Security Specialist (Polio)

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a passionate workforce dedicated to serving children and communities globally, and it fosters a culture of inclusivity and growth, providing attractive compensation and benefits packages.

Job Overview:
The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Specialist role is crucial for the Polio Eradication Initiative in Karachi, where the incumbent will report to the Programme Manager-Polio and work closely with senior security leadership. This position is responsible for advising on security duties in alignment with UN and UNICEF Security Management Systems. The Specialist will conduct high-quality security risk analysis and develop mitigation strategies to ensure access to disadvantaged children in high-risk areas. The role involves managing polio-related security activities from the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) and implementing security measures in collaboration with the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) and NGO partners. The Specialist will also analyze security-related factors affecting vaccination access and provide operational support to facilitate effective program implementation, working closely with provincial Polio teams, security personnel, and government counterparts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Security Specialist include advising leadership on security protocols, conducting security risk assessments, developing and implementing security measures, managing security activities related to polio eradication, collaborating with various stakeholders including UN agencies and NGOs, and providing operational support to ensure the safety of vaccination efforts. The Specialist will also be responsible for preparing security reports, analyzing security trends, and recommending actions to mitigate risks. Additionally, the role requires participation in security meetings, training staff on security protocols, and maintaining communication with local authorities and security agencies to ensure a coordinated response to security challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields related to analysis management, risk management, business administration, political/social science, psychology, or international relations. Recognized training in Security Management is essential, and completion of a military or police advanced staff college course may substitute for a formal degree. Proven experience in security analysis and information management, particularly within the UN security management system, is required, along with experience in emergency and high-risk environments. Skills in intelligence analysis, database management, strategic reporting, and crisis operations are also necessary.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree is required, focusing on disciplines such as risk management, business administration, political/social science, psychology, or international relations. Recognized training in Security Management is also necessary, and military or police training may be accepted in lieu of a formal degree if deemed equivalent.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in security analysis and information management is required. Candidates should have experience within the UN security management system or in recognized police or military roles, as well as experience in emergency and high-risk environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Urdu is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is desirable, and familiarity with local languages is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Karachi and is focused on full-time engagement. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates may be subject to medical clearance and must meet vaccination requirements as part of the hiring process. UNICEF does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children.