Finance Assistant (Budgeting)

About WorldFish  

WorldFish is an international research organization working to transform aquatic food systems to reduce hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. It collaborates with international, regional, and national partners to co-develop and deliver scientific innovations, evidence for policy and knowledge to enable equitable and inclusive impact for millions who depend on fish and other aquatic foods for their livelihoods and nutrition. Our work in countries advances progress on multiple 2030 Sustainable Development Goals through science and innovation, with a vision of healthy people, healthy planet and shared prosperity.   

About Position

To support the Budget & Reporting team in budgeting, forecasting, cost center management, proposal costing, FTE planning, Timesheet management and financial reporting. The role focuses on ensuring accurate, timely, and policy-compliant financial information to support global and country offices, projects and Business Development activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in annual budgets and periodic forecasts for cost centers and projects.
• Assist in maintain, upload, monitor, and report cost center budgets, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Assist in preparing Center-level financial reports and finance templates for management and internal stakeholders.
• Assist in supporting the proposal costing, ensuring all relevant cost elements are included.
• Provide timely financial inputs and supporting information for project proposals.
• Assist with FTE planning and timesheet-related activities to support budgeting and reporting requirements.
• Assist in maintaining and updating budgeting and reporting guidelines, manuals, and procedures.
• Perform other ad-hoc duties to support the Budget & Reporting team, as required.

This job might be for you if you have the below skills and qualifications:  

• Diploma or Degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.
• Prior internship or entry-level experience in finance or reporting is an advantage.
• Ability to manage relationships and work collaboratively with a broad range of stakeholders in a multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary environment.
• Teamwork - demonstrates experience working collaboratively across teams in a cross-functional, matrixed work environment.
• Good communication skills, particularly written English.
• Excellent analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Good proficiency in the use of MS Windows-based software packages, especially MS Excel.
• Working knowledge with reputable ERP systems such as Oracle and SAP.

Desirable Skills

• Ability to work under pressure and adhere to deadlines with minimum supervision.
• Experience in ERP systems (Agresso preferred).
• Familiar with non-profit financial accounting, planning and budgeting.

This is a 12-month temporary position with salary offer commensurate to the position level. WorldFish offers a competitive remuneration package inclusive of comprehensive benefits including (but not limited to) paid annual leave, insurance coverage for staff, and pension/provident fund contribution.  Due to the high volume of applicants for WorldFish positions, we appreciate all interest, but only shortlisted candidates will be notified. 

How to Apply

Your application must include:

• A copy of your curriculum vitae,
• A cover letter which addresses key requirements stated above; and
• Contact information of three professional referees who may be contacted if you are short-listed for the position.

To be considered, applications must be submitted by no later than 23:59 (MYT), 15 February 2026.

Location: The post holder will be based in Penang, Malaysia

Our Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

Over 40% of WorldFish staff is women with some 30 nationalities represented and contributing to its dynamic multicultural work environment. WorldFish is committed to promoting a work environment where diversity and inclusion are valued and we seek to have gender balance in the organization. We aim to also seek balance across other diversity dimensions.

People in WorldFish are treated equally irrespective of gender, ethnicity/race, national or social origin, disability, religion, political affiliation, age, family size, marital status or any other form of personal identity.

 We are an equal opportunities employer and strongly encourage qualified women and men from developing nations to apply.