National Security Officer (NSO)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Papua New Guinea focuses on enhancing the country's capacity for inclusive, pro-poor growth, effective governance, and sustainable development. Established to support national and sub-national implementation of various activities, UNDP leverages its technical, coordination, and administrative strengths to provide integrated policy advice and quality assurance. The organization operates within a framework that emphasizes security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, ensuring that personnel and operations are protected, particularly in unstable environments. UNDP collaborates with the Host Government and other security partners to maintain a robust security framework that supports its mission across the country.

Job Overview:
The National Security Officer (NSO) plays a crucial role in supporting security management and policy guidance to facilitate effective UNDP program delivery throughout Papua New Guinea. Reporting to the Deputy Resident Representative (DRR), the NSO is responsible for ensuring compliance with UN and UNDP security policies while minimizing risks to personnel and operations. The NSO will advise on the integration of security considerations into design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation, maintain a network of local and national security personnel, and work closely with various stakeholders, including the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) and other UN agencies. This position requires a proactive approach to security risk management, including conducting assessments, identifying security needs, and implementing risk mitigation measures. The NSO will also contribute to the development of security plans and provide training to UNDP personnel on security protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The NSO's responsibilities include providing security management support, advising on security costs in programming, conducting security risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with UN security frameworks. The NSO will collaborate with UNDSS to develop and maintain security and contingency plans, provide security orientation and training to personnel, monitor security compliance, and represent UNDP's security interests in common premises. The NSO will also produce security reports, coordinate responses to security incidents, and maintain communication with security partners. Additionally, the NSO will contribute to inter-agency security coordination efforts and participate in knowledge networks to enhance security practices within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Management, or a related Security field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two years of relevant work experience will be considered. A formal multi-year education in security management, such as military or police Command and Staff College, is also acceptable. Formal training in security risk management is an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to work collaboratively, and a commitment to maintaining high security standards.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field is required, or a first-level university degree with additional qualifying work experience. Candidates with formal multi-year education in security management will also be considered. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in security principles and practices, enabling the NSO to effectively manage security risks and contribute to the safety of UNDP personnel and operations.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of relevant security experience is required for candidates with a master’s degree, or four years for those with a bachelor’s degree or formal multi-year security management education. Experience in conflict or crisis environments is advantageous, as is previous work with UN organizations or international NGOs. Familiarity with the UN Security Management System and the programming cycle is also beneficial, as it will enhance the candidate's ability to navigate the complexities of security management within the UNDP framework.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Tok Pisin is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders, including local security personnel, UN staff, and community leaders. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is open exclusively to Papua New Guinea Nationals. The role is full-time and may involve working in various locations across the country, depending on the security needs of UNDP operations. The successful candidate will undergo a probationary period as part of the employment process. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and maintains a strict policy against harassment and discrimination.