Operational Support Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The OSCE operates in 57 participating States across Europe, Central Asia, and North America, and has a comprehensive approach to security that encompasses politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to the principles of inclusivity and equal opportunity for all its members.

Job Overview:
The Operational Support Officer position is a critical role within the OSCE Secretariat's Conflict Prevention Centre (CPC), specifically in the Planning and Analysis Team (PAT). This position is focused on providing operational and methodological guidance on issues related to the conflict cycle, which includes early warning, early action, conflict prevention, crisis management, post-conflict rehabilitation, and peacebuilding. The officer will be responsible for developing concepts and plans to operationalize various phases of the conflict cycle, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of OSCE conflict cycle tools, and providing analytical support to senior management and the Chairpersonship. The role requires a proactive approach to analyzing geopolitical developments and recommending appropriate responses, as well as the ability to work with moderate autonomy while collaborating with various stakeholders within the OSCE framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operational Support Officer will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: supporting the development of operational and methodological advice related to the conflict cycle; serving as the focal point for the OSCE-wide Network of Early Warning Focal Points; providing methodological guidance on early warning processes; analyzing geopolitical trends and recommending responses; drafting briefs, speeches, and reports on operational issues; conducting debriefings with senior officials to identify lessons learned; coordinating support for the Annual Security Review Conference (ASRC); and performing other related tasks as assigned. The officer will also be involved in operational planning, updating guidelines and procedures, and ensuring that best practices are documented and shared within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in political science, international relations, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience will also be accepted. Additionally, a minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in international relations, political analysis, or a related field is required, with seven years being necessary if only a first-level degree is held. Candidates should have established expertise in early warning, conflict prevention, crisis management, and peacebuilding, along with excellent communication skills in English and knowledge of another official OSCE language being desirable. Strategic thinking, political acumen, and the ability to work effectively in a team are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree (second-level university degree) in political science, international relations, or a geo-political related field. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have additional relevant experience, specifically two years for each missing year of advanced education.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in international relations, political analysis, or related fields. Candidates with a first-level university degree must have at least seven years of experience. Experience in an international environment is considered an asset, and candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the conflict cycle and related methodologies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and oral communication skills. Knowledge of another official OSCE language is desirable, which may enhance a candidate's competitiveness for the position.

Additional Notes:
This position is a secondment opportunity, meaning that candidates must be nominated by their respective participating States. The OSCE does not cover costs related to the assignment, and candidates should verify with their authorities regarding financial remuneration and benefits. The position is full-time, with a fixed-term contract, and the maximum period of service in this role is ten years. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. Appointments are subject to medical clearance, and the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.