Human Resources 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 operates in 96 countries, including those in volatile, conflict, and post-conflict environments. The organization is committed to ensuring that human rights are upheld and respected, and it works with various stakeholders to implement human rights policies and practices. The OHCHR employs a large team of HR Partners to manage its global workforce effectively.

Job Overview:
The Human Resources Officer position is crucial for the OHCHR, focusing on the development and implementation of human resources policies and practices that align with the organization's evolving needs. The role involves monitoring the implementation of these policies, preparing reports, and leading special HR projects. The officer will also play a significant role in managing the transition to centralized HR services and will be the primary contact for managing contract decommissioning processes. This position requires a proactive approach to recruitment, staff development, and career support, ensuring that the HR services provided are effective and responsive to the needs of the organization and its staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Human Resources Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including developing and implementing new HR policies, monitoring existing policies, preparing reports, and leading special HR projects. The officer will manage recruitment processes, including preparing job offers and participating in task forces to identify and resolve HR issues. Additionally, the officer will advise on entitlements and remuneration, represent the organization in discussions with senior officials, and oversee staff development programs. The role also includes advising staff on their rights and responsibilities, conducting research for policy papers, and analyzing data to identify trends that inform decision-making.

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. The role requires excellent analytical skills, the ability to formulate opinions and recommendations, and a commitment to professional integrity. The candidate should demonstrate a strong sense of accountability, taking ownership of responsibilities and delivering outputs within established standards. Client orientation is also essential, as the officer will need to establish productive partnerships with clients and anticipate their needs.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in human resources management, business or public administration, social sciences, education, 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:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human resources management, administration, or a related area is required. Candidates should have at least three years of experience in delivering HR services in complex and volatile environments, as well as two years of experience managing HR operations for clients in multiple field locations, including hardship areas. Additionally, one year of experience leading a team of HR Partners is required, along with experience in delivering ERP training.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in the same areas. Proficiency in both languages is beneficial for effective communication within the UN Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
This position is available for an initial period of one year and is subject to the availability of funding. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process adheres to strict standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, with a focus on geographic diversity. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.