“Resume specialist” is not a standard, dedicated job title within non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The functions associated with reviewing and screening resumes are typically part of a broader Talent Acquisition Specialist, Recruiter, or Human Resources (HR) Specialist role.
Requirements for these roles in NGOs emphasize traditional HR skills along with a strong alignment with the organization’s mission and values.
Common Requirements
Experience in Talent Acquisition or HR: Candidates generally need several years of experience in full-cycle recruiting, human resources, or staffing. Experience within the non-profit or international development sector is often a significant asset.
Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Communications, or a related field is commonly required.
Technical Skills:
Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) proficiency: Experience using various ATS, job boards, and other HR software is essential for managing the application process efficiently.
Data Analysis: Ability to track, analyze, and report on key recruitment metrics (e.g., time-to-hire, source of hire) to identify bottlenecks and improve processes.
Core Competencies:
Communication Skills: Outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English are a given, with proficiency in additional languages often a major advantage, especially for international NGOs.
Intercultural Competence: Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and across different cultural contexts is vital.
Stakeholder Management: Experience working with hiring managers across different departments to understand their staffing needs and build relationships with applicants.
Knowledge of Labor Legislation: Understanding relevant labor laws and recruitment best practices is necessary to ensure compliance.
Mission Alignment: NGOs look for professionals who are passionate about their cause and can demonstrate commitment to humanitarian work or social impact. Resumes should highlight volunteer work or professional experience that aligns with the organization’s mission.
Key Job Duties
The duties for a talent acquisition role in an NGO typically include:
Developing and implementing policies and strategies for acquiring new talent.
Managing the entire screening process, including resume screening and initial interviews.
Sourcing candidates through various channels such as job boards, social media, and professional networks.
Coordinating logistics for interviews, managing paperwork, and facilitating communication with candidates.
Ensuring “Safer Recruitment” practices and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
For more information on general NGO careers and job postings, you can consult specialized job boards like Idealist or ReliefWeb.