People working for the UN are lucky to enjoy numerous benefits, like high salaries, lots of new skills and knowledge. Salary is one of the main factors that makes UN jobs attractive to people of different interests and ages. The UN salary scale is characterized by different salaries for different categories of workers. Understandably, those jobs that require more experience and higher education levels are paid better. Besides, sometimes the salary depends on the area. So, if you are interested in getting a job in the UN, you should consider not only your skills and readiness for such a job but also salary. 

un salary scale

UN Salary Scale: Salaries and Categories

As it was previously mentioned, the salary depends on the category, so let’s have a look at what you’ll have working in different categories. 

  1. Professional and higher categories. Working in this category, people usually get from 37,000$ to 123,000 US$ (depending on the level). Specialists for professional and higher categories are recruited nationally, so it will also influence the sum of money you’ll get. 
  2. General services. Those looking for such a position should understand that such specialists are recruited locally, so the salary will depend on a local salary scale. Health insurance and 30 days of vacation are included. 
  3. National professional officers. Salaries for this category may differ greatly, as national professional officers are also recruited locally. The UN is responsible for providing competitive salaries, so salary scales are renewed on a regular basis. Health insurance and vacations are also provided. 
  4. Field services. Candidates for this category are recruited internationally. So, the amount of money you will get depends on the duty station. Usually, people working in the field services category are paid a minimum salary and a post adjustment. The salary varies from 31,000 to 90,000 US$ depending on the level of a worker (entry-level, mid-career, and senior-level professionals). 

UN Salary Scale: All Factors Influencing Your Salary

Those dreaming about a job in the UN should certainly pay attention to the UN salary scale to understand what to expect. It is influenced by several factors, including the working category (working as an entry-level professional, you will get less than more experienced workers), either you are a national/international worker. Another factor influencing salary is the type of contract. There are short-term and long-term contracts, and salaries for those are different. And last, but not least – your duty station. In any case, working for the UN is not only about earning money, but it’s also about self-realization in any field of your choice, so it’s definitely worth it.

UN Salary Scale: What to Expect?