Administrative Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that the fundamental freedoms and rights of individuals are upheld and respected. The organization operates in various countries, including Bangladesh, where it has a mission office in Dhaka. The OHCHR is committed to addressing human rights violations and promoting accountability, equality, and justice. It employs a diverse workforce dedicated to advancing human rights and fostering a culture of respect and dignity for all individuals.

Job Overview:
The Administrative Assistant position at the OHCHR in Dhaka involves a wide range of administrative functions that support the mission's operations. The role is crucial for ensuring the smooth functioning of human resources management, budget and finance, and general administration within the office. The Administrative Assistant will be responsible for initiating and processing various human resource activities, maintaining administrative data, and providing guidance to staff regarding administrative procedures. Additionally, the position requires monitoring budget expenditures, preparing financial reports, and coordinating travel arrangements for staff. The Administrative Assistant will also assist in contract administration and ensure compliance with UN rules and regulations. This role demands a high level of professionalism, teamwork, and organizational skills to effectively manage multiple tasks and contribute to the overall success of the mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Administrative Assistant will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: managing human resources activities such as recruitment, placement, and performance appraisal; maintaining administrative records and data; reviewing entitlements-related claims; advising staff on administrative procedures; monitoring budget expenditures and preparing financial reports; coordinating travel arrangements for staff; drafting correspondence; maintaining up-to-date files; liaising with service units; assisting with data collection and analysis; and supporting the administration of contracts with external service providers. The role also involves preparing statistical tables, ensuring compliance with UN regulations, and assisting with the organization of seminars and conferences. The Administrative Assistant will play a key role in facilitating communication and collaboration within the office and with external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree can reduce the required work experience from five years to three years. The position requires a minimum of five years of experience in administrative services, finance, accounting, audit, human resources, or a related area. Experience within the United Nations Common system or a similar international organization is desirable, as is familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as Umoja. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates with a first-level university degree will be given preference, as this qualification reduces the required years of relevant experience. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training in administrative services, finance, human resources, or a related field, which would provide the necessary knowledge and skills for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in administrative services, finance, accounting, audit, human resources, or a related area. For candidates with a first-level university degree, the required experience is reduced to three years. Experience working within the United Nations system or a similar international organization is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the specific administrative and operational procedures of such entities. Additionally, experience using an ERP system like Umoja is considered an asset, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate complex administrative processes effectively.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also recognized as a working language of the United Nations, and while it is not mandatory for this position, proficiency in French may be considered an advantage. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, as it is essential for performing the duties of the Administrative Assistant and collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in Bangladesh. The appointment may be extended based on the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. Candidates selected from outside the duty station will be responsible for their relocation expenses. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits that are exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women and underrepresented groups. The organization emphasizes the importance of maintaining high standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its recruitment process.