Security Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO operates globally to address health issues and improve health outcomes. The organization focuses on various health-related areas, including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response, ensuring that health services are accessible to all.

Job Overview:
The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Officer position within WHO is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of WHO personnel and property. The role is part of the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) and emphasizes a proactive approach to security risk management. The Security Officer will be responsible for assessing security situations in WHO operational areas, recommending improvements, and providing security training to staff. The incumbent will work closely with UNDSS desk officers and undertake missions to assist WHO staff in unsafe areas, ensuring that the organization can deliver its humanitarian mandate effectively. The position requires a strong commitment to the duty of care for staff and partners, focusing on risk mitigation and the implementation of safety measures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Security Officer will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: reviewing security and safety situations in all WHO areas of operations and recommending measures for improvements; liaising frequently with UNDSS desk officers in New York to exchange information and discuss security enhancements; undertaking missions to assist WHO staff in unsafe areas; conducting security assessments in the field to advise staff on addressing serious security and safety challenges; maintaining country files of security-related reports for continuous analysis; providing relevant analysis on security situations to HQ and field offices; maintaining records of hazardous duty stations and responding to queries regarding the Malicious Acts Insurance Policy; maintaining a database of residential security measures; participating in meetings at the policy level to advise on security issues; and providing security training for staff at both HQ and field levels.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced level university degree (Master's or equivalent) in security management or a related discipline such as business administration, political/social science, psychology, or international relations. Alternatively, a military or police academy degree at the officer level equivalent to an advanced university degree is acceptable. Essential qualifications also include at least 7 years of experience in disaster management, risk management, or security in public or private sectors, including a minimum of 3 years within the United Nations Security Management System. Direct field experience in international contexts, such as UN field operations or peacekeeping, is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) focused on security management or related fields. Candidates with military or police academy degrees at the officer level are also considered equivalent to an advanced university degree. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of security management in international settings.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in disaster management, risk management, or security, with at least 3 years specifically within the United Nations Security Management System. Candidates should have direct field experience in international contexts, such as UN system organization field operations or UN peacekeeping operations, which is essential for effectively addressing security challenges faced by WHO staff.

Languages:
Essential language skills include expert knowledge of English and intermediate knowledge of French. The language requirements are interchangeable, meaning that proficiency in either language is crucial for effective communication within the organization and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, starting with an annual base salary of USD 86,027, along with a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living in the duty station. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The appointment type for the selected candidate will be determined at the time of the offer, with current staff members retaining their appointment type. The recruitment process may involve a written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment. Candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their background, as WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce. The organization also emphasizes the importance of ethical standards and integrity in its hiring practices.