International Consultant - Cybercrime Investigation Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs and international crime. Established in 1997, UNODC operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to promoting justice, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and human rights. The organization focuses on various areas including drug control, crime prevention, and criminal justice reform, with a mission to assist member states in their efforts to combat drug trafficking and organized crime, while also addressing emerging threats such as cybercrime.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant - Cybercrime Investigation Expert is crucial for enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in Africa to combat online child sexual exploitation and abuse (OCSEA). The consultant will work under the supervision of the Cybercrime Policy Advisor and the Coordinator for Africa, Global Programme on Cybercrime. The role involves conducting training sessions for investigators, developing curricula on cybercrime investigation, and facilitating workshops aimed at improving the skills and knowledge of criminal justice practitioners. The consultant will also support the integration of cybercrime investigation techniques into existing law enforcement frameworks, ensuring that investigators are equipped to handle the complexities of cybercrime in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks including: A. Conducting one training session for investigators on techniques to investigate OCSEA, including a train-the-trainer component for criminal justice authorities in Benin; B. Facilitating a similar training session for Togo; C. Developing and adopting a comprehensive curriculum on cybercrime and OCSEA investigation to be delivered at a police training academy in a selected francophone African country; D. Supporting the connection and understanding of NCMEC cybertips or Child Rescue Coalition Reports in the selected country; E. Organizing a regional training for criminal justice practitioners on OCSEA investigations and best practices; F. Leading a regional workshop focused on specialized units dealing with OCSEA in a francophone African country. The consultant will also be expected to provide ongoing technical assistance and capacity building to ensure sustainable improvements in cybercrime investigation capabilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in fields such as computer science, digital forensics, cybersecurity, or related areas. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience in leading cybercrime investigations, particularly in the exploitation of digital evidence, is required. Experience in training law enforcement agencies on cybercrime investigations is essential, while experience interacting with governmental agencies and work experience in Africa are desirable. Additional certifications in cybercrime investigation or digital forensics are also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in computer science, telecom networks, digital forensics, information technology, programming, cybersecurity, or a related field. A first-level university degree in similar fields, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background is critical for understanding the technical aspects of cybercrime and the methodologies used in investigations.

Experience:
The position requires at least 4 years of relevant professional experience in leading cybercrime investigations. This includes a strong background in the exploitation of digital evidence and technical expertise in evaluating electronic devices. Candidates should have experience in providing training to law enforcement agencies and criminal justice authorities, which is essential for the role. Experience working with governmental agencies and in the African context is also desirable, as it will enhance the consultant's ability to navigate the specific challenges faced in the region.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and French is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Candidates must demonstrate oral and written proficiency in French, as it is essential for effective communication with stakeholders in francophone countries. Knowledge of another UN language is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate broader communication and collaboration within the UN system.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based with travel to Africa required for training and workshops. The expected duration of the consultancy is from September 1, 2026, to July 15, 202

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This policy ensures that the recruitment process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.