Security Communications Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) serves as the UN headquarters in Africa and acts as the representative office of the Secretary-General. Established to support the implementation of various UN programs, including the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Human Settlements Programme (UNHABITAT), UNON provides essential administrative, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, conference, and information services to other UN offices in Kenya. The organization is dedicated to ensuring the safe and effective delivery of UN system programs and activities, particularly in complex and challenging environments. UNON operates under a clear mission to enable UN system operations through trusted security leadership and solutions, and it plays a crucial role in the global leadership of security risk management principles.

Job Overview:
The Security Communications Officer position is critical within the UN Headquarters in Nairobi, specifically located in the Division of Field Operations, Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS). The incumbent will be responsible for supervising operational staff at the UN Security Operations Center, focusing on operational matters related to the UN Security Communications System (SCS). This role involves managing a country-wide call sign and Selcall allocation system, providing technical support to the Kenya UN ICT-Working Group, and ensuring the installation and repair of communications equipment. The officer will also be tasked with providing training and orientation on security communications to new users and operators, ensuring compliance with standard procedures, and maintaining efficient communication flows among all involved organizations and agencies. The position requires a proactive approach to managing security communications capabilities in support of staff security and ensuring the confidentiality of messages transmitted through the SOC/SCS system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Security Communications Officer include supervising operational staff at the UN Security Operations Center, managing the call sign and Selcall allocation system, providing technical support for security telecommunications equipment, and ensuring compliance with Minimum-Security Standards (MISTs). The officer will install and program Very High Frequency (VHF) and High Frequency mobile communications equipment, maintain telecommunications equipment, and provide training on radio handling and satellite mobile services. Additionally, the officer will ensure efficient communication and information flow, maintain logs for all communications, oversee the re-establishment of services in case of faults, prepare duty rosters, and liaise with other UN Security Operations Centers to maintain contact databases. The officer will also inform the Operations Officer about the Security Standard (TESS) status and assist with recommendations for upgrades.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent, along with additional training and recognized certificates in radio communications theory and practical radio telephony. The UNDSS Field Security Associate certification and certification from the Telecommunications Security Standards (TESS) are also required. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of radio networks, satellite equipment, and emergency communications services, as well as proficiency in computer skills. Professionalism, technological awareness, and strong planning and organizing skills are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of secondary education or a high school diploma. Additional training and recognized certificates in radio communications theory and practical radio telephony are mandatory. Candidates with a first-level university degree may have a reduced minimum experience requirement.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressive work experience in radio communications, telex, facsimile, and radio operations is required, with progressively responsible experience in the installation and maintenance of communication equipment. Candidates with a first-level university degree may have this requirement reduced by two years. Additionally, at least three years of experience in installing and programming VHF and HF mobile communications equipment is necessary. Desirable experience includes knowledge of safety and security rules used in the UN or similar organizations and experience as an Emergency Communications Centre/Supervisor in a UN Radio Room.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Kiswahili is desirable, also at UN Level II proficiency. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for detailed language skill requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is for an initial period of one year, with any extension subject to the availability of funds. The appointment is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.