Hardship LevelU (unclassified)
Family TypeNo designation
Family TypeNo designation
Residential location (if applicable)
GradeGS2
Staff Member / Affiliate TypeGeneral Service
ReasonRegular > Regular Assignment
Target Start Date2025-09-01
Deadline for ApplicationsAugust 6, 2025
Standard Job Description
Driver
Organizational Setting and Work Relationships
The Driver in the UNHCR Office is normally supervised directly by the Administrative Officer/Associate/Assistant or another staff member when the scale of the Operation so require it. Besides driving, the incumbent is responsible for up keep and maintenance of the assigned UNHCR vehicle(s) as per technical guidance and specifications established by the Organisation. S/he is required to follow strict instructions and security guidance provided by the supervisor. While the basic function of a driver is to drive the official vehicles of UNHCR, s/he may be called upon to perform minor maintenance and repair of UNHCR vehicles.
The Driver has regular contacts with staff within the UNHCR Office and with others (including Partners, government authorities, etc.) outside UNHCR involving a limited exchange of information.
All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR¿s core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.
Duties
- Drive UNHCR vehicles for the transport of authorized passengers, deliver, and collect documents and other items.
- Meet official personnel at airports or other locations and facilitate immigration and customs formalities as required.
- Perform day-to-day maintenance of the assigned vehicles; check oil, water, battery, brakes, tires, etc. and ensure that the assigned UNHCR vehicles are road or waterway worthy and maintained up to the established security standards.
- Perform minor repairs, arrange for other repairs, and ensure that the vehicle is kept clean.
- Ensure that the steps required by rules and regulations, or other local procedures, are taken in case of involvement in an accident.
- Log official trips, daily mileage, gas consumption, oil changes, greasing, etc.
- Ensure that instructions and security guidance provided by the supervisor and security focal point are strictly followed.
- Ensures valid documentation for passengers, items or cargo in vehicle.
- Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).
- Perform other related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For G2D - 2 years relevant experience with Completion of Primary Education or High School Diploma or higher
Field(s) of Education
Not applicable
Certificates and/or Licenses
*Driving Licences;
(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Relevant Job Experience
Essential
Driving licence, knowledge of driving rules and regulations.
Desirable
Not specified.
Functional Skills
* DV-Driving Rules and Regulations
DV - Basic Vehicle Mechanical Skills;
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.
All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power.
As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.
This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.
Desired Candidate Profile The candidate will have a strong knowledge of local roads and traffic conditions, as well as a solid understanding of safety regulations and vehicle maintenance. He/she requires a high level of discretion, professionalism, and reliability, especially when transporting staff to sensitive meetings or locations linked to UNHCR’s protection work. He/She may also be required to support logistics during field missions, including coordination with local authorities and partners.
The operational context in the Dominican Republic requires a proactive and responsible individual who can adapt to changing schedules and work under pressure. While Elias Pina offers a relatively stable and modern living environment, challenges such as heavy traffic, varying road conditions, and security risks in certain areas necessitate constant vigilance and strict adherence to UNDSS guidance. The Driver must also be prepared for travel to remote or underserved areas, sometimes under difficult weather or road conditions, especially during the hurricane season.
In fulfilling these responsibilities, the Driver contributes to the effectiveness and safety of UNHCR’s operations, enabling staff to carry out protection and assistance activities efficiently across the country. Knowledge of English language is an asset.
No late applications can be accepted, and applicants are able to withdraw directly from Workday Careers page until the Job Requisition has attained a certain stage in the vacancy management process. Candidates must be nationals of the Dominican Republic or have legal residence with valid work permit in the Dominican Republic at the time of submitting their applications. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. A written test and/or interview may be conducted as part of the selection process.
Required languages (expected Overall ability is at least B2 level):
,
,
Desired languages
,
,
Operational context
Occupational Safety and Health Considerations:
To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit this link:
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel
Nature of Position:
The Dominican Republic presents a complex operational environment shaped by mixed migration flows, legal and policy challenges, and protection concerns, including statelessness. Since the reopening of its office in 2010, UNHCR has been working closely with national authorities and civil society to respond to the needs of asylum-seekers, refugees, and individuals at risk of statelessness.
Within this context, the Driver plays an essential role in supporting the delivery of UNHCR’s protection and operational activities. Based in Elias Pina and reporting to the relevant supervisor, the Driver is responsible for the safe and timely transportation of UNHCR personnel, official visitors, and good, ensuring that movements are conducted in accordance with established safety and security protocols.
Living and Working Conditions:
Elías Piña is a rural and underdeveloped province with limited infrastructure and basic services. The town of Comendador, the provincial capital, serves as the main operational base for UNHCR activities in the area. While it offers essential amenities such as small markets, pharmacies, and health posts, access to specialized healthcare, international schools, and modern housing is limited. Staff may need to travel to larger cities such as San Juan de la Maguana for certain services.
The security level in Elías Piña is classified as Level 2 – Low, but staff should exercise heightened awareness due to the sensitive nature of border dynamics, including irregular migration, deportations/refoulement, and occasional civil unrest. UNDSS provides regular security updates, and staff are expected to adhere to all safety protocols, especially when traveling to remote or high-risk areas.
The region is prone to seasonal flooding and landslides during the rainy season and may be affected by tropical storms during the hurricane season. Vector-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya are present, and preventive health measures are recommended. Internet and mobile connectivity can be inconsistent, and electricity outages may occur.
Additional Qualifications
SkillsDV - Basic Vehicle Mechanical Skills, DV-Driving Rules and Regulations
Education
CertificationsDriving License - Other
Work Experience
CompetenciesAccountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Organizational awareness, Planning & organizing, Teamwork & collaboration, Technological awareness
UNHCR Salary Calculator
https://icsc.un.org/Home/SalaryScales
Compendium
Additional InformationPlease note: This is a locally recruited position. All applicants must be legally residing in the Dominican Republic and possess a valid work permit or permanent resident status at the time of application.
Functional clearanceThis position doesn't require a functional clearance