Job Description: HR Specialist

Organization Overview:

Kurdistan Organization for Human Rights Watch (KOHRW) is an independent, non-profit, non- governmental organization that was established in 1996. KOHRW was registered as an NGO in Iraq in 2005. The vision of KOHRW is to serve as a beacon of light for those Iraqis who were denied democracy and human rights. KOHRW has contributed to many humanitarian services and different development programs in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) and federal Iraq. This has ranged from constructing shelters for IDPs to protection, human rights promotion, election preparedness and monitoring, civil society and NGO capacity building and training, women’s rights and democracy initiatives. KOHRW has extensive experience in bridging the gap between different ethnic and religious groups in Iraq.

Role Summary:

We are seeking a seasoned HR Specialist to oversee a spectrum of HR responsibilities that support our senior management team. The ideal candidate will be adept in HR practices, exhibit exceptional organizational skills, and have the ability to operate independently with minimal supervision. This role is crucial for enhancing our organizational efficiency by ensuring all staff receive timely and personalized HR support.

Position Title: HR Specialist
Reports To: Director of Finance and Administration
Location: Erbil, Headquarters
Duration: 6 Months (Renewable)

Key Responsibilities:

• Recruitment and Staffing: Oversee the entire recruitment process, including the development of job descriptions, job posting, screening, interviewing, and selection of candidates. Maintain an active HR pool database of potential hires, contractors, trainers, experts, volunteers and consultants.
• Employee Onboarding and Offboarding: Manage comprehensive onboarding processes to ensure smooth integration of new hires into the organization, including job offers, contracts, reference checks, providing assets, and orientation. Oversee offboarding procedures to ensure clear communication and seamless transitions for departing employees.
• Training and Development: Assess training needs in conjunction with departmental managers and plan or deliver necessary training and inductions. Foster an environment of continuous professional development and learning.
• Performance Management: Implement and maintain performance review systems. Ensure regular feedback mechanisms are in place to enhance employee performance and align with organizational goals.
• Payroll and Benefits Administration: Prepare and execute payroll processes monthly, calculate financial dues, Tax, social security, track leave balances, and manage employee benefits.
• HR Policy Development: Develop and update HR policies, SOPs, and templates to ensure effective resource management and compliance with labor laws and organizational policies. Such as performance management, equal opportunities, disciplinary procedures, salary allocation, and absence management SOPs.
• Disciplinary Actions: Develop and enforce disciplinary procedures and guidelines to manage employee behavior and ensuring that all staff adheres to KOHRW regulations and follows KOHRW standards in their daily work.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Champion DEI efforts within the organization to foster an inclusive workplace. Develop strategies to enhance diversity and ensure equitable opportunities for all employees.
• Legal and Compliance: Ensure compliance with local and national employment laws and regulations. Assist with the preparation and maintenance of legal documents and certifications.
• Document Management: Maintain meticulous records of HR documents both on servers and as hard copies, including employment contracts, staff IDs, CVs, and certifications.
• Support and Advisory Services: Act as a consultant to department managers to help understand and implement HR policies and procedures effectively. Provide continuous support to staff concerning legal papers, travel visas, and other official requirements.
• Supporting KOHRW Activities and Project Accounts: Assist in managing and supporting KOHRW activities and project accounts throughout Iraq.
• Travel Requirements: The position requires up to 25% travel within Iraq to support various project sites and organizational activities.

• Any other related tasks delegated line manager.

Qualifications & Preferred Skills:

• At least 5 years of experience in an HR management role within the NGO sector.
• Excellent knowledge of labor law and employment regulations.
• Strong proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with modern office technology.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, Arabic, and/or Kurdish.
• Outstanding organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and upholding ethical standards.
• University degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field.

How to Apply:

• Interested candidates should submit their CV in PDF format to hr@kohrw.org with a CC to info@kohrw.org, Please indicate “HR Specialist” in the subject line of your email.
• We will contact only shortlisted candidates.
• Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.