Security Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Safety Service Section of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), which is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations. ECLAC was founded in 1948 with the mission to contribute to the economic and social development of the region. The organization focuses on designing, monitoring, and evaluating public policies, providing advisory services, expertise, and training to governments, and supporting regional and international cooperation. The United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) oversees the security management system globally, ensuring the safe delivery of UN programs in challenging environments. ECLAC aims to create a diverse and dynamic work environment that contributes to peace, security, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Security Officer position entails performing armed security functions under the overall command of the Chief of Service. The officer will be responsible for protecting the lives of individuals within the UN complex and safeguarding UN property. This includes providing security coverage at entry points, enforcing UN policies, screening personnel and vehicles, and maintaining communication systems. The role requires vigilance in monitoring for potential security breaches and responding to emergencies. The Security Officer will also prepare reports, maintain logs, and provide information to visitors and staff. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience in security operations while contributing to the UN's mission of promoting peace and security.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Security Officer will have a range of duties including: protecting individuals and property within the UN complex, enforcing safety and security regulations, screening all personnel and vehicles entering the premises, monitoring communication systems, responding to emergencies, maintaining logs of events, preparing work schedules, providing directions to visitors, controlling traffic, and reporting any security breaches or unusual activities. The officer will also ensure that all UN property being removed from the complex is properly documented and may be required to perform additional related duties as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. They are required to hold valid host country licenses for type B vehicles and must attach a valid motor vehicle permit to their application. Knowledge of United Nations Security policies and procedures is essential, along with sound judgment in applying technical expertise. The ability to communicate effectively and respond to inquiries is also crucial. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and client orientation in their work.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree or higher may have their minimum experience requirement reduced to none, indicating that higher education is valued in this role.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in armed security operations is required. This includes experience in civilian police forces, military police, or relevant military operations. Candidates with experience in emergency procedures, handling dangerous objects, and self-defense techniques will be preferred. Experience working for international organizations or UN entities is desirable, as is experience in providing training on emergency procedures.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is required for this position, along with knowledge of English. The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French, while Spanish is specifically a working language for ECLAC. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in Spanish and have a good understanding of English to fulfill the role's requirements.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year and is subject to local recruitment rules. Applicants must be authorized to work for the United Nations in the duty station. Those selected from outside the duty station will be responsible for relocation expenses. Local recruits are not eligible for international allowances or benefits. Candidates must be between 22 and 45 years old at the time of application, with exceptions for current UNDSS personnel. The role requires physical fitness, as candidates must pass a physical fitness and psychological evaluation. The position may involve working shifts, including weekends and holidays, and candidates must adhere to the Service Dress and Bearing manual. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages female candidates to apply.