Senior HR Assistant (PSA-3)

Senior HR Assistant

The Senior HR Assistant reports to the Vice‑Rector/Director of UNU‑EHS and the Head of Finance and Administration, and is supervised by the Human Resources Associate (Focal Point). The role ensures execution of transparent and efficient HR services at UNU‑VIE and UNU‑EHS, promoting a collaborative client‑oriented approach.

Responsibilities

• Recruitment and Talent Acquisition – support recruitment processes, prepare and publish vacancy announcements, screen applications, administer written assessments, coordinate interviews, support panel processes, prepare and document interview reports, maintain recruitment data, compile candidate information, track and file records, provide updates and respond to inquiries.
• Onboarding and Off‑boarding – support onboarding processes including ICT access, badge requests, Global Directory entries and website updates, assist with documentation and coordination, support pre‑employment requirements (e.g., medical reimbursements), support separation for Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) and Consultant (CTC) personnel, maintain personnel records, contribute to process improvements.
• Contract and Personnel Administration – prepare and review PSA and consultant contracts, process extensions, promotions, and personnel inquiries, administer CTC contracts including vendor registration, PO creation and issuance, provide analytical support on contract data and workforce planning.
• Payroll and Financial Coordination – support monthly PSA payroll processing via RPA instructions, assist in PO creation and closure for consultants, coordinate milestone‑based consultant payments and deliverable tracking, prepare CTC reports and perform monthly reconciliation to ensure accurate, compliant, and timely CTC payment processing and calculations.
• HR Data, Reporting and Analytics and General HR Support – prepare HR metrics, statistical and periodic reports; maintain HR tracking systems and personnel files for data accuracy and integrity; monitor shared inbox and respond to inquiries; support leave monitoring; act as backup for HR team members when required; perform other duties as assigned.

Key Performance Indicators

• Timely and quality delivery of HR operational processes (recruitment, onboarding/offboarding, contract administration, reporting, payroll support).
• Accuracy and completeness of HR records, tracking systems, and personnel files.
• Professional handling of HR‑related inquiries and coordination with internal stakeholders.
• Reliable support to HR reporting and administrative functions, contributing to smooth HR service delivery.

Competencies

• Inclusion – create an environment of dignity and respect for all, regardless of identity factors.
• Integrity – act ethically, demonstrating UN standards and addressing unethical behaviour promptly.
• Humility – stay self‑aware and willing to learn from others.
• Humanity – act according to the purposes of the United Nations: peace, dignity and equality.
• Connect and Collaborate – build positive relationships to advance UN work and operate cohesively.
• Analyse and Plan – use data to understand problems, inform decision‑making, and plan action.
• Deliver Results with Positive Impact – hold self and others accountable for positive outcomes.
• Learn and Develop – pursue and contribute to learning and development.
• Adapt and Innovate – be flexible, agile, and creative in thinking and action.

Qualifications

Education and Certification – High school diploma or equivalent in human resources management, business administration, or another relevant field.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in human resources or business administration, preferred in an international setting.
• Demonstrated experience in the use of ERP systems, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and recruitment systems.
• Demonstrated experience in recruitment and HR operations, contract and payroll administration.
• Strong coordination, reporting and analytical skills; meticulous attention to detail and process orientation.
• Proven organisational skills and ability to take initiative, prioritise and deliver results in a fast‑paced environment.

Other Desirable Skills

• Team player with good interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi‑cultural, multi‑ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
• Prior experience within the UN system is an asset, complemented by knowledge of UN HR policies across the employment life cycle.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in English is required.
• Fluency in German is desired.
• Knowledge of another UN official working language is an asset.

Remuneration

The successful candidate will be employed under a national PSA contract. UNU offers an attractive compensation package including an annual net salary commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include 30 days annual leave and a health insurance scheme.

Duration of Contract

The initial contract is 1 year, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance. The combined duration on a PSA contract with UNU may not exceed six (6) years. The mandatory age of retirement for PSA holders is 65 years. This post is open to applicants from all countries and UNU will aid the successful applicant in securing a work visa for Germany, as necessary. The duty station will be Bonn, Germany.

Legal and Diversity Statement

UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages applicants of all backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities. Applications from developing countries and women are strongly encouraged. UNU has a zero‑tolerance policy against conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination.