Security Officer - Physical Security (Premises)

Security Officer - Physical Security (Premises)

International Monetary Fund (IMF)

February 10, 2026March 27, 2026Washington DcUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is an international organization established in 1944 with the mission to promote global economic stability and growth. The IMF has a workforce of approximately 2,700 employees and operates in 190 countries. Its primary focus is to provide financial assistance, policy advice, and technical assistance to its member countries, helping them to achieve macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth. The organization plays a crucial role in the global economy by monitoring economic trends, providing financial support during crises, and facilitating international trade and investment.

Job Overview:
The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Officer - Physical Security (Premises) position at the IMF is a critical role that involves supporting the implementation of physical security standards for IMF overseas premises. This position is under the direction of the Chief of the International Security Section and requires collaboration with the Senior Security Officer (Ops). The officer will provide day-to-day operational security input to Global Real Estate (GRE) projects and assist in the continuous improvement of physical security practices. The role encompasses overseeing complex security risk assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, and recommending mitigation measures. The officer will also support ongoing real estate projects with security input and ensure compliance with IMF and UN security requirements for all overseas facilities. Additionally, the role includes providing technical operational and advisory support on premises security to overseas offices and contributing to the IMF's capacity to prepare for and respond to emergencies. This is a contractual position for two years, with the possibility of renewal for a maximum of four years, and requires international travel of 20-25% per year.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Security Officer - Physical Security (Premises) include conducting comprehensive physical security and safety risk assessments for existing and planned IMF premises, identifying security vulnerabilities, and recommending appropriate mitigation measures and design solutions. The officer will support the development and refinement of IMF physical security policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), contingency plans, and the IMF Physical Security Guidelines. They will manage security design and installation projects from conception through completion, collaborating with various stakeholders including GRE Section, project design teams, Regional Security Advisors (RSAs), Country Security Specialists (CSS), and the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS). The officer will review and evaluate project documentation and security design specifications to ensure feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with IMF and UN requirements. They will serve as a technical authority during project fit-out and installation phases, providing on-site oversight as needed. The officer will oversee the design and integration of physical and electronic security systems, including access control, surveillance, and safe-room features. They will lead and participate in client and project meetings to guide security-related decision-making and ensure alignment with project objectives. Additionally, the officer will liaise with security counterparts from the World Bank, UN agencies, host-country authorities, and U.S. and foreign government security organizations to share best practices and coordinate risk-mitigation activities. They will participate in physical security planning and assessment missions, serving as a technical advisor to key stakeholders, and provide operational support and guidance to overseas staff, offices, and residences. The officer will also conduct post-occupancy compliance monitoring and recommend improvements to ensure ongoing safety and alignment with the IMF’s Field Security Preparedness Program. Other responsibilities may be assigned by the Section Chief for International Security.

Required Qualifications:
The minimum qualifications for the Security Officer - Physical Security (Premises) position include educational development typically acquired through the completion of an advanced university degree or equivalent in international relations, political science, security risk management, or a related field. Alternatively, a university degree or equivalent supplemented by a minimum of six years of progressively responsible professional experience is acceptable. The candidate must possess highly proficient written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to speak comfortably in front of large audiences. Outstanding written and oral communication skills, along with proven customer service, interpersonal, and organizational skills, are essential. The candidate should have a track record of managing physical security-related projects, with experience in security integration, design, consulting, or engineering, particularly in designing electronic and physical security systems. Experience working with security and safety services within the United Nations System or similar international organizations is preferred. The candidate should demonstrate experience in multicultural working environments and the ability to work productively in both team and individual settings. Security and project management certifications from the UN, ASIS, or similar professional organizations are preferred, as is experience in creating and managing electronic databases. The successful candidate must be able to interpret and provide guidance based on an understanding of the operational requirements of the IMF and perform duties with minimal supervision. Experience in briefing and interacting with senior officials who are not security professionals is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Security Officer - Physical Security (Premises) position includes an advanced university degree or equivalent in fields such as international relations, political science, security risk management, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a university degree or equivalent, combined with significant professional experience in relevant areas, is acceptable. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of international security and risk management in a global context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of progressively responsible professional experience in security risk management, project management, or related fields. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing physical security-related projects, with specific experience in security integration, design, consulting, or engineering. Experience working within the United Nations System or similar international organizations is preferred, as is demonstrated experience in multicultural environments and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in foreign languages such as French, Spanish, or Arabic is desirable and would be considered an asset in this role, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and contributing to the IMF's international operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is a 2-year contractual role, with the possibility of renewal for a maximum of four years. It requires international travel of approximately 20-25% per year. The IMF is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and adheres to the principle that employment, classification, promotion, and assignment of staff shall be made without discrimination against any person. The organization welcomes requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process, and information on how to request accommodations will be provided during the application process.
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