Human Resources Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Department of Operational Support (DOS) was established to provide comprehensive operational support, advisory services, and solutions to various entities across the United Nations Secretariat. This includes departments, offices away from headquarters, peace operations, tribunals, and regional commissions. The Human Resources Services Division (HRSD) within DOS focuses on delivering dedicated human resources services to client entities, managing rosters, organizing testing and examinations, and providing operational support and advisory services. The HRSD aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of human resources management across the UN Secretariat.

Job Overview:
The Human Resources Officer position is situated within the Assessment and Innovation Section (AIS) of the Human Resources Staffing Service (HRSS) in the HRSD. The role involves developing and implementing new human resources policies and practices to adapt to the evolving needs of the organization. The officer will monitor the implementation of these policies, prepare reports, and lead special human resources projects. A significant aspect of the role includes overseeing the planning and administration of competitive examinations and assessments related to recruitment, ensuring quality assurance in examination practices, and providing guidance on assessment methods. The officer will also be responsible for identifying and implementing testing tools and improving examination processes, thereby contributing to the overall talent acquisition strategy of the UN.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Resources Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: developing and implementing human resources policies and procedures; monitoring adherence to these policies; preparing reports and leading special projects; overseeing competitive examinations and assessments; developing assessment standards and tools; providing quality assurance for examination practices; advising on job-specific assessment methods; reviewing and improving examination processes; supervising the analysis of test items; managing recruitment processes including job openings and candidate selection; advising on remuneration for consultants; representing the organization in discussions with senior officials; identifying staff development needs; designing training programs; and monitoring staff welfare and disciplinary matters. The officer will also advocate for policy changes and prepare position papers on examination-related issues.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of human resources policies and practices, with the ability to apply them effectively in an organizational context. They should have expert knowledge of talent acquisition processes, particularly in assessments, and be capable of providing operational support to hiring teams. The role requires the ability to develop various assessment items and ensure quality assurance for assessments. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, planning and organizing skills, and technological awareness, as well as a commitment to gender perspectives and diversity in the workplace.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in Human Resources Management, Psychology, Organizational Development, Public Administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human resources management or a related area. Experience in talent acquisition and recruitment is essential, along with familiarity with talent assessment methods and tools. Candidates should also have experience in project management involving multiple stakeholders and using online platforms for assessments. Managing assessment contracts with vendors is considered desirable.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary job opening for a duration of 364 days. If the selected candidate is a current staff member of the United Nations Secretariat, the selection will be treated as a temporary assignment. The position may be limited to internal candidates who have been recruited through a competitive examination. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.