HR Specialist – Iraq

Location: Baghdad

Nationality: Iraqi Only

About Abwaab

Abwaab is a leading edtech company transforming the way students learn across the Middle East. We are on a mission to provide accessible, high-quality education through innovative digital solutions. As we continue to grow, we are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented HR Specialist to support and execute full-spectrum HR operations in Iraq.

Role Overview

The HR Specialist will be responsible for end-to-end HR operations, covering the full employee lifecycle, including recruitment, onboarding, HR administration, government relations, payroll coordination, employee relations, compliance, and administrative operations. This role ensures that all HR and admin processes are efficient, compliant with Iraqi labor laws, and aligned with business needs.

Key Responsibilities

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning

• Partner with hiring managers to understand hiring needs and workforce plans

• Coordinate and support full-cycle recruitment (posting, screening, interviews, offers)

• Ensure timely and effective hiring aligned with business goals

Onboarding & Offboarding

• Manage onboarding processes to ensure a smooth employee experience

• Handle offboarding processes including exit interviews, clearance, and documentation

• Ensure proper documentation and system updates for all employee movements

Employee Relations

• Act as the first point of contact for employee inquiries and concerns

• Support conflict resolution and employee relations cases

• Promote a positive work environment and employee engagement initiatives

Government Relations & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with Iraqi labor law and company policies

• Handle social security, residency documentation (if applicable), and government-related HR requirements

• Maintain compliance records and support audits when required

HR Operations & Administration

• Manage day-to-day HR operations and ensure accuracy of employee records

• Prepare, review, and maintain contracts, letters, and all HR documentation

• Maintain HR systems, trackers, and personnel files with high confidentiality

• Oversee attendance, leave management, and employee data updates

Compensation, Benefits & Payroll

• Support payroll preparation by validating employee data and changes

• Coordinate with finance and payroll vendors to ensure timely salary processing

• Administer employee benefits (medical insurance, allowances, etc.)

• Support compensation benchmarking and salary reviews

HR Policies & Organizational Development

• Support implementation and communication of HR policies and procedures

• Assist in performance management cycles and employee evaluations

• Identify training needs and support learning & development initiatives

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Manage relationships with external vendors (insurance, payroll, recruitment agencies)

• Monitor service quality and resolve operational issues

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across departments

Administration & Office Management

• Oversee office administration and ensure smooth daily operations

• Coordinate with suppliers, office maintenance, and service providers

• Manage office supplies, utilities, and workplace needs

• Support company events, meetings, and internal logistics

• Ensure a safe, organized, and productive work environment

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field

• 2–5 years of HR experience

• Iraqi nationality is required

• Strong knowledge of Iraqi labor law and HR practices

• Experience across multiple HR functions (operations, recruitment, employee relations, administration, etc.)

• Familiarity with HR systems (e.g., ZenHR, ATS, or similar)

• Fluency in Arabic and English

• Proficient with Google Sheets and MS Office

• Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills