Senior Programme Manager - Counter-Terrorism Digital Forensics Expert (Retainer)

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is a central resource of the United Nations that supports partners in building a better future through efficient, effective, and sustainable project management, procurement, and infrastructure services. Established to enhance the delivery of humanitarian, peacebuilding, and development projects, UNOPS operates in approximately 125 countries, providing services to governments, donors, and UN organizations. The New York Portfolios Office (NYPO) specifically supports the UN Secretariat and other New York-based UN organizations, while the Sustainable Development Cluster (SDC) focuses on peacebuilding and development operations, combining various portfolios to serve global partners.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Manager - Counter-Terrorism Digital Forensics Expert will play a crucial role in supporting Member States in enhancing their digital forensics capabilities related to counter-terrorism. This position involves delivering high-level technical expertise, conducting assessments of capacity-building needs, and developing recommendations for improving evidence collection and case management procedures. The incumbent will design and deliver training activities, provide advisory services to national entities, and facilitate cooperation between various organizations on digital forensics and counter-terrorism efforts. The role requires a strong understanding of international legal standards and human rights principles, ensuring that all activities are compliant and effective in addressing the evolving threats of terrorism.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will undertake missions to consult with Member States, assess their capacity-building needs, and develop tailored recommendations for improving digital forensics practices. Responsibilities include designing and delivering technical assistance activities, providing mentorship to national entities, advising on the establishment of digital forensics laboratories, and facilitating information-sharing among organizations. The role also involves preparing high-quality written outputs such as analyses, training materials, and reports, while ensuring that human rights and gender perspectives are integrated into all work. The Programme Manager will work closely with the Cluster Head and the Head of the EU-UN Global Terrorism Threats Facility to align activities with the overall objectives of the Facility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Digital Forensics, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field, with at least ten years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) with twelve years of relevant experience is acceptable. Relevant experience includes work in digital forensics related to counter-terrorism and transnational organized crime, as well as experience in conducting digital investigations and delivering capacity-building activities. Knowledge of legal requirements for digital evidence handling and experience in law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law enforcement collaboration are desirable qualifications.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Digital Forensics, Computer Science, or Cybersecurity is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) is acceptable if accompanied by additional years of relevant experience. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their expertise in digital forensics and counter-terrorism.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in digital forensics, particularly in relation to counter-terrorism and complex investigations. Experience in conducting digital investigations, data recovery, and evidence collection is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in delivering training and capacity-building activities in digital forensics, as well as familiarity with international human rights law and legal frameworks governing digital forensics.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages such as Arabic, French, Russian, or Spanish is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered under an International Individual Contractor Agreement (IICA) on a retainer basis, with a contract level of IICA-

• The contract duration is until December 2025, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The duty station is home-based, with potential field deployments as needed. The retainer contract will specify a unit price per day worked, and payment will be made only after the completion of work. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and underrepresented groups. Background checks are mandatory for all potential personnel.