Field Security Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, UNESCO operates in more than 190 countries, focusing on building peace in the minds of men and women. The organization emphasizes the importance of education, cultural heritage, and freedom of expression as fundamental human rights and essential components for sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Field Security Assistant position at UNESCO is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of its personnel in Sudan. The role involves working under the guidance of the Head of Office and the UNESCO Representative to Sudan, while also coordinating with the Regional Security Officer. The assistant will be responsible for implementing security operations and addressing all matters related to safety and security for UNESCO staff. This includes maintaining the Security Plan, assessing security situations, and providing updates to the Head of Office. The position requires a proactive approach to security management, including the identification of emergency communication needs and conducting security evaluations for both staff residences and offices. The assistant will also play a key role in organizing training courses on security awareness and preparedness, supporting actions during the implementation of the Security Plan, and maintaining confidential correspondence and documentation. The role demands a high level of responsibility and the ability to respond effectively to emergencies or crises that may impact UNESCO operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Field Security Assistant will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Liaising and coordinating with the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), other UN agencies, and local government security organizations.
• Assisting in the maintenance and updating of the Security Plan and staff lists.
• Supporting the implementation of Security Risk Management measures at the duty station.
• Assessing the security situation and providing timely updates to the UNESCO Head of Office.
• Identifying needs for Emergency Communications equipment.
• Conducting security evaluations and advising on security measures for UNESCO staff residences and offices.
• Organizing training courses on security issues and preparedness.
• Supporting actions during the implementation of the Security Plan as required.
• Maintaining routine and confidential correspondence files and documents. 1
• Following up on access control for UNESCO offices in various locations within the country. 1
• Supporting field missions as necessary. 1
• Maintaining a database of all security incidents and completing reports as required. 1
• Assisting in conducting security and safety-related investigations in coordination with the Head of Office and UNESCO Field Security. 1
• Responding to emergencies or crises involving UNESCO operations, staff, and assets. 1
• Keeping records of the issuance and return of UNESCO ID cards. 1
• Performing other security-related tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, a minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in security is required, ideally within military, police, or related fields. Prior experience within the United Nations system is highly desirable. A Field Security Associate (FSA) certification is strongly preferred and considered an asset. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to the ideals of the United Nations Charter and the organization's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a high school diploma or equivalent. This foundational education is essential for understanding the basic principles of security operations and management, as well as for effective communication and coordination with various stakeholders in the security domain.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in security, ideally within military, police, or related fields. Experience within the United Nations system is highly desirable, as it provides familiarity with the unique security challenges and protocols associated with UN operations. Candidates with a background in diplomatic security or protection will be viewed favorably, as this experience is relevant to the responsibilities of the Field Security Assistant.

Languages:
Fluency in both Arabic and English is required for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with local authorities, UN agencies, and UNESCO personnel. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is a Service Contract at Level SC-05, with a duration of 5 months, renewable based on satisfactory performance and budget availability. The position is open to both internal and external candidates, but only those entitled to work in Sudan are eligible to apply. The role may require travel within Sudan as needed. Candidates must complete an online application by the deadline of 27 August 2026, and the selection process may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and encourages individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply. All applications will be treated confidentially, and the statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years.