed me to [specific achievement or contribution], demonstrating my capability to excel in similar roles.

I am particularly drawn to this opportunity at the British High Commission due to [specific reason related to the organization’s mission or values]. I am excited about the prospect of contributing to the efficient operation of the mission while working in a dynamic and diverse environment.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of your team. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the success of the British High Commission in Nairobi.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the working hours for this position? The working hours for the Furnishings Assistant position are 44 hours per week, from Monday to Thursday 0700-1630 and Friday 0700-1530.

2. Is prior experience required for this role? While prior experience in a warehouse or store room is desirable, it is not mandatory. However, applicants should possess the necessary qualifications and skills outlined in the job description.

3. Are there opportunities for career advancement within the organization? Career advancement opportunities within the organization may be available based on performance and individual development goals. Employees are encouraged to discuss career progression with their supervisors.

4. What is the duration of the fixed-term contract? The duration of the Furnishings Assistant position is four months, with the possibility of extension based on operational needs and performance.

5. How should I apply for the position? Applicants should complete the application form in full on the official tal.net site. Please ensure all information provided is accurate, as changes cannot be made once submitted.

6. What benefits are offered with this position? In addition to the monthly salary, employees may be eligible for benefits such as medical insurance and pension contributions, subject to local employment laws and regulations.

7. Will training be provided for this role? Training and orientation will be provided to familiarize successful candidates with job responsibilities, safety procedures, and organizational policies.

8. Is there room for flexibility in the working schedule? While the working hours are fixed, the organization may offer flexibility in scheduling based on operational requirements and individual needs.

9. Are there opportunities for on-the-job learning and development? Employees are encouraged to pursue continuous learning and development opportunities, including on-the-job training, workshops, and professional development courses.

10. How will applicants be notified of their application status? Applicants can log into their profile on the application system to review the status of their application. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment.

Possible Furnishings Assistant Interview Questions With Answers:

1. Question: Can you describe your experience with furniture delivery and setup? Answer: In my previous role, I was responsible for coordinating the delivery and setup of furniture for various properties. I ensured timely and accurate placement of furniture according to specifications, contributing to smooth operations.
2. Question: How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple responsibilities? Answer: I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, ensuring that critical activities are addressed promptly while maintaining attention to detail in all aspects of my work.
3. Question: How do you handle situations where items are damaged during transportation? Answer: In the event of damage, I follow established procedures for documenting and reporting incidents, taking immediate steps to address the issue and minimize disruption to operations.
4. Question: Can you provide an example of a time when you demonstrated effective teamwork? Answer: In a previous project, I collaborated closely with team members to complete a large-scale furniture setup within a tight deadline. Through clear communication and coordination, we successfully achieved our objectives.
5. Question: How do you ensure compliance with safety procedures while performing heavy lifting tasks? Answer: I adhere strictly to safety protocols and guidelines, including proper lifting techniques and the use of personal protective equipment, to mitigate the risk of injury and ensure a safe working environment.
6. Question: How do you handle unexpected challenges or changes in work priorities? Answer: I remain adaptable and resourceful in responding to unexpected challenges, seeking creative solutions and consulting with colleagues or supervisors as needed to address changes in priorities effectively.
7. Question: What motivated you to apply for this position at the British High Commission? Answer: I am drawn to the opportunity to contribute to the mission’s objectives and work alongside a diverse team dedicated to promoting equality and enhancing organizational capability.
8. Question: How do you maintain accuracy and attention to detail in inventory management tasks? Answer: I utilize meticulous record-keeping practices and regularly conduct inventory checks to ensure accuracy and accountability, minimizing errors and discrepancies in inventory management.
9. Question: Can you describe a time when you successfully resolved a customer service issue? Answer: In a previous role, I addressed a customer service issue promptly and professionally, demonstrating empathy and effective communication to resolve the issue to the customer’s satisfaction.
10. Question: How do you stay organized and manage time effectively in a fast-paced work environment? Answer: I utilize time management techniques such as prioritization, delegation, and setting realistic goals to stay organized and focused on achieving objectives, even in high-pressure situations.

We wish you the best of luck in your application process. The British Government is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace environment. As an equal employer, we do not charge any application or recruitment fees, ensuring fair and accessible opportunities for all applicants.

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