DRIVER

Organizational Context

This position is situated within the OHCHR Syria Country Office in Damascus. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is mandated to promote and protect human rights. This role contributes to the operational support functions of the office, reporting administratively to the Representative of the OHCHR Syria Country Office, ensuring smooth daily operations in a critical humanitarian context.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of the Driver role is to provide safe and reliable transportation services for authorized personnel, general cargo, and potentially hazardous goods within the OHCHR Syria Country Office in Damascus. This position is crucial for ensuring the efficient movement of staff and essential materials, thereby directly supporting the operational continuity and programmatic activities of the office. The incumbent facilitates critical logistical functions, including regular deliveries between UN offices and external institutions, making minor purchases, and assisting with customs formalities. Furthermore, the role involves meticulous day-to-day vehicle maintenance to ensure safety and operational readiness. The Driver also contributes to broader office support by assisting with data collection, analysis, and information sharing, as well as ensuring adherence to security advisories and procedures. This role is integral to the smooth functioning of the office, enabling staff to carry out their mandates effectively and securely.

Responsibilities

The Driver is responsible for safely operating vehicles to transport authorized personnel, general cargo, and potentially hazardous goods, ensuring adherence to all traffic laws and safety protocols. Key duties include conducting regular deliveries of documents and parcels between UN offices and external institutions such such as Ministries, Embassies, and Permanent Missions. The role also involves facilitating minor purchases from local suppliers, collecting urgent goods, and managing customs formalities, including making or collecting payments as necessary. The incumbent will meet official personnel at the airport, assisting with immigration and customs procedures. A critical responsibility is the day-to-day maintenance of assigned vehicles, which includes routine checks of oil, water, battery, brakes, and tires, performing minor repairs, arranging for more extensive repairs, and ensuring vehicle cleanliness. The Driver must accurately log all official trips, daily mileage, fuel consumption, and maintenance activities. In the event of an accident, the Driver ensures all required rules and regulations are followed. Additionally, the role provides administrative support by assisting with data collection, analysis, and report preparation for information sharing and decision-making, and helps update information materials. The Driver is also responsible for seeking MOPs and security clearances, and staying informed on security advisories.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of professional driving experience with a proven safe driving record is required. This includes experience operating various vehicle types, such as vans and other motorized vehicles. Prior experience with United Nations entities or similar international organizations is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism: Strong knowledge of driving rules, local roads, security, and safety protocols; ability to remain calm under pressure and demonstrate persistence. Data Analysis: Capacity for basic data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Planning & Organizing: Ability to set goals, prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and foresee risks. Client Orientation: Focus on client needs, building productive partnerships, and delivering timely services.

Explore related opportunities