Senior Security Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services), which was established to provide project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to help partners implement their projects effectively. UNOPS operates in over 80 countries and employs thousands of personnel worldwide, focusing on sustainable development and humanitarian assistance. The organization aims to support countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhancing their capacity to respond to crises and build resilience. UNOPS is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce, ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
The Senior security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Officer plays a crucial role within the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS), providing leadership and oversight to the UEMCO Security Team. This position is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of UNOPS personnel and operations in Ukraine, particularly in the context of the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the Russian invasion. The incumbent will work closely with the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director and the Senior Field Security Adviser to assess security risks, develop security plans, and implement safety protocols. The role requires a proactive approach to security management, including conducting risk assessments, advising on security measures, and coordinating with local authorities and security agencies. The Senior Security Officer will also be responsible for training UNOPS personnel on security protocols and ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Security Officer's duties include maintaining awareness of the security environment, advising the Country Director and project managers on safety and security matters, drafting security risk assessments, and providing technical oversight for security measures across all programs. The officer will review project proposals from a security perspective, conduct field assessments, and ensure the implementation of security policies and procedures. Responsibilities also include managing the security budget, maintaining personnel databases, leading incident response efforts, and coordinating security operations for events. The officer will facilitate security training for UNOPS personnel, supervise the security team, and promote knowledge sharing and capacity building within the organization. Regular reporting on security issues and maintaining communication with UNDSS and other security specialists are also key responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Security Management, Political or Social Sciences, Law, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in security risk management is required, with experience in the United Nations Security Management System considered a strong advantage. Candidates should demonstrate experience in producing security-related documentation such as Standing Operating Procedures, Security Risk Assessments, and Security Plans.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Security Management, Political or Social Sciences, Law, Public Administration, or Business Administration. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of relevant experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of security management within the context of international organizations and humanitarian operations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in security risk management. Candidates with experience in the United Nations Security Management System will have a competitive advantage. The role demands a strong understanding of security protocols, risk assessment methodologies, and the ability to develop and implement effective security strategies in challenging environments. Experience in managing security teams and conducting training programs is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of working with diverse teams and stakeholders in Ukraine and the surrounding region.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA), specifically at the International Individual Contractor Agreement (IICA3/ICS11) level. The contract duration is open-ended, subject to the availability of funds and satisfactory performance. UNOPS encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups in its workforce. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, aiming to create an equitable working environment for all employees. Candidates should be aware that UNOPS conducts background checks on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks. Additionally, all personnel are expected to adhere to the UN Charter and UNOPS policies, demonstrating an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in their work.