Security Expert for ODIHR Election Observation Missions

Job Posting Organization:
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is a key institution of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), established to support OSCE participating States in fulfilling their commitments in the human dimension. ODIHR was founded in 1990 and has since been instrumental in promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across its member states. The organization operates in over 50 countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to enhancing democratic governance and protecting human rights. ODIHR's mission includes election observation, human rights monitoring, and providing assistance in the implementation of democratic reforms.

Job Overview:
The Security Expert position is a consultancy-based role aimed at providing critical security support for OSCE/ODIHR short-term field missions. The selected expert will be responsible for ensuring the safety and security of mission members during their assignments. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying potential security risks and developing appropriate protocols to mitigate these risks. The expert will work closely with mission leadership and other stakeholders to ensure that all security measures are in line with the OSCE Security Management System. The objective of this assignment is to facilitate ODIHR missions in the safest manner possible, ensuring that personnel, observers, and mission operations are adequately protected. The role demands a high level of expertise in security management, crisis response, and the ability to operate effectively in challenging environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Security Expert will be tasked with a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: collecting and assessing information regarding the security situation in the region of assignment; advising mission leadership on security-related matters; developing and implementing security procedures and protocols; maintaining communication with ODIHR’s Logistics and Security Officer and local security personnel; conducting assessments of field activities to identify vulnerabilities; establishing the Area Security Management Team (ASMT); formulating emergency evacuation plans; evaluating potential venues for mission headquarters; ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations; recruiting and supervising security personnel; maintaining emergency communication protocols; delivering security briefings to mission members; validating travel routes for security suitability; investigating incidents involving mission members; and contributing to internal mission reporting on security aspects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in intelligence, security management, emergency or crisis management, or an equivalent professional qualification. A minimum of seven years of relevant hands-on experience in security or crisis management is required, along with experience in protecting cash-in-transit operations. Candidates should have a thorough understanding of the duty of care concept, at least two years of experience in developing security protocols, and the ability to work under pressure and irregular hours. Familiarity with secure communications and tracking tools used in international missions is essential, as well as strong interpersonal and communication skills. Supervisory experience of at least two years is also required, along with excellent written and oral communication skills in English. Knowledge of local or regional languages is considered a strong asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first-level university degree in a relevant field such as intelligence, security management, emergency management, or crisis management. Alternatively, candidates may present equivalent professional qualifications from recognized certification or diploma awarding bodies, such as ASIS International or ISMI. Military or police educational institutions may also be accepted in lieu of a university degree, provided they meet the necessary standards.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in security or crisis management, with a proven track record of working in challenging environments. Experience in protecting cash-in-transit operations is specifically mentioned as a requirement. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of experience in developing and formulating security protocols and plans, demonstrating their capability to manage security effectively in various contexts.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and oral communication skills required. Knowledge of local or regional languages relevant to the deployment context is considered a strong asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments.

Additional Notes:
The position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) or as a consultant role, with no specific grade assigned. The contract duration will vary depending on the length of the mission assignment. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Remuneration will be in accordance with established OSCE election consultancy rates, and travel expenses along with a standard per diem will be covered by ODIHR in line with OSCE travel policies. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.