Assistant Communications 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 human rights are respected and upheld in various countries, including Ukraine, where it operates through the Human Rights Monitoring Mission. The organization aims to provide a platform for dialogue and cooperation among nations to address human rights violations and promote accountability. The OHCHR employs a diverse team of professionals dedicated to advancing human rights standards and practices, and it operates in multiple countries worldwide, focusing on various human rights issues.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Communications Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the communication strategy of the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine (HRMMU). This position involves producing and assisting in the creation of various communication materials aimed at promoting human rights and increasing the visibility of HRMMU's work. The incumbent will be responsible for maintaining and updating content on official websites and social media platforms, ensuring that information is current and engaging. Additionally, the role requires monitoring social media trends and advising on effective campaigns and digital products. The Assistant Communications Officer will also contribute to organizing public events, both online and offline, to raise awareness about human rights issues, including the launch of public reports and observance of significant days like Human Rights Day. Collaboration with other UN communication officers is essential to ensure a unified approach to digital communications campaigns that highlight human rights perspectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Communications Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the design and implementation of the communication strategy for HRMMU.
• Producing communication materials such as social media posts, press releases, infographics, and videos.
• Leading the maintenance and updating of content on HRMMU's official websites and social media channels.
• Monitoring and analyzing social media trends to inform communication strategies.
• Contributing to the organization of public events related to human rights.
• Collaborating with other UN communication officers to develop joint campaigns.
• Maintaining a stock of communication products and visibility materials.
• Performing other communication-related functions and special duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate professionalism in their work, showcasing knowledge of strategic communications principles and practices. They should be able to develop and implement effective communication strategies and tailor messages for diverse audiences. The role requires strong research skills, including systematic data collection and analysis, as well as familiarity with current digital media platforms. Candidates should also exhibit the ability to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making processes. A commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in communication, journalism, international relations, media relations, public information, marketing, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in the aforementioned areas combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in communications, international relations, public information, or other relevant fields is required for candidates with a first-level university degree. Those with an advanced university degree in communication or related fields do not require prior experience. Experience in drafting social media publications, press releases, and human-centered stories is essential. Familiarity with graphic design and video editing tools, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Lightroom, and Premiere Pro, is desirable. Experience within the United Nations system or similar international organizations is also advantageous.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with Ukrainian and Russian also being mandatory. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for each language according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for six months, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds. Candidates must be nationals of Ukraine to apply for this National Professional Officer category position. Current staff members holding a fixed-term, permanent, or continuing appointment may apply for temporary positions at one level above their current grade. The selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.