Job Description
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is inviting applications for the position of Human Resources Assistant (G5) based in Nairobi, Kenya. This opportunity is designed for a motivated and detail-oriented human resources professional who enjoys working in an international, multicultural environment and is committed to delivering high-quality administrative and HR support. The successful candidate will become part of a dynamic workforce dedicated to promoting sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life in communities around the world.
Working within the Human Resources function, the Human Resources Assistant will provide operational and administrative support across a broad range of HR activities that contribute to the efficient management of personnel services. The position involves supporting recruitment and onboarding activities, maintaining confidential employee records, preparing HR documentation, coordinating personnel actions, assisting with workforce planning processes, and responding to routine staff enquiries while ensuring compliance with established organizational policies and procedures.
The role requires exceptional organizational skills, sound judgment, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities within established deadlines. The successful candidate will collaborate with HR professionals, programme managers, finance personnel, hiring managers, and colleagues from different functional areas to facilitate seamless human resource operations. Maintaining confidentiality, professionalism, and accuracy while handling sensitive employment information will be essential.
The Human Resources Assistant will also contribute to data management, personnel reporting, leave administration, contract monitoring, training coordination, performance management support, and other employee lifecycle activities. The position offers valuable exposure to international HR practices and provides opportunities to strengthen expertise in workforce administration, customer service, document management, and process improvement.
Applicants should possess excellent communication skills and demonstrate the ability to establish positive working relationships with colleagues from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. Strong proficiency in office technology and HR information systems will be beneficial for maintaining accurate records and producing timely reports. Candidates should be capable of identifying administrative issues proactively and recommending practical solutions that enhance efficiency and service delivery.
UN-Habitat values integrity, accountability, respect for diversity, teamwork, professionalism, and continuous learning. Individuals who are passionate about supporting people-focused operations and contributing to organizational excellence are encouraged to apply. This position provides an outstanding opportunity to build a rewarding career within an internationally respected organization while supporting programmes that create sustainable cities and resilient communities worldwide.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide comprehensive administrative support for daily human resources operations while ensuring accuracy and efficiency in all assigned tasks.
- Assist with recruitment coordination by scheduling interviews, preparing candidate documentation, and communicating with applicants professionally.
- Prepare employment-related correspondence, personnel letters, contract documentation, and HR forms in accordance with organizational standards.
- Maintain confidential employee records using established electronic and physical filing systems.
- Update personnel databases and HR information systems with accurate employee information.
- Support onboarding activities by coordinating orientation schedules and preparing induction materials for newly appointed staff members.
- Assist in monitoring employment contracts and notify supervisors regarding upcoming renewals or required administrative actions.
- Coordinate leave administration processes and maintain accurate attendance records.
- Respond promptly to employee enquiries regarding human resources policies, procedures, and administrative matters.
- Compile HR statistics, workforce reports, and management information using available data sources.
- Verify supporting documentation before processing personnel actions.
- Assist with performance management administration by tracking evaluation schedules and maintaining relevant documentation.
- Coordinate learning and development activities including training logistics, attendance records, and participant communications.
- Support staff welfare initiatives and employee engagement activities whenever required.
- Ensure compliance with applicable HR policies, administrative guidelines, and internal procedures.
- Prepare meeting agendas, record minutes, and follow up on agreed action items.
- Coordinate communication between HR staff, hiring managers, and other administrative units.
- Assist with travel-related HR documentation where applicable.
- Monitor document workflows to ensure timely processing of personnel requests.
- Maintain confidentiality while handling sensitive employee information.
- Organize personnel files to facilitate efficient document retrieval.
- Support audit exercises by preparing requested HR documentation.
- Review administrative processes and recommend workflow improvements where appropriate.
- Assist with workforce planning activities and staffing documentation.
- Perform quality checks on HR records to ensure completeness and consistency.
- Coordinate official correspondence relating to staffing activities.
- Support implementation of new HR procedures and administrative initiatives.
- Contribute positively to a collaborative and service-oriented workplace environment.
- Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, integrity, and respect in all interactions.
- Carry out additional human resources and administrative duties assigned by supervisors consistent with the responsibilities of the position.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Completion of secondary education
- additional certification or diploma in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related discipline is highly desirable.
- Professional training in HR administration or personnel management is an advantage.
- Strong knowledge of human resource administrative practices.
- Excellent organizational and time management abilities.
- High level of integrity and confidentiality.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
- Ability to work effectively in multicultural environments.
- Strong analytical and problem
- solving capabilities.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Experience using HR information systems is advantageous.
- Excellent document management and record
- keeping skills.
- Ability to prioritize competing assignments.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Professional attitude with excellent judgment.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
- Fluency in English is required
- knowledge of another UN language is an added advantage.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates who meet the requirements are encouraged to submit their application through the official United Nations careers recruitment system before the closing date. Applicants should complete the online application form carefully, ensuring that all employment history, educational qualifications, professional certifications, and supporting information are accurate and up to date. Only applications submitted through the official recruitment platform before the stated deadline will be considered. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further assessment, interviews, or additional verification as part of the selection process. The United Nations Human Settlements Programme is committed to equal opportunity employment and welcomes applications from qualified candidates who demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and commitment to international public service.