HR Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and aims to help countries develop strong policies, skills, partnerships, and institutions to sustain their progress. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, employing thousands of staff members who are united by a common purpose: to assist countries and communities in pursuing peaceful and prosperous lives while living in harmony with the planet. The organization is committed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strives to be at the forefront of human resources management in the international development sector through its People for 2030 strategy, which aims to transform UNDP's culture and enhance workforce capacity.

Job Overview:
The HR Specialist position is designed to provide substantive expertise in the formulation, application, and interpretation of UN Staff Regulations and Staff Rules, as well as UNDP HR policies and procedures. The incumbent will focus on delivering people transactional and advisory services, which include benefits and entitlements, contractual management, and personnel support. This role is critical in supporting the translation of UNDP HR management principles into effective practices across core HR services, including performance management, recruitment, career development, and duty of care. The HR Specialist will also provide authoritative policy advice to HR and UNDP leaders, contribute to the design of staff well-being programs, and manage well-being services. The position requires collaboration with various units within UNDP to ensure that HR policies are aligned with organizational goals and that personnel support services are effectively delivered.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The HR Specialist will be responsible for designing and formulating consistent UNDP policies and frameworks for HR support to individual personnel. This includes drafting HR policy content focused on benefits and entitlements, duty of care, staff well-being, contract management, and performance management. The incumbent will also develop and maintain simplified HR policies in collaboration with technical writers and subject matter experts. Additionally, the HR Specialist will prepare HR policy submissions to ensure compliance with organizational targets and timelines, revise policies to reflect changes in UN Staff Regulations, and provide HR policy support during optimization processes. Conducting risk analysis and providing HR policy advice that aligns with the People for 2030 Strategy is essential. The role also involves extensive research and analysis on complex HR issues, advising managers on conflictual cases, and ensuring effective communication between HR service providers and UNDP clients.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as Corporate Human Resources Law, Human Resources Management, Law, Organizational Development, Public Administration, Organizational Psychology, International Development, Business Administration, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned areas, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered. The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant professional work experience with a master’s degree or nine years with a bachelor’s degree in human resources management, law, or a related field. Familiarity with UN and/or UNDP Rules and Regulations is advantageous, as is experience in international organizations.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Corporate Human Resources Law, Human Resources Management, Law, Organizational Development, Public Administration, Organizational Psychology, International Development, Business Administration, or a relevant field is required. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the mentioned areas, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, will also be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The HR Specialist position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant professional work experience in human resources management, law, or a related field, with a master’s degree, or nine years with a bachelor’s degree. Experience in a similar role within an international organization or substantial international human resources experience is required. Familiarity with the interpretation and application of UN and/or UNDP Rules and Regulations is an advantage, as is experience with the UN Common System. Proficiency in using computers and office software packages, as well as experience in handling web-based management systems, is also beneficial.

Languages:
Proficiency in oral and written English is required for this position. A working knowledge of another UN language is desirable, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse international environment of UNDP.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role within UNDP, and candidates should be aware that UNDP is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. Selected candidates will undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the organization's standards and principles. The right to select multiple candidates is reserved by UNDP, and applicants are encouraged to read the guidance on using AI responsibly in the recruitment process. Additionally, UNDP does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.