Human Resources Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and it aims to provide international protection and assistance to those in need, while also advocating for durable solutions to their plight.

Job Overview:
The Human Resources Associate plays a crucial role in supporting the UNHCR’s People Strategy and the implementation of the 2018 independent Human Resources review. This position is integral to transforming the Division of Human Resources (DHR) from a transactional model to a strategic partner for field operations and senior management. The Human Resources Associate is responsible for ensuring that the right personnel are in place to effectively protect and respond to persons of concern. This includes attracting, retaining, and developing a talented and diverse workforce, while fostering a culture of excellence, respect, and well-being. The incumbent will provide operational support in various HR functions, including workforce planning, talent acquisition, and policy implementation, while maintaining confidentiality and employee confidence. The role requires a proactive approach to HR management and the ability to work independently while receiving guidance from supervisors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Human Resources Associate include implementing HR operational activities to ensure timely provision of HR solutions, administering recruitment, assignment, and separation of local staff, updating personnel records, assisting with recruitment procedures, contributing to workforce planning, and providing a customer service-oriented HR culture. The incumbent will participate in the recruitment of local staff, organize outreach campaigns, track recruitment activities, advise staff on their rights and benefits, assist in onboarding and offboarding processes, and implement HR initiatives that support organizational culture change. Additionally, the Human Resources Associate will assist in security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and medical evacuations, administer medical insurance plans, and manage risks in the area of responsibility. The role may also involve maintaining relationships with various units within DHR and supervising General Service staff.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Human Resources Associate position include a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include experience working in Human Resources, knowledge of HR policies and systems, and familiarity with HR information technology systems. Desirable qualifications include experience working with the United Nations and in a multicultural setting. The position also requires functional skills such as knowledge of UN/UNHCR administrative rules, computer literacy, talent development, local mass recruitment, and employee relationship management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Office Management, Human Resources Management, or a related field. Relevant certifications in these areas are also considered essential for the role.

Experience:
Candidates for the Human Resources Associate position should have at least three years of relevant experience in Human Resources for those with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Experience in HR operational support, recruitment, and employee relations is essential, along with a demonstrated ability to work in a diverse and dynamic environment. Familiarity with HR information systems and tools is also highly desirable, as is experience in supporting managers with staff conflicts and well-being initiatives.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language is required. Additional language skills, particularly in French, are considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a General Service role at the GS-6 grade level and is a temporary assignment with a target start date of June 1, 2026, and an end date of August 15, 202

• The role is family-type and is based in Dakar, Senegal. The incumbent may be required to undertake field missions to other operations in West and Central Africa (OOWCA). The selection process will include a written test and a competency-based interview. The position does not require functional clearance, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive work environment.