In the complex and dynamic landscape of humanitarian aid and development, Human Resources is not just a support function—it is a strategic pillar. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is currently seeking a highly skilled HR & Talent Development Associate (G-7) for its office in Damascus, Syria. This position represents a significant career opportunity for experienced HR professionals in the region.
Operating at the G-7 level, this is a senior General Service role. It demands more than just administrative processing; it requires a professional capable of managing intricate talent development initiatives, overseeing recruitment in a crisis context, and ensuring that the UNDP team in Syria is equipped, motivated, and resilient. For Syrian nationals or residents with a background in HR management, this role offers a platform to contribute directly to the recovery and resilience of the country by supporting the people who deliver the aid.
This position offers a competitive compensation package, the stability of a UN contract, and the chance to work within a global network of development experts. As the UNDP continues to adapt its operations in Syria in 2026, the HR & Talent Development Associate will play a critical role in shaping the workforce that drives these essential programs.
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Background & Job Description
The UNDP in Syria operates under challenging conditions to support the resilience of the Syrian people. The Country Office focuses on livelihoods, social cohesion, and infrastructure rehabilitation. To deliver on these ambitious goals, the office requires a robust and agile HR unit.
The HR & Talent Development Associate (G-7) works under the guidance of the HR Analyst or Operations Manager. Unlike lower-level associates who focus on transaction processing, the G-7 Associate is expected to interpret HR policies, advise staff on complex rules, and lead learning and talent development strategies.
This role fits into broader organizational goals by ensuring that the “people strategy” aligns with the “program strategy.” In a high-pressure environment like Damascus, staff well-being, proper training, and efficient recruitment are vital. This position ensures that the right people are in the right place at the right time, and that they are supported by a culture of continuous learning.
Key Responsibilities
The incumbent will be responsible for a wide range of HR services, moving fluidly between operational execution and strategic support.
- Talent Acquisition & Recruitment:
- Manage the full recruitment cycle for national staff and service contractors, including job classification, vacancy announcement, screening, and interviewing.
- Serve as the Secretary to local interview panels, ensuring transparency, gender balance, and strict adherence to UNDP recruitment policies.
- Oversee the onboarding process for new hires, ensuring they are rapidly integrated into the team and briefed on security and operational protocols.
- Talent Development & Learning:
- Conduct the office’s Learning Needs Assessment (LNA) to identify skills gaps within the team.
- Develop and implement the annual Whole of Office Learning Plan (WOLP), coordinating workshops, online training, and retreats.
- Monitor the performance management cycle (PMD), ensuring supervisors and staff complete their appraisals on time and effectively.
- HR Administration & Entitlements:
- Administer contracts, benefits, and entitlements for staff in full compliance with the UN Staff Rules and Local Salary Scales.
- Manage the administration of leave, attendance, and overtime, utilizing the Atlas/Quantum ERP system.
- Handle complex separation processes, ensuring all exit formalities and financial clearances are finalized smoothly.
- Knowledge Building & Knowledge Sharing:
- Organize training for the operations/projects staff on HR-related issues.
- Synthesize lessons learned and best practices in HR to contribute to regional knowledge networks.
UNDP HR & Talent Development Associate 2026: Advance Your Career with a G-7 Role in Damascus
Qualifications
The G-7 level is a senior support grade. The UNDP seeks candidates who combine academic knowledge with substantial practical experience.
Education & Certification
- Secondary Education: Completion of secondary education (High School) is mandatory.
- HR Certification: Specialized certification in HR is highly desirable.
- University Degree: A Bachelor’s degree in HR Management, Business Administration, Psychology, or a related field is desirable and may reduce the number of years of required experience (depending on specific vacancy rules, though G-7 usually requires experience regardless of degree).
Experience
- Years of Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible HR experience is required (or fewer years if in possession of a relevant Bachelor’s degree, typically 4 years).
- Specialized Skills: Experience in recruitment, training, and talent management is essential.
- UN Experience: Prior experience with the UN system or an international NGO is a distinct advantage.
- Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in the use of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and experience in handling web-based management systems (ERP) is required.
Languages
- English & Arabic: Fluency in both English and Arabic (written and spoken) is required. This is non-negotiable as the role involves interpreting English policies for local Arabic-speaking staff and drafting reports in English.
Why Apply for This Position
1. Seniority and Leadership A G-7 position is often the highest rung of the General Service ladder before moving into the National Officer (NO) categories. It places you in a supervisory capacity where you are a trusted advisor to management. It is an excellent role for honing leadership skills and demonstrating your ability to manage a unit.
2. Impact on Crisis Response In the context of Syria, HR is not just administrative; it is humanitarian. By ensuring that project officers, engineers, and field workers are recruited quickly and paid correctly, you are directly enabling the delivery of aid to vulnerable communities. Your efficiency translates to operational speed on the ground.
3. Access to UNDP’s Global Learning Platform UNDP is a world leader in employee development. As the Talent Development Associate, you will have first-hand access to UNDP’s vast library of courses, leadership programs, and career development tools—not just for others, but for your own growth as well.
4. Stability in a Volatile Market The UN offers one of the most stable employment contracts available in Syria today. The compensation is pegged to a specific salary scale that is regularly reviewed, and the benefits (health insurance, pension) provide a safety net for you and your family.
Application Tips & Insights
To secure an interview for this competitive post, your application needs to demonstrate both technical HR expertise and “soft” diplomatic skills.
1. Emphasize “Talent Development” Many HR applicants focus solely on recruitment and payroll. This role specifically highlights Talent Development. In your cover letter, discuss your experience in organizing training, mentoring staff, or managing performance appraisals. Show that you care about growing people, not just hiring them.
2. Demonstrate ERP Proficiency UNDP uses complex systems (Quantum/Atlas). If you have experience with SAP, Oracle, or similar ERPs, highlight this prominently. The ability to navigate these systems without extensive training is a massive plus for hiring managers.
3. Address the Syrian Context HR in Syria faces unique challenges: currency fluctuations, travel restrictions, and psychological stress on staff. Mention your resilience and your ability to handle sensitive personnel issues with discretion and empathy. Show that you understand the “duty of care” required in a crisis zone.
4. Structure Your CV for “Progressive Responsibility” The G-7 requirement is 7 years of progressively responsible experience. Ensure your CV shows growth. Don’t just list the same duties for 7 years. Show how you moved from data entry -> to interviewing -> to strategic planning.
Additional Information
- Salary: Remuneration is based on the UN General Service Salary Scale for Syria (Damascus). G-7 is a senior level, offering a highly competitive salary relative to the local market.
- Contract Type: Likely a Fixed-Term Appointment (FTA), which includes full benefits.
- Benefits:
- Medical insurance for staff and dependents.
- Participation in the UN Joint Staff Pension Fund.
- 30 days of annual leave per year.
- Work Arrangement: The role is based in Damascus. Given the nature of HR (files, in-person counseling), it is primarily an office-based role, though UNDP may offer flexible working arrangements where operationally feasible.
- Nationality: This is a local post. Only Syrian nationals or those with the legal right to work in Syria are eligible to apply.
How to Apply
- Portal: Visit the UNDP Jobs site (jobs.undp.org) or the specific portal for UNDP Syria.
- Search: Look for “HR Associate” or “Talent Development” under the Syria location.
- Profile: Create a profile in the UNDP recruitment system (Quantum). Complete all sections deeply—do not leave gaps in your employment history.
- Motivation Letter: Write a specific letter addressing the requirements of the G-7 role.
- Submit: Upload copies of your academic degrees and any HR certifications.
Deadline: Check the official listing carefully. UNDP systems automatically close at midnight New York or local time (verify specific time zone).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply if I have a Master’s degree but only 3 years of experience? A: It depends on the specific vacancy announcement text. Typically, for G-7 posts, the UN is strict about the minimum years of experience (usually 7 years with High School). A Master’s degree might reduce the requirement to 4 or 5 years, but you must check the specific “Education” section of the job ad. If it says “7 years with High School,” that is the baseline.
Q: Is this position open to international candidates? A: No. Positions classified as “General Service” (G-1 to G-7) are recruited locally. You must be a national of Syria or have a valid work permit to be considered. The UN does not sponsor visas for GS staff.
Q: What is the difference between an HR Assistant and an HR Associate? A: An Assistant typically handles routine tasks (filing, data entry). An Associate (especially at G-6/G-7) is expected to analyze data, interpret rules, and handle complex cases independently. This role requires critical thinking, not just following instructions.
Q: Will I need to travel to field offices? A: Likely, yes. While based in Damascus, the HR Associate may need to travel to field hubs (like Aleppo, Homs, or Qamishli) to conduct training, interview candidates, or support local staff.
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