Field Security Assistant

Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Security Adviser (SA), the Local Security Assistant assists in the implementation of security operations and all matters relating to the management of safety and security for UN personnel in the country of assignment.

Summary of key functions:

• Assists the Security Adviser (SA) in collecting, updating and communicating information regarding the security situation in the country of assignment;
• Assists in maintaining the Security Plan(s), including updating staff lists;
• Supports the SA with the monitoring of the security measures implementation as recommended in the Security Risks Management (SRM) process for the Area of Responsibility (AoR);

• Assists in reporting security incidents affecting UN staff, offices and assets;
• Organizes and delivers training courses on security awareness and preparedness;
• Assists in monitoring the implementation of the Residential Security Measures, office safety and security preparedness;
• Provides general administrative assistance to the SA;
• Performs any other duties as assigned.

1. Assists the SA in collecting, updating and communicating information regarding the security situation in the country:

• Liaises and coordinates, as appropriate, with the host government security organizations and/or personnel, including national and local provincial authorities, military, and police officers, as well as non-governmental organizations and other non-State actors in the area of operation;

• Helps to assess the security situation at the duty station and ensures adequate gathering and verification of security information that may be required for a proper analysis of the situation by the SA;
• Communicates information on security to the heads of United Nations agencies and provides host country security advice to UNDSS in the absence of the SA, as required;
• Maintains regular contacts with Security Focal Points of UN agencies;
• May be requested to provide technical assistance at SMT meetings, in the absence of the SA.

2.  Assists in maintaining the Security Plan, including updating staff lists:

• Helps in the preparation and review of the UN Security Plan;
• Supports actions during the implementation of the Security Plan, as required.

3. Assists the SA in monitoring compliance with the arrangements of the Security Risk Management Measures (SRMMS) established for the AoR.

4.  Assists in reporting security incidents affecting UN staff, offices and assets, and assists in the preparation of security reports, such as the Security Incident Report, the Security Assessments.

5. Provides support in organizing and conducting training courses on security awareness and preparedness, and providing security orientation to newly assigned staff members. Conducts security briefings, as required.

6.  Performs other security-related tasks assigned by the SA:

• Provides support in conducting security evaluations and provides advice on security measures for the residences (Residential Security Measures - RSM) of UN staff, as well as on latest trends and threats to staff safety and security;
• Establishes and maintains warden system and keeps update of information related to UN offices and residences;
• Administers a pass and ID system;
• Maintains liaison with commercial companies used for UN security at offices and residences, in order to ensure the effective and efficient use of the guard force.

7.  Provides general administrative assistance to the SA:

• Maintains routine and confidential correspondence files/documents;
• Maintains a database on contact details in relation to host country security authorities;
• Arranges appointments, receives visitors, places and screens telephone calls and answers queries with discretion, and takes minutes and/or notes at meetings.

The key results have an impact on the accurate and timely implementation of the overall UN security programme at the country level.

Commitment to the ideals of the United Nations Charter and the Organization’s core values – Professionalism, Integrity and Respect for Diversity

Planning and Organizing: Demonstrated ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor his/her own work plan with minimum supervision. Ability to work under pressure or in crisis situations. Availability to travel within the area of responsibility.

Creativity: Ability to actively seek to improve services, offer new and different options to solve problems/meet client needs, and promote and persuade others to consider new ideas

Teamwork: Proven interpersonal skills and the ability to listen and work in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity

Communication: Proven and sustained communication (verbal and written) skills.

Education:

• Secondary education.  University Degree desirable, but it is not a requirement.

Experience:

• Minimum 6 years of experience in security or related field of work is required. Prior experience with the UN system or a governmental security institution is desirable.

Language Requirements:

• Fluency in Spanish and English is required.

Other Skills and Requirements:

• Knowledge of HF and VHF radio operation;

• Experience in diplomatic security and protection is desirable;
• Knowledge of host country safety and security protocols is desirable;
• Solid computers skills (MS Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint);
• Possession of a valid driver’s license is required;
• Ability to travel;
• Physically fit.

The candidate must have Mexican Nationality or be legally authorized to work in the country.

Important applicant information

All posts in the GS categories are subject to local recruitment.

Applicant information about UNDP rosters

Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Workforce diversity

UNDP is committed to achieving diversity within its workforce, and encourages all qualified applicants, irrespective of gender, nationality, disabilities, sexual orientation, culture, religious and ethnic backgrounds to apply. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.

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