Driver

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 aims to ensure that the rights of individuals are upheld and that governments are held accountable for their actions. The organization operates in various regions around the world, including Southern Africa, where it has a regional office in Pretoria, South Africa. The OHCHR is committed to fostering a culture of respect for human rights and works with various stakeholders to achieve its mission. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is dedicated to promoting gender equality and inclusivity within its ranks.

Job Overview:
The Driver position at the OHCHR Regional Office for Southern Africa in Pretoria involves providing safe and reliable transportation services for authorized personnel. The role requires the driver to be knowledgeable about local driving regulations and the geographical area, ensuring that all transportation needs are met efficiently. The driver will be responsible for the maintenance of the assigned vehicle, including regular checks and minor repairs, and will also assist with logistical tasks such as collecting and delivering documents and parcels. The position demands a high level of professionalism, as the driver will interact with senior officials, diplomats, and other stakeholders, requiring tact and discretion. Additionally, the driver may be involved in data collection and analysis, contributing to the preparation of reports and presentations, which adds an analytical dimension to the role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Driver will be responsible for the following duties:

• Safely driving vehicles for the transport of authorized personnel.
• Making regular pickups and deliveries of parcels, diplomatic pouches, and documents between the UN office and other institutions such as Ministries and Embassies.
• Performing minor purchases and collecting urgent items from local suppliers as requested.
• Collecting goods from customs while adhering to regulations.
• Meeting official personnel at the airport and facilitating immigration and customs formalities.
• Maintaining the assigned vehicle, including checking oil, water, battery, brakes, and tires, and performing minor repairs.
• Logging official trips, daily mileage, gas consumption, and maintenance activities.
• Applying good judgment in assignments and being willing to perform first aid and basic life support when necessary.
• Assisting with data collection and analysis, as well as preparing presentations and reports. 1
• Updating information materials such as web pages or brochures. 1
• Performing other duties as required by the Regional Representative or designate.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, along with driver training and a valid driver’s license. A minimum of two years of professional driving experience with a proven safe driving record is required. Experience in driving various types of vehicles, including vans and motorized vehicles, is essential. Additionally, experience providing driving services to senior officials, diplomats, or VIPs is desirable, as is experience in defensive driving, diplomatic protocol, and first aid. Familiarity with working in a United Nations environment or similar organizations is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. Candidates must also have completed driver training and hold a valid driver’s license, which is essential for performing the duties of the role effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of continuous professional driving experience. Candidates should have a proven safe driving record and experience in operating a variety of vehicle makes and models. Experience in providing driving services to senior officials or diplomats is highly desirable, as is familiarity with defensive driving techniques and diplomatic protocols. Previous experience working with United Nations entities or similar organizations will be considered an asset.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and while it is not mandatory for this position, proficiency in French may be considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that applicants must be authorized to work in South Africa. The appointment may be extended based on the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits that are exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in its workforce and adheres to a non-smoking policy in its environment.