Officer – Human Resources
American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), UAE
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is an independent co-education institution of Higher Education that provides an integrated American-style, undergraduate and graduate education. All programs are accredited by the Ministry of Education of the UAE; additionally, it is accredited by the U.S. regional accreditation association, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The American model of higher education ensures not only skills in specific academic fields, but also a general education curriculum that exposes students to new ideas and ways of thinking critically about local and global issues. AURAK is a young and rapidly growing university. AURAK is located in Ras Al Khaimah, one of the Northern Emirates and a rapidly growing region. The beauty of Ras Al Khaimah is reflected in its traditions and diverse landscapes — its white sandy beaches, the majestic Hajjar Mountains, the expansive desert and its sand dunes, and the many historical sites.
AURAK values diversity, inclusiveness and cultural authenticity where all individuals are treated based on their merits and abilities. AURAK is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from all qualified applicants irrespective of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or age.
About The Role
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is seeking a detail-oriented, organized, and service-focused UAE National to join the Office of Human Resources as an Officer – Human Resources. Reporting to the Senior Manager – HR, the Officer – Human Resources will support the effective delivery of core HR operations and services across the University. The role will provide support across a broad range of HR activities, including performance management, professional development, recruitment and onboarding, employee relations, employee engagement, Emiratization, HR compliance, employee transfers, contract renewals, and employee records administration. The Officer – Human Resources will work closely with employees, line managers, academic and administrative departments, and relevant University offices to ensure that HR processes are delivered accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with AURAK policies, procedures, and applicable UAE Labor Law. The successful candidate will also contribute to Emiratization initiatives, including maintaining NAFIS registration, tracking UAE National recruitment data, and monitoring progress against approved Emiratization plans. The role provides an opportunity for a UAE National professional to develop broad experience across HR operations while contributing to a positive employee experience and effective workforce management.
This position is open to UAE Nationals only.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate and administer the Performance Management System (PMS), including KPI submissions, review stages, appraisal completion, and performance management tracking.
- Maintain accurate PMS reports, trackers, and related documentation to ensure timely completion of performance management cycles.
- Support employee learning and development initiatives by coordinating training nominations, development plans, and learning records in collaboration with line managers.
- Support assigned recruitment activities, including job postings, candidate screening, interview coordination, candidate documentation, offer and contract preparation, and accurate creation of employee records in HR systems.
- Coordinate onboarding and post-joining activities, including joining formalities, orientation scheduling, probation monitoring, and employee confirmation processes.
- Monitor employee probation periods and coordinate timely confirmation processes in accordance with employment terms and University procedures.
- Monitor employee contract end dates in the HR system and coordinate timely employee contract renewals to ensure completion prior to contract expiry.
- Respond to employee queries and provide timely and professional assistance on HR-related matters.
- Maintain confidential employee relations records and assist with disciplinary and employee relations cases in accordance with HR policies and procedures.
- Assist with employee engagement initiatives, including surveys, recognition programs, wellness activities, and other initiatives designed to promote a positive work environment and enhance employee satisfaction.
- Coordinate security and permit clearances and related government documentation to support compliant and timely employee appointments in accordance with UAE requirements.
- Support Emiratization initiatives by maintaining NAFIS registration, tracking UAE National recruitment data, and monitoring progress against approved Emiratization plans.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee files, HRIS records, and confidential personnel documentation to ensure data accuracy, audit readiness, and accreditation compliance.
- Coordinate employee transfer processes, including required documentation, approvals, HRIS updates, and communication with relevant stakeholders.
- Assist with maintaining the Faculty and Staff Handbook and supporting HEDB (CHEDS) submissions by compiling approved HR policies and ensuring accurate and timely documentation.
- Ensure HR processes, records, and documentation comply with University policies, procedures, and applicable UAE Labor Law.
- Support HR reporting, data tracking, audits, accreditation requirements, and other HR administrative activities as assigned.
- Coordinate with Finance, Information Technology, academic and administrative departments, and other University offices to facilitate the timely completion of HR-related requirements.
- Maintain confidentiality and exercise appropriate discretion when handling employee records, personal information, employment documentation, and employee relations matters.
- Provide professional and timely HR support to employees, managers, candidates, and other internal and external stakeholders.
- Maintain effective communication with employees, line managers, the HR team, and relevant University offices to ensure the smooth delivery of HR services.
- Assist with HR projects, initiatives, employee activities, and other departmental programs as assigned.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Key Result Areas and Duties
- KRA 1: Performance Management and Professional Development Support (25%)
- KRA 2: Recruitment and Onboarding Support (20%)
- KRA 3: Employee Relations and Engagement (15%)
- KRA 4: Compliance, Emiratization, and Operational Support (20%)
- KRA 5: Employee Records and HR Administration (20%)
Essential:
Academic and Professional Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Management, or a related field from an accredited institution.
Desirable:
- Professional certification in Human Resources or a related field.
- Training or certification in HR practices, UAE Labor Law, or related areas.
Essential:
Work Experience
- 2–4 years of relevant experience in Human Resources, Administration, or Customer Service.
- Experience providing administrative or operational support in a professional environment.
- Internship experience in Human Resources is preferred.
Desirable:
- Experience working in a higher education institution or a similar professional environment.
- Experience with HRIS or other Human Resources information systems.
- Experience supporting recruitment, onboarding, performance management, employee engagement, or HR administration.
- Familiarity with UAE HR practices and employment requirements.
Skills And Knowledge
- Basic understanding of UAE Labor Law and HR practices.
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Strong organizational and administrative skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills and a professional, service-oriented approach.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive employee information with discretion.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize competing requirements, and meet established deadlines.
- Ability to maintain accurate HR records, reports, trackers, and documentation.
- Ability to coordinate effectively with employees, managers, candidates, and internal departments.
- Ability to follow established HR policies, procedures, and processes accurately.
- Good problem-solving and follow-up skills.
- Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.
- Service-oriented mindset with a willingness to learn and develop professionally.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy, professionalism, and a high level of service.
Language Proficiency Required
Fluent in English, written and spoken – essential.
Arabic – Preferred.
Working Relationships
AURAK Offices and Departments
- Senior Manager – HR
- Office of Human Resources
- Academic and Administrative Departments
- Line Managers
- Office of Finance
- Office of Information Technology
- Employees and New Joiners
- Other University Offices and Departments
External Stakeholders
- Government Authorities
- NAFIS
- Recruitment Agencies
- Training Providers
- Banks
- Candidates and New Employees
- Other External Service Providers and Stakeholders