UNESCO is Hiring an Administrative (HR) Assistant: Exciting oppotunity – Apply by 23 March 2026

Are you an experienced HR and administration professional ready to contribute to meaningful change in Afghanistan? United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is currently recruiting an Administrative (HR) Assistant for its Kabul Office. This opportunity places you at the heart of UNESCO’s operations, supporting recruitment, payroll, and HR processes in a dynamic and impactful environment.

This position is offered under a Service Contract at Level SC-5, based in Kabul, with an initial duration of six months and the possibility of extension subject to performance and funding availability.

About the Role

The Administrative (HR) Assistant will work within the Administration Section of the UNESCO Kabul Office under the authority of the Head of Office and overall supervision of the Senior Operations Officer.

This role is central to ensuring that human resources processes are handled professionally, efficiently, and in line with UNESCO standards. It blends HR operations, payroll management, recruitment coordination, and compliance functions—making it ideal for seasoned professionals with strong organizational skills and international experience.

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Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will support a wide range of HR and administrative functions, including:

Recruitment & Talent Management

• Assisting hiring managers in drafting and reviewing job openings.
• Screening applicants to ensure eligibility criteria are met.
• Conducting reference checks and academic verifications.
• Preparing and initiating offers of appointment.
• Coordinating written assessments, interviews, and competitive exams.
• Maintaining electronic rosters for national category positions.

Payroll & Financial Administration

• Processing monthly payroll for staff and Service Contract holders.
• Tracking and adjusting monthly danger pay.
• Creating and maintaining financial records in SAP.
• Acting as a certifying officer within authorized limits under UNESCO financial policy.

HR Administration & Staff Support

• Conducting exit interviews and managing separation processes.
• Drafting responses to HR-related queries.
• Participating in HR Working Group meetings.
• Performing additional work-related duties as required.

This combination of responsibilities makes the role both operational and strategic—ideal for professionals who enjoy multitasking while maintaining high standards of accuracy and confidentiality.

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Organizational Context

UNESCO has been working in Afghanistan as a long-term strategic partner, particularly in education and development initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Kabul Office plays a crucial role in implementing the United Nations Strategic Framework for Afghanistan (2023–2027).

By joining this team, you contribute directly to rebuilding and strengthening Afghanistan’s education and administrative systems while aligning with UNESCO’s Medium-Term Strategy (2022–2029).

Required Qualifications

To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Education

• A university degree in Business Administration, Economics, Accounting, or a related field.
• A Master’s degree in HR Management is considered an asset.

Work Experience

• Minimum 10 years of professional experience in Human Resources, administration, or operations.
• At least 5 years of experience in international organizations, preferably in diverse working environments.
• Experience working with UN agencies is desirable.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Strong organizational and teamwork abilities.
• Proficiency in computer and internet applications.
• Knowledge of ERP systems such as SAP is advantageous.

Languages

• Excellent fluency in English.
• Fluency in Dari or Pashto (written and spoken).

Core Competencies

UNESCO emphasizes the following competencies for this role:

• Communication
• Accountability
• Innovation
• Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
• Planning and organizing
• Results focus
• Teamwork

These competencies reflect UNESCO’s core values of commitment, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism.

Contract Details

• Contract Type: Service Contract
• Level: SC-5
• Duty Station: Kabul (On-site)
• Initial Duration: 6 months
• Extension: Possible based on performance and funding
• Application Deadline: 23 March 2026

Selection Process

Candidates must complete an online application through the UNESCO Careers website. The recruitment process may include:

• Written assessments
• Pre-recorded video interviews
• Panel interviews
• Reference checks

Shortlisted candidates may also be added to talent pools, subject to consent.

UNESCO maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and encourages applications from minority groups, indigenous communities, and persons with disabilities. UNESCO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This role offers:

• A chance to work with a leading UN agency.
• Direct involvement in HR systems and recruitment at country level.
• Exposure to SAP and UN financial frameworks.
• A multicultural and high-impact work environment.
• Contribution to national development and SDG implementation.

For experienced HR professionals seeking to deepen their international experience and make a tangible impact, this is a significant opportunity.

Final Thoughts

The UNESCO Administrative (HR) Assistant position in Kabul is more than an administrative job—it is a strategic role supporting workforce excellence within one of the world’s most respected international organizations. With a strong HR background, multilingual capability, and experience in international settings, you can position yourself as a competitive candidate.

If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about contributing to sustainable development in Afghanistan, ensure you submit your application before 23 March 2026.