Established in 1950 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a leading global organization dedicated to protecting and assisting refugees and displaced people worldwide. With operations in over 133 countries, UNHCR offers a wide range of career opportunities for professionals passionate about humanitarian work.
As of August 2025, UNHCR is actively seeking talented individuals from all nationalities to join its mission. The agency provides a diverse array of job opportunities across fields like protection, operations, program management, external relations, legal, and information technology. These roles directly contribute to the organization’s mandate of ensuring the rights and well-being of those forced to flee their homes.
Current Job Openings and Opportunities
UNHCR has expanded its recruitment beyond traditional human rights and humanitarian aid sectors to include a broader range of expertise. The organization offers roles that contribute to critical missions in refugee protection, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development.
Key career paths at UNHCR include:
- Protection: Professionals in this area work directly with refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless people to ensure their rights are upheld. This involves legal aid, advocacy, and policy development.
- Operations: These roles focus on managing and implementing programs that provide direct assistance to refugees, often in complex field environments.
- Finance: Finance professionals support the financial management of UNHCR programs and operations, ensuring accountability and efficient resource allocation.
- Human Resources: HR specialists contribute to the recruitment, training, and development of staff, fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.
- Information Technology: IT specialists provide technical support and expertise to enhance UNHCR’s use of technology for improved operations and data management.
Beyond these core areas, UNHCR also offers opportunities in strategic communications, data science, inter-agency coordination, and external relations, reflecting a need for varied skill sets.
Numerous positions, from entry-level to senior roles, are available in various global locations, including the headquarters in Geneva, Global Service Centres in Amman, Budapest, and Copenhagen, and various field offices worldwide.
To explore these opportunities, interested candidates can visit the official UNHCR career portal.
Requirements and Application Process
To work at UNHCR, candidates typically need a relevant degree or experience in a field related to the organization’s work. Essential skills include strong communication, interpersonal skills, and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. UNHCR is committed to attracting and developing talented individuals who align with its values.
The application process generally involves four key steps:
- Exploring the UNHCR Careers website: This platform lists available job openings and provides detailed information on career paths.
- Creating a profile and applying: Applicants submit their applications for roles that match their skills and interests.
- Networking: Connecting with current and former UNHCR staff can provide valuable insights into the organization’s culture and work.
- Skill Development: Continuously developing skills relevant to UNHCR’s work and staying updated on developments in refugee protection and humanitarian assistance are highly beneficial.
Compensation and Benefits
UNHCR offers competitive compensation packages based on the UN Common System salary scale. This system considers job level, education, and experience. Salaries are tax-free and paid in US dollars.
In addition to salary, benefits typically include:
- Comprehensive health, life, and disability insurance
- A pension plan
- Annual, sick, and family leave
- An education grant for dependent children
Specific benefits may vary depending on the duty station.