Consultant - Canine (K9) Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is a regional security organization established in 197

• It has 57 participating States and operates in various countries across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The OSCE's mission is to promote peace, stability, and democracy through a comprehensive approach to security that encompasses politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects. The OSCE Secretariat, located in Vienna, provides operational and administrative support to the field operations and assists the decision-making bodies in their activities. The organization is known for its commitment to consensus-based decision-making and its focus on addressing a wide range of security-related concerns.

Job Overview:
The OSCE is seeking a consultant to provide expertise and advisory services related to the development and enhancement of canine (K9) capacities within law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in the OSCE region. This consultancy assignment is temporary, with a maximum duration of up to 180 working days per calendar year, and involves both home-based work and fieldwork, including travel within the OSCE region. The consultant will be responsible for delivering training in product scent detection, developing specific skills for Frontex-certified handlers, and ensuring the implementation of operational standards for canine teams. The consultant will work under the supervision of the FSC Support Unit Project Officers and will contribute to strengthening the capacities of Ukrainian authorities in combating illicit trafficking in weapons, ammunition, and explosives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with delivering training in accordance with FRONTEX methodology for product scent detection, developing the necessary skills for handlers to become Frontex-certified, and ensuring that canine team operational standards are met for deployment in Frontex joint operations. Additionally, the consultant will provide support to beneficiary LEAs by identifying gaps in their current capabilities and offering advisory support and recommendations for improvement. This may involve conducting remote and face-to-face consultations with stakeholders, as well as performing any other tasks related to K9 training activities as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school degree in police, security, military sciences, veterinary sciences, or a related field. A minimum of five years of professional experience at both national and international levels is required, with progressively responsible experience in technical assistance activities. Candidates should have proven expertise in K9 capabilities, particularly in the context of explosives, ammunition, and small arms detection. Accreditation to deliver training in line with FRONTEX methodologies is essential, along with excellent analytical skills and a strong understanding of the operational requirements related to small arms investigations. The ability to maintain effective working relationships with diverse individuals and integrate a gender perspective into tasks is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a high school diploma or equivalent (GED) in relevant fields such as police, security, military sciences, veterinary sciences, or similar disciplines. This foundational education is critical for understanding the complexities of K9 training and operational standards.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience, which should include a mix of managerial, legal, operational management, and technical advisory support roles. This experience should be gained in both national and international contexts, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and best practices in K9 training and operations.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and spoken communication skills. Knowledge of other OSCE languages is considered an asset, and familiarity with local languages in the geographical areas of OSCE practical assistance projects in South Eastern Europe, Eastern Europe, South Caucasus, and Central Asia would be advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is part-time and operates under a Special Service Agreement (SSA). The contract duration will be defined within each individual contract at the time of conclusion, based on the necessary tasks. Remuneration will be determined based on the consultant's qualifications, experience, and the specific tasks and deliverables associated with the position, in accordance with OSCE established rates. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct and integrity among its officials.