Unit Head (Nuclear Security Detection Architecture)

Unit Head (Nuclear Security Detection Architecture)

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

January 30, 2026March 2, 2026ViennaAustria
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is an international organization that works to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and to prevent its use for military purposes. Established in 1957, the IAEA has a mission to ensure that nuclear energy is used safely and securely, protecting people and the environment from radiation exposure. The organization operates in over 170 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to nuclear safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security.

Job Overview:
The Unit Head (Nuclear Security Detection Architecture) is a pivotal role within the IAEA's Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. This position involves overseeing the coordination of program activities related to nuclear security detection architecture, which is essential for protecting against nuclear threats. The Unit Head will manage a team of nuclear security officers, prioritize and implement activities based on the needs identified by Member States, and ensure that the unit's objectives align with the IAEA's broader nuclear security program. The role requires a combination of technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to enhance nuclear security measures globally. The Unit Head will also be responsible for developing and reviewing nuclear security guidance, conducting advisory services, and facilitating training events to strengthen Member States' nuclear security capabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Unit Head will coordinate IAEA activities aimed at improving nuclear security detection architecture in Member States. This includes leading the development of guidance documents within the IAEA Nuclear Security Series, creating work plans to support Member States in enhancing their nuclear security regimes, and providing expert support to identify and recommend improvements for effective nuclear security systems. The Unit Head will also contribute to capacity building through training, workshops, and exercises, and will analyze inputs from Integrated Nuclear Security Sustainability Plans (INSSPs) to inform future project planning. Additionally, the Unit Head will represent the IAEA at national and international meetings, manage a nuclear security equipment laboratory, and oversee the team's performance to ensure alignment with the IAEA's quality management standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in nuclear science, engineering, or a related field. Alternatively, a university degree in these fields combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience in nuclear security is required, including at least three years in a managerial role. Proven experience in nuclear security detection architecture and activities involving nuclear and radioactive materials is essential, along with experience in leading technical teams and collaborating with national and international organizations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in nuclear science, engineering, or a closely related field. Candidates with a bachelor's degree in these areas may be considered if they have two additional years of relevant experience. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of nuclear security and the technical aspects of detection architecture.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience in the field of nuclear security, with at least three years in a managerial capacity. Candidates should have a strong background in nuclear security detection architecture and experience working with nuclear and radioactive materials. Experience in leading small teams and collaborating with various organizations is also necessary to effectively fulfill the responsibilities of this role.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written command of English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other official IAEA languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The IAEA offers an attractive remuneration package, including a tax-free annual net base salary starting at US $84,672, along with a variable post adjustment currently amounting to US $47,84
  • Additional benefits include dependency benefits, rental subsidies, education grants, relocation and repatriation expenses, six weeks of annual leave, home leave travel, a pension plan, and health insurance. The IAEA is committed to gender equality and encourages applications from qualified women and candidates from developing countries. Staff members are international civil servants and must adhere to the highest ethical standards, with a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and misconduct.
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