Receptionist

Receptionist

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)

October 16, 2026November 16, 2026TehranIran
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195
  • The organization is dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR also works to ensure that refugees can access education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities, and it advocates for their rights at the international level.

Job Overview:
The Receptionist position at UNHCR is crucial for the smooth operation of the office's reception area. The incumbent will be responsible for managing the reception area, ensuring that visitors and persons of concern have fair access to UNHCR staff and services. This role requires excellent interpersonal and communication skills, as the Receptionist will interact with a diverse range of individuals, including refugees and other vulnerable populations. The position does not involve supervisory responsibilities but requires the incumbent to work closely under the guidance of a Senior Associate or Officer. The Receptionist will need to demonstrate a strong understanding of the context in which UNHCR operates, including the principles of accountability to affected populations (AAP) and age, gender, and diversity (AGD) approaches. The role also demands the ability to handle a high volume of work and adapt to changing priorities while maintaining a proactive and innovative approach to problem-solving.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Receptionist will perform a variety of duties, including: ensuring that visitors and persons of concern have full access to UNHCR services while respecting their privacy; receiving, screening, and assisting visitors and clients; answering incoming calls and transferring them to the appropriate officer; managing incoming and outgoing mail; utilizing office equipment; maintaining records of visitors and clients; prioritizing individuals based on vulnerability; and reporting on daily and weekly activities to the supervisor. The Receptionist will also be responsible for identifying and managing risks, supporting decision-making processes, and performing any other clerical duties as required. This role is essential in creating a welcoming environment for all visitors and ensuring that their needs are met efficiently and respectfully.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience for the G3 level, along with a High School Diploma or equivalent. A Bachelor's degree or higher is also acceptable. Essential qualifications include a strong understanding of UNHCR's mandate and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality. Familiarity with UNHCR tools and data management systems is highly desirable, as is the ability to manage a high volume of work and adapt to changing priorities.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum. A Bachelor's degree or higher is preferred but not mandatory. The role does not specify any particular field of education, but candidates with relevant educational qualifications in social sciences, international relations, or similar fields may have an advantage.

Experience:
The position requires at least 1 year of relevant experience in a similar role. Candidates with experience working with UNHCR or in a refugee context will be given preference. Experience in customer service, reception, or administrative roles is also beneficial. The ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously is essential for success in this position.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with the UN working language of the duty station, which in this case is Persian (Farsi). Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the populations served by UNHCR in Iran.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a General Service job and does not require functional clearance. It is a full-time role based in Tehran, Iran, and is not remote. The deadline for applications is October 21, 202
  • Candidates may be required to undergo a test and/or interview as part of the selection process. It is important to note that late applications will not be accepted, and all candidates are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment.
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