Digital Forensic Investigator

Digital Forensic Investigator

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

October 9, 2025October 15, 2025GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system and was established in 199
  • Its mission is to promote and protect human rights for all people, ensuring that international human rights standards are upheld. The organization operates globally, with a presence in various countries, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to advancing human rights issues. The OHCHR engages in numerous activities, including monitoring human rights situations, providing technical assistance, and supporting the implementation of international human rights treaties.

Job Overview:
The Digital Forensic Investigator position is a temporary role within the Investigative Support Section (ISS) of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. The incumbent will be responsible for collecting and analyzing electronic and digital evidence, including content from social networking sites. This role requires a strong understanding of digital forensics and the ability to verify and authenticate digital content. The investigator will support the analytical processes of investigations, ensuring that digital material is preserved according to established standards. The position also involves advising investigative bodies on the use of open source material and integrating gender perspectives into all areas of responsibility. The successful candidate will be expected to propose tools for analyzing complex data sets and ensure that all documentation related to investigations is handled and stored safely.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Digital Forensic Investigator will undertake a variety of duties, including: collecting and analyzing information and evidence in electronic formats; verifying and authenticating digital content; conducting forensic examinations and recording results; supporting investigations by preserving digital material; advising on the use of open source material; proposing analytical tools for complex data; ensuring safe handling and storage of investigation materials; integrating gender perspectives into responsibilities; and performing other related duties as required. The role demands a high level of professionalism, communication skills, and technological awareness, as well as the ability to manage conflicting priorities and work under pressure.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of theories and concepts relevant to investigations, with good research, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in software applications used in investigations is essential, along with the ability to gather evidence and interview subjects. Candidates should demonstrate good judgment, the ability to draft complex reports, and a comprehensive understanding of UN policies and procedures. The role requires a commitment to gender equality and the ability to work effectively in a diverse environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in data science, digital forensics, computer science, data privacy, conflict or security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security studies, international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">criminal law, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Formal qualifications or certifications in investigations and analysis are considered an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in data science, computer science, digital forensics, data privacy, conflict or security fields, or international criminal law is required. Experience in researching, collecting, analyzing, and verifying open source and social media content is desirable. Additionally, experience with international tribunals or UN investigative bodies, as well as in conflict or post-conflict settings, is preferred.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in English is required, and knowledge of Arabic is also required. Candidates must meet the minimum required level for reading, writing, listening, and speaking in these languages according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until December 31, 2025, subject to the availability of funds. Current staff members holding a fixed-term, permanent, or continuing appointment may apply for temporary positions no more than one level above their current grade. The selection process may include an assessment exercise followed by a competency-based interview. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.
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