Senior HR Assistant (PSA-3)

United Nations University (UNU)

The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization within the United Nations System. UNU engages in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination in furtherance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations. The work of UNU contributes to solving pressing global problems that are the concern of the United Nations and its Member States.

For the past five decades, UNU has been a source of impartial research on sustainability, human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers working at institutes in 12 countries, UNU's expertise spans the full breadth of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to effect positive global change. UNU collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions across the globe. For more information, please visit http://unu.edu

United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security is one of 13 research and training Institutes that comprise the think tanks in the UNU system.  

The United Nations University’s Vice-Rectorate in Europe (UNU-VIE), established in 2007 in Bonn, Germany, is one of two UNU Vice-Rectorates and the only one located in Europe. It supports the institutional development of UNU, facilitates collaboration across UNU and the UN, as well as fosters strategic partnerships - particularly with the Global South - and shares knowledge and expertise through the development of joint activities and projects. In addition, UNU-VIE conducts frontier research reinforcing existing UNU programming and supporting the implementation of key UN priorities. More information about UNU-VIE can be found here: https://unu.edu/vie.

Responsibilities

Under the authority of the Vice-Rector/Director of UNU-EHS and the overall guidance of Head of Finance and Administration and the direct supervision of the Human Resources Associate (Focal Point), the Senior HR Assistant ensures execution of transparent and efficient HR services at UNU-VIE and UNU-EHS. The Senior HR Assistant also promotes a collaborative, client-oriented approach in resolving various HR-related issues and information exchange.

1.     Recruitment and Talent Acquisition     

·       Support the implementation of recruitment processes and workstreams, including preparing and publishing vacancy announcements, screening applications, some of which preferably in an international setting;

·       Demonstrated experience in the use of ERP systems, Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and 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 organizational skills and ability to take initiative, prioritize and deliver results in a fast-paced work environment.

Other Desirable Skills:

·       Team player with good interpersonal skills, demonstrated 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 and their application 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 the experience and qualifications of the candidate. Benefits include 30 days annual leave and a health insurance scheme.

UNU is not liable for any taxes that may be levied on the remuneration you receive under this contract. Payment of any such taxes remains the sole responsibility of PSA holders.

Duration of contract

The duration of the initial contract is 1 year. This is Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract with UNU, with the possibility for renewal subject to requirements and satisfactory work 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. It is, however, a locally recruited post and no relocation allowances
apply. The duty station will be Bonn, Germany.

Starting date: As soon as possible

Submissions must be received by 23:59 CET on the deadline; late entries will not be accepted.

How to Apply

To apply to UNU, you will not need an account. Instead, we ask that you:

• Fill out the UNU P11 Form (please avoid using similar forms provided by other United Nations organisations);

• provide a motivation statement (in the P11 form);
  

• provide a cover letter setting out how the qualifications and experience match the requirements of the position;

• answer a few questions that are tailored to the position; and

  You may wish to refer to the UN Values and Behaviours Framework for more information.

• apply via the apply link.

Application Deadline: 20 May 2026.

Submissions must be received by 23:59 CET on the deadline; late entries will not be accepted.

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by a competency-based interview, background checks, and references.

Special Notice

PSA holders are neither “staff members” under the Staff Regulations and Rules of the United Nations nor “officials” for the purpose of the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations (1946). They are subject to the Rector's authority and may be assigned to any of the activities or offices of the United Nations University. The Rector reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a level below that advertised. UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities to apply and become part of the organisation. Applications from developing countries, and from women are strongly encouraged. Eligible internal applicants are also encouraged to apply. UNU has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNU, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. If you have supervisory function, you need to have awareness on gender related issues.

Information about UNU rosters

UNU reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNU at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Scam Warning

UNU does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process. Should you receive a solicitation for the payment of a fee, please disregard it. Furthermore, please note that emblems, logos, names and addresses are easily copied and reproduced. Therefore, you are advised to apply particular care when submitting personal information on the web.

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