The UN Human Resources Assistant role at the United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) is now accepting applications for the 2026 intake. This is a prestigious opportunity for administrative professionals to join the world’s leading international organization in the heart of Switzerland.
If you are organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about supporting global teams, this General Service (GS) category position offers an exceptional career path. As a Human Resources Assistant, you will play a vital role in the recruitment, administration, and development of staff who are working to solve global challenges.
This comprehensive guide details the responsibilities, qualifications, and application process for this highly sought-after vacancy.
Also check: Complete Guide to United Nations Internships (2026)
Job Overview: UN Human Resources Assistant
The United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) serves as a representative office of the Secretary-General at Geneva. A focal point for multilateral diplomacy, it services more than 8,000 meetings every year, making it one of the busiest conference centers in the world. Within this dynamic environment, the Human Resources Management Service (HRMS) is critical to ensuring smooth operations.
The UN Human Resources Assistant is typically situated within the HRMS or an Executive Office of a specific department. The incumbent reports to a Human Resources Officer or a Senior Administrative Officer. The role is multifaceted, covering the full life-cycle of staff employment—from onboarding and benefits administration to performance management and separation.
Working in Geneva offers a unique professional environment. You will be interacting with a diverse, multicultural workforce drawn from over 190 member states. For administrative professionals, this role is often considered a gateway into the United Nations system, providing stability, networking opportunities, and exposure to international civil service standards.
For more context on the importance of HR roles in international organizations, you can refer to the United Nations structure and mandate overview.
Key Responsibilities
The duties of a Human Resources Assistant at the UN are varied and require a high level of discretion. While specific tasks vary by department, the core responsibilities generally include:
Recruitment and Placement: Assisting in the review of job openings, screening candidates in the Inspira system, scheduling competency-based interviews, and preparing recruitment reports for the Central Review Bodies.
Administration of Entitlements: Reviewing and processing requests for entitlements and claims (e.g., dependency allowance, education grant, rental subsidy) in accordance with the UN Staff Rules and Regulations.
Staff Onboarding: Coordinating the arrival of new staff members, including visa processing, induction briefings, and setting up initial payroll profiles in the Umoja ERP system.
Performance Management: Assisting staff and supervisors with the e-Performance appraisal system, ensuring compliance with deadlines, and monitoring contract extensions based on performance ratings.
General HR Support: Drafting correspondence, maintaining digital staffing tables, updating the official status files of staff members, and responding to complex queries regarding HR policies.
Data Management: Maintaining accurate data in the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system (Umoja), which is critical for payroll and audit purposes.
Qualifications and Requirements
To be considered for the UN Human Resources Assistant position, candidates must meet strict eligibility criteria. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, but applicants must demonstrate the following:
Education
A High School Diploma or equivalent is mandatory. Supplemental training in human resources, business administration, or social sciences is highly desirable. Passing the United Nations Global General Service Test (GGST) or the Administrative Support Assessment Test (ASAT) is often a prerequisite for appointment.
Experience
Candidates typically require a minimum of five (5) to seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in human resources management, administrative services, or a related area. Experience working with an ERP system (such as SAP or Umoja) and talent management platforms (like Inspira) is a significant advantage.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this post in Geneva, fluency in English is required. Knowledge of French is often required or highly desirable due to the location. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish) is an asset.
Salary & Benefits
The United Nations offers a competitive compensation package for General Service staff in Geneva, which is one of the world’s most desirable duty stations. Benefits typically include:
Tax-Free Salary: Salaries are generally exempt from income tax.
Dependency Allowances: Additional payments for eligible spouses and dependent children.
Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage for the staff member and their family.
Pension Plan: Participation in the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund (UNJSPF).
Leave: 30 days of paid annual leave per year, plus 10 official UN holidays.
Parental Leave: Generous maternity, paternity, and adoption leave policies.
How to Apply
Applying for a UN job requires patience and attention to detail. Follow these steps to submit your application for the UN Human Resources Assistant role:
Create an Inspira Account: Go to careers.un.org and register.
Build Your PHP: Complete your Personal History Profile (PHP). Ensure you list all relevant duties in your work experience section, as the system filters based on keywords.
Search for the Job: Use the Job ID 272332 or search for “Human Resources Assistant” in Geneva.
Submit Application: Attach a cover letter explaining your motivation and how your skills match the post. Do not wait until the deadline (11:59 PM New York time) to submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need a university degree for the UN Human Resources Assistant role?
No, a university degree is not mandatory for General Service (GS) level posts; a high school diploma is the minimum requirement. However, a degree may substitute for some years of required work experience depending on the specific vacancy note.
2. Can I apply if I am not currently living in Switzerland?
Yes, you can apply. However, for General Service positions, candidates are typically recruited locally. This means the UN generally does not pay for relocation or travel expenses for the interview or appointment. Candidates usually must have the legal right to work in Switzerland or be able to obtain it.
3. What is the “Inspira” system mentioned in the job description?
Inspira is the United Nations’ online recruitment and talent management platform. All applications must be submitted through this system; email applications are not accepted.
4. How long does the recruitment process take?
The UN recruitment process is thorough and can take several months. After the application deadline, it may take 1-3 months to be contacted for an assessment or interview.
5. Is the UN Human Resources Assistant job remote?
Generally, no. This is an on-site role based at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, although flexible working arrangements (hybrid work) may be available depending on the department’s policy.
