Human Rights Officer

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 rights of individuals are respected and upheld, providing support to various countries in their efforts to improve human rights conditions. The organization operates in numerous countries, focusing on various human rights issues, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to the mission of promoting human dignity and justice. The OHCHR is committed to the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and the rule of law, and it engages with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to advance human rights agendas.

Job Overview:
The Human Rights Officer position is crucial for the OHCHR's operations, particularly in the context of the Venezuela Team. This role involves a variety of responsibilities that encompass human resource management, budget and finance, and general administration. The officer will be expected to undertake actions related to the administration of human resource activities, ensuring compliance with UN rules and procedures. This includes recruitment, placement, performance appraisal, and training of staff members. Additionally, the officer will assist in developing the unit's work program and budget, analyzing inputs, and formulating resource allocations. The position requires a proactive approach to monitoring budgets and ensuring effective procurement processes to support office operations. The Human Rights Officer will also provide logistical and administrative support to office activities and field missions, making this role integral to the overall functioning of the OHCHR in Panama City.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Rights Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to:

• Human Resource Management: Overseeing recruitment, placement, promotion, and performance appraisal processes; ensuring adherence to UN regulations; providing information on conditions of service and staffing needs.
• Budget and Finance: Assisting in the development of the unit's work program and budget; monitoring budget allocations; supporting financial database implementation; preparing financial reports and proposals for new activities.
• General Administration: Performing administrative duties such as managing operational travel programs, monitoring accounts, and providing logistical support for field missions.
• Ensuring effective procurement processes and maintaining office technology and equipment.
• Conducting data collection and analysis to support decision-making processes within the unit.
• Collaborating with other teams and departments to ensure alignment with OHCHR's goals and objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted. The position requires a strong understanding of human resource management, finance, and administrative processes, as well as familiarity with UN rules and regulations. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as business administration, public administration, finance, accounting, or law. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree), they must also have two additional years of relevant work experience to qualify for the position. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of human rights work and the administrative functions within the OHCHR.

Experience:
Candidates are expected to have a minimum of two years of experience in administration, finance, accounting, or human resources management for those holding a first-level university degree. No prior experience is required for candidates with an advanced university degree. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, such as Umoja or Inspira, is desirable, as is experience working within the United Nations Common System or similar international organizations. This experience is critical for effectively navigating the administrative and financial aspects of the role.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Spanish is required, with a minimum UN Level III proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for both languages. Knowledge of French is considered an asset but is not mandatory. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is essential for collaboration within the UN system and for engaging with diverse stakeholders in the field of human rights.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for six months, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of funds. Candidates must be nationals of Panama, as this is a National Professional Officer category position. The role is classified as temporary, and applicants should be aware that it does not guarantee future employment within the UN system. The United Nations emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its recruitment process and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The organization does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.