Security Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of individuals who are committed to its mission. WFP's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, which guide its operations and interactions with partners and communities. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant role in addressing global hunger and food insecurity. The organization emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply. For more information, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org.

Job Overview:
The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Officer position at WFP is crucial for managing security operations that ensure the safety of personnel, activities, and facilities across the Amhara region of Ethiopia. This role involves supporting the management of security operations to facilitate effective program delivery that meets food assistance needs. The Security Officer will be responsible for developing security policies and procedures, conducting security assessments, and providing technical advice to enhance the capacity of security management within the organization. The position requires a proactive approach to analyzing security situations, particularly in conflict-affected areas, and necessitates strong communication and negotiation skills to secure operational guarantees in areas controlled by non-state armed groups. The Security Officer will also be involved in training and capacity-building initiatives for both WFP staff and external partners, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of security protocols and best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Security Officer will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: providing technical advice and support for security assessments and plans; developing systems for monitoring and assessing security situations; conducting context analysis in conflict-affected areas; communicating and negotiating security guarantees for WFP operations; advising on local security developments; maintaining effective security management communications; building relationships with local partners; collaborating with internal counterparts to ensure compliance with security policies; managing junior security staff; representing WFP at local and inter-agency meetings; facilitating training sessions; overseeing and preparing accurate reporting; supporting monitoring and evaluation of WFP activities; and acting in an emergency response capacity as required. This role demands a high level of independence and the ability to manage complex projects effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Security Management, International Relations, Law Enforcement, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be accepted. The position requires a minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in security operations functions, particularly in high-risk environments. Candidates should have experience supporting complex projects and operational activities that maintain security operations and contribute to strategic aims. Additionally, experience in emergency response and providing direction to junior staff is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Security Management, International Relations, or Law Enforcement. A first university degree may be acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant work experience and training. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of security management in humanitarian contexts and for developing effective security policies and procedures.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least three years of progressively responsible experience in security operations. This experience should include working in emergency response situations and high-risk operational capacities. Candidates should demonstrate their ability to manage security operations effectively and provide guidance to junior staff members. Experience in conducting security assessments and developing security strategies is also highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of the local language is considered an added advantage, as it can facilitate communication and enhance the effectiveness of security operations in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an International Consultant role with a contract duration of six months. The Security Officer will be stationed in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, and is expected to work full-time. The role involves significant responsibilities in a complex security environment, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges associated with working in conflict-affected areas. WFP offers an attractive compensation package, and the organization is committed to providing a diverse and inclusive work environment. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks to ensure the integrity of the recruitment process.