Operations Specialist

1. Operations – design and planning

• Support the HPU in providing input to the CMAP on programme and project design documents from an operational and technical standpoint, such as:

  • Programme Strategy (e.g. vision, mission, strategic results framework, stakeholder analysis; risk analysis; resource mobilization strategy)

  • Workplan and Budget (e.g. nature of threat; technical personnel and equipment requirements, etc.)

  • Concept of Operations

  • Input into the documents above is from the operational and technical aspects encompassing mine action pillars (e.g. clearance, explosive ordnance risk education, victim assistance, advocacy and stockpile destruction)

  • Ensure that implementation plans have viable timelines, are assigned appropriate resources, and that implementation options reflect the knowledge of the context, as well as UNOPS’ mechanisms and policies; key implementation documents include:

  • UNMAS / UNOPS Project Agreements

  • Solicitation documents used to contract third-parties (i.e. contractors and grantees)

  • Human resources plans

2.    Operations – Implementation and monitoring 

• Ensure operations are conducted in accordance with UNOPS policies and standards, such as:

  • Financial and procurement rules

  • Contract and grant management policies

  • Project management standards

  • Health, safety, social and environmental standards

  • Gender parity and mainstreaming policies

  • Information management systems and standards

  • Organizational design standards and human resources policies

• Ensure operations are conducted in accordance with mine action technical standards, such as:

  • International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) and corresponding National Technical Specifications and Guidelines (NTSGs) 

  • International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG)

  • Modular Small Arms Control Implementation Compendium (MOSAIC)

• Coordinate and monitor mine action operations and performance (both operations conducted in-house and those conducted through third-party contractors and grantees), including:

  • Conduct and monitor  all operational tasking for within the project unit, including Deep Buried Bomb (DBB) clearance operations in Gaza.

  • Maintain close cooperation with the De Facto Authority (DFA) EOD Police and facilitate their activities, within resource availability and political constraints.

  • Support  the EOD Police on the maintenance of the Temporary Ammunition Store in Gaza.

  • Oversee survey and clearance tasks in UN premises and UNRWA project sites to ensure safety of UN and UNRWA project staff.

  • Provide support to the UNCT, UN and UNRWA Security teams on the management of ERW incidents

  • Conduct and participate in  tasking, coordination and reporting of Explosive Ordnance Risk Assessments at the request of Development Actors delivering infrastructure projects in Gaza.

  • Ensure third-party contracts and grants are delivered in accordance with contractual / grant terms and conditions, including in accordance with mine action technical, operational and quality assurance processes (Implementation Plan, SOPs, task orders issuance, accreditation).

  • Review all performance reports and populate internal monitoring and reporting mechanisms (i.e. grant and contract management plans) to inform the monthly payment process.

  • Ensure that the United Nations Gender guidelines for Mine Action is actioned and timely implemented and that the objectives in the gender and diversity strategy are mainstreamed within the Operations department.

  • Implement and oversee a robust quality management and information management system.

  • Maintain a risk management system focused on problem solving which ties into contract management awareness; maintain and utilize risk and issues logs.

  • Organize debriefing with the grantee/contractor to provide feedback on performance against deliverables and if necessary, discuss corrective actions to be taken in following months, recommend liquidated damages and/or lead dispute resolutions if necessary.

• Advise  the HPU on potential technical and operational issues that may impact the achievement of programme / project outcomes and appropriate solutions.

• Lead Boards of Inquiry as relevant.

• Ensure operational plans are cost effective and reviewed regularly.

• In support of the HPU, contribute to monitoring budgets/expenditure for over/under spend and adjust planning accordingly.

• In support of the HPU, ensure that the security management system is aligned to UN safety and security requirements relevant to mine action operations, including medical standards; keep abreast of relevant security environment

3.   Stakeholder management

• In support of the HPU, manage relationships with the CMAP and other direct UNOPS stakeholders, particularly around operational and technical issues

• In support of the HPU, upon request from the CMAP, engage national mine action authorities and/or relevant Government ministries for purposes of coordination as requested, specifically relating to review/implementation of National Technical Standards and Guidelines and/or International Mine Action Standards and other relevant international standards as well as treaty implementation/obligations

• Provide input to the CMAP during the development of resource mobilization documents such as concept notes, proposals and other communications materials for key stakeholders, particularly related to operational aspects.

• Coordinate with the Senior EORE adviser to ensure regular meetings of the Protection Cluster’s Mine Action sub-Working Group in Gaza, ensuring coordination of reporting of mine action activities and linking local mine actors with the Global Mine Action Area of Responsibility (MA AoR).

4.    Knowledge management and innovation

• Ensure records of operations-related files are well maintained.

• Liaise with the Information Management Associate and Programme Officer to ensure that IMSMA, the IM dashboard are up to date and accurate.

• Implement relevant tools and templates to effectively manage efficient and effective operations

• Keep abreast of and incorporate latest/best practices, approaches and technology to enhance operational results

• Initiate and undertake lessons learned exercises, including the sharing, effective filing, and incorporation into future operational plans and ensure information sharing 

5.    People management

• Manage the Gaza Operations Support team (EOD operators, medics, operations assistants, data associate and drivers).  Tasks include day-to-day task management, monitoring attendance and leave plans, and timely completion of Performance Evaluation Reports (PERs). 

• Support in recruitment, train, guide, empower and develop the operations team, with consideration for individual training and development needs 

• Manage operations personnel in planning, execution and delivery of allocated projects, ensuring incorporation of best operational processes.

• Promote teamwork, collaboration and diversity by providing the Operations team with clear direction, objectives and guidance to enable them to perform their duties responsibly, effectively and efficiently.

• Manage national and international UNOPS personnel in a multicultural team, ensuring a professional, ethical and well-managed operations team.

• Foster a positive and enabling work environment, respectful of both men and women, and ensure that the highest standards of conduct are observed.

• Ensure that regular performance reviews are conducted, and any issues are immediately addressed.

Impact of Results
The effective and successful performance by the Head of Operations directly impacts the achievement of UNOPS project deliverables and UNMAS programme results and consequently reinforces the visibility and image of  UNMAS Palestine Programme as it delivers on its mandated strategic objectives.  

• EOD Level 3+ certification is required. EOD qualifications should be from international military organizations that train and educate EOD specialists in accordance with NATO standards. In case of non-military awarded qualifications, the individual is responsible for providing proof of competence and curriculum of courses attended.
• Security Certified Program (SCP) Certification is desired