Associate Operational Support Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is a prominent international organization that focuses on a comprehensive approach to security, addressing a wide range of security-related concerns including arms control, human rights, and economic and environmental activities. Established in 1975, the OSCE comprises 57 participating States, all of which enjoy equal status. The organization operates on a consensus basis, making decisions that are politically binding but not legally binding. The OSCE Secretariat, located in Vienna, plays a crucial role in supporting the Chairpersonship and providing operational and administrative support to field operations. The organization is dedicated to promoting peace, stability, and democracy across its member states, and it employs a diverse workforce to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The Associate Operational Support Officer position is integral to enhancing the OSCE's operational effectiveness and efficiency, particularly in crisis preparedness and response. The role involves contributing to timely operational planning and support, especially during the establishment, restructuring, or closure of OSCE field operations. The incumbent may be required to deploy temporarily to crisis areas to support the organization's operational response efforts. This position also entails developing conflict early warning trend analysis and providing analytical insights that inform policy and operational responses. The Associate Operational Support Officer will work closely with other members of the Operations Support Unit (OSU) to coordinate activities across various departments and sections within the Secretariat, as well as with OSCE field operations. The role includes facilitating crisis response simulations and supporting the development and exchange of operational lessons and best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Operational Support Officer include: assisting in operational planning and implementation activities in coordination with relevant departments and units; supporting crisis preparedness and response operational activities; reviewing and updating operational planning documents; designing and conducting crisis simulation exercises; coordinating after-action reviews and debriefings for senior OSCE officials; supporting analytical work on early warning methodologies; attending meetings and workshops on conflict cycle issues; and providing analytical and organizational support for the OSCE Chair and Secretariat on relevant matters. The incumbent will also be responsible for identifying lessons and best practices to enhance the effectiveness of OSCE policies and programs, thereby preserving institutional memory.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in political science, international relations, or a related field. A minimum of four years of progressively responsible professional experience in international relations, political analysis, operational planning, and coordination with government agencies or international organizations is required. Field experience in an international environment is considered a distinct asset. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of conflict cycle concepts and practical applications, as well as familiarity with relevant international efforts in these areas. Strong political acumen, research and analytical skills, and experience in operational planning methodologies are essential. Familiarity with technological tools for conflict analysis and operational planning is also advantageous. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory, and knowledge of another official OSCE language is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first-level university degree in political science, international relations, or a related field. This foundational education is essential for understanding the complexities of international relations and the operational challenges faced by the OSCE.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of progressively responsible professional experience in relevant fields. Candidates with a second-level degree may qualify with two years of experience. Field experience in an international context is highly valued, as it provides practical insights into the operational dynamics of international organizations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. Knowledge of another official OSCE language is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract at the P2 level, with a full-time schedule. The monthly remuneration is approximately EUR 6,100, subject to post adjustment and family status. OSCE salaries are exempt from taxation in Austria, and social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. Appointments are typically made at Step 1 of the OSCE salary scale, with the possibility of higher initial appointments in exceptional cases. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The maximum period of service in this post is seven years, and appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years.