Close Protection Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH), which was established to provide support primarily to the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), the Haitian National Police (HNP), and the Haitian Armed Forces. UNSOH is also tasked with delivering technical assistance to the Organization of American States (OAS). The organization operates with a mission to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and stability in Haiti, particularly in the context of joint operations with local security forces. The UNSOH plays a crucial role in coordinating international support and ensuring the safety of UN personnel and operations in the region.

Job Overview:
The Close Protection Officer at the FS-6 level serves as the Close Protection Coordinator, reporting directly to the Chief Security Officer (CSO). This role involves the coordination and operational oversight of close protection activities, ensuring the safety and security of Senior UN Officials and other designated personnel. The Close Protection Coordinator is responsible for maintaining communication with the Protection Coordination Unit of the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) regarding close protection standards and procedures. The position requires a proactive approach to threat assessment, risk management, and the implementation of security measures to mitigate identified threats. The Close Protection Officer must develop and execute operational plans, conduct training for the Close Protection Team, and ensure that all operations adhere to UN policies and guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Close Protection Officer will carry out a comprehensive set of duties including: coordinating and managing the Close Protection Team (CPT) in line with UN policies; gathering and analyzing information relevant to close protection activities; preparing threat assessments and security-related reports; implementing mitigation strategies to ensure the safety of UN officials; developing operational plans and coordinating close protection operations; liaising with Haitian authorities and other security elements; accompanying Senior UN Officials during travel; preparing operational reports; ensuring effective close protection coverage; determining equipment and logistical needs; conducting training and evaluations for team members; managing duty schedules; identifying gaps in capabilities; and maintaining documentation and records of close protection activities. The role demands frequent interaction with various stakeholders including UN officials, security personnel, and local authorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Certification and proficiency in the use of mission-authorized weapons systems such as G36, MP5, and Glock are required. Technical training in military or police procedures, as well as training in close protection and self-defense techniques, is essential. Relevant training in the UNDSS Close Protection Officers Course or an equivalent internationally recognized program is mandatory. Specialized training in High Threat Protection Operations is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of security policies and procedures, particularly those relevant to the mission area.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Additional qualifications such as certifications in close protection training and proficiency in the use of authorized weapons systems are essential. Candidates with further education, particularly in security management or related fields, may have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in military, police, or security management is required. This experience is reduced to five years for candidates with a first-level university degree. Candidates must have at least eight years of experience in managing, coordinating, or supervising close protection operations, including experience as a Close Protection Team Leader or equivalent. Experience in high-risk or conflict environments at the international level is essential, along with proficiency in the use of close protection weapons. Experience supporting close protection operations in Haiti or similar environments is also required, along with experience in developing operational plans and emergency response arrangements.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French and Creole Haiti are desirable, with French also requiring a minimum proficiency of UN Level II. Proficiency in Creole Haiti at UN Level I is considered an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the local context.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and the appointment may be terminated or adjusted based on various factors such as budgetary approval or mission mandate extensions. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The role may involve shifts and requires physical fitness and emotional stability. Candidates must adhere to the United Nations' standards of integrity and efficiency, and those with prior violations of law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law or misconduct may not be considered for employment. The application process does not involve any fees, and candidates are advised to follow all instructions carefully during the recruitment process.