Green Livelihoods (GL) is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced Human Resource & Administration Officer to support the effective management of the organisation’s human resources and administration functions.
Job Summary
- Employer: Green Livelihoods (GL)
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Human Resources
- Closing Date: 2026-10-05
Key Responsibilities
- Maintaining accurate and up-to-date personnel records and staff files.
- Supporting recruitment, onboarding, orientation and separation of staff.
- Preparing and maintaining employment contracts, staff records and HR documentation.
- Supporting staff attendance, leave administration and other personnel matters.
- Assisting with payroll-related HR information and staff benefits administration.
- Coordinating staff welfare, insurance/medical aid and other employee-related matters.
- Supporting performance management and staff appraisal processes.
- Ensuring compliance with organisational HR policies, procedures and applicable labour requirements.
- Providing general administrative support to management and staff.
- Maintaining office administrative records and coordinating office-related services.
- Supporting procurement and logistical arrangements for office operations when required.
- Organising meetings and staff activities and maintaining appropriate administrative records.
- Assisting in the development, review and implementation of HR and administrative policies and procedures.
- Performing any other duties reasonably assigned by Management.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Public Administration or a related field.
- At least three (3) years’ relevant experience in human resources and administration, preferably within an NGO or similar organisation.
- Good knowledge of Malawi labour laws and HR practices.
- Experience in maintaining personnel records and administering staff benefits.
- Good understanding of recruitment, employee relations and performance management.
- Strong organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.
- Good computer skills, particularly Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to work independently, maintain confidentiality and meet deadlines.
- High level of integrity, professionalism and attention to detail.
How to Apply
Apply by email: hr@greenlivelihoods.org
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become a Human Resource & Administration Officer in Malawi?
Most employers require a Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, or Public Administration from a recognized institution like MIM or UNIMA. Professional certifications such as those from the Malawi Institute of Management (MIM) or IPMZ membership strengthen your profile. Prior experience in HR or administration roles, even as an intern, is highly valued by Malawian employers.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of this role in a Malawian organization?
You will handle recruitment and onboarding of staff, maintain employee records, and ensure compliance with Malawi's Employment Act and labor regulations. Daily tasks include processing leave applications, managing payroll inputs, coordinating staff training, and supporting senior management with administrative duties. You also serve as the link between employees and management on workplace issues.
How does the local work culture in Malawi affect this HR role?
Malawian workplaces value respect for hierarchy and often blend formal procedures with relationship-building, so diplomacy and patience are essential when handling disputes. Punctuality is expected, though flexibility around family and community obligations is common, especially in NGOs like Green Livelihoods. Understanding local languages and cultural norms helps you communicate effectively with diverse staff across urban and rural offices.
What career progression opportunities exist for HR professionals in Malawi?
With experience, you can advance to Senior HR Officer, HR Manager, or Director of Administration roles within larger NGOs, government departments, or private companies. Specializing in areas like labor law compliance, organizational development, or donor-funded project management opens doors to regional or international opportunities. Continuous professional development through MIM or regional HR bodies accelerates your growth.
What benefits should I expect in a typical Malawian HR and Administration Officer position?
Standard benefits usually include annual leave as per the Employment Act, medical aid or health insurance, and pension contributions through NICO or other approved schemes. NGOs and international organizations often offer additional benefits like housing allowances, transport, or professional development funding. Always review your contract carefully, as benefit packages vary significantly between local employers and donor-funded projects.
How do I apply for HR roles in Malawi, and what do employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through job portals like MyJobo, LinkedIn, or directly via organization websites, ensuring your CV highlights relevant HR software skills and knowledge of Malawian labor law. Employers prioritize candidates with strong communication skills, integrity, and demonstrated experience handling confidential information. Prepare for practical assessments and panel interviews, which are standard practice in Malawian recruitment processes.