Payroll Operations Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 194

• Its primary mission is to provide assistance and protection to approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees across Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. UNRWA aims to help these refugees achieve their full potential in human development while awaiting a just resolution to their plight. The agency operates the largest UN operation in the Middle East, employing over 30,000 staff members and is funded almost entirely through voluntary contributions from UN member states, regional bodies, business foundations, and individual donors. UNRWA's services include education, healthcare, relief and social services, camp infrastructure improvement, microfinance, and emergency assistance. The organization is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of one of the most vulnerable communities in the world, and it seeks individuals who share this commitment to join its mission.

Job Overview:
The Payroll Operations Manager is responsible for leading and overseeing the comprehensive management of payroll operations across the agency. This includes handling payroll for various staff categories such as Area Staff, International Staff, Limited Duration Contracts, Daily Paid, and Consultants. The incumbent will ensure that payroll processes are accurate, compliant, timely, and operationally continuous. The role also involves designing and enhancing payroll systems, managing process automation initiatives, and aligning these with organizational requirements and digital transformation objectives. The Payroll Operations Manager will serve as a key liaison between Human Resources, Finance, and other departments to ensure effective coordination and timely resolution of payroll-related issues. Additionally, the incumbent will be responsible for developing standardized HR process management frameworks and automated workflows to improve efficiency and governance in payroll services delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will lead the end-to-end management of payroll operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance across all payroll areas. Responsibilities include overseeing payroll posting activities, bank file management, and payroll-related financial reporting. The Payroll Operations Manager will also lead the design and enhancement of payroll systems, manage automation initiatives, and ensure alignment with audit standards and business needs. The role requires planning, analysis, testing, and implementation of system upgrades and new functionalities. The incumbent will identify payroll anomalies, resolve operational issues, and implement corrective measures to maintain data integrity. Additionally, the manager will oversee payroll-related reporting activities, maintain standard operating procedures, and perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in management information systems, accounting, business administration, computer science, or a related field. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in HR operations, payroll management, HR/payroll systems development, and process automation is required. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong technical expertise and the ability to manage complexity and change effectively. Experience in business process improvement and workflow automation is also essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) from an accredited educational institution in management information systems, accounting, business administration, computer science, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of payroll operations and the technical aspects of HR systems.

Experience:
The position requires at least seven years of progressively responsible experience in HR operations, payroll management, and HR/payroll systems development. Candidates should have a proven track record in process automation and business process improvement, demonstrating their ability to lead initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness in payroll services.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also recognized as a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, but English proficiency is essential for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Fixed Term Appointment for one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The monthly basic salary is JD 1156.60, with a special occupational allowance of 69.9% of the basic salary. Additional benefits include a monthly Provident Fund contribution, compulsory medical insurance, 30 days of annual leave, and dependency allowance if applicable. The incumbent may be required to travel within the Agency’s operational areas and work outside normal duty hours. This vacancy is open to internal candidates only, and applicants must reside in Amman and have authorization to work in the duty station. UNRWA does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to achieving gender parity and diversity in its workforce.