Security Operations Officer
Organizational Context
The UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) globally leads and supports the UN Security Management System, enabling safe and effective UN program delivery in challenging environments. This role is based in Gaza within the UNDSS Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territory (IOPT) Office, a designated hardship and non-family duty station. The Security Operations Officer reports to the Principal Security Adviser.
Job Purpose
The Security Operations Officer contributes to the UN's security and operational responses by forecasting the evolving security environment and supporting the development of risk management strategies. This role involves analyzing threats, preparing security plans, and managing security-related projects to ensure the safety and effectiveness of UN operations. The officer will enhance communication and trust with stakeholders, strengthen security awareness through training, and provide advice on local security conditions. Responsibilities include conducting security surveys, supporting contingency planning, maintaining communication systems, and leading incident reviews. The role also emphasizes mainstreaming gender, diversity, and inclusion in security approaches.
Responsibilities
Forecasting the security environment and UN responses, utilizing analytical techniques and research to enhance security programs. Developing risk management strategies and planning based on situational awareness, critical thinking, and threat analysis. Preparing, reviewing, and implementing security plans, risk management documents, and security solutions, including written analysis and incident reporting. Managing security-related projects, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring alignment with organizational policies. Monitoring and evaluating preparedness and compliance activities to improve operational efficiency. Enhancing communication and trust with stakeholders through collaboration and information sharing. Strengthening personnel awareness and capacity through security training and advice. Assessing local security conditions and advising UN staff on potential threats. Conducting security surveys and recommending effective security measures. Supporting organizational resilience, contingency planning, crisis decision-making, and evacuation plans. Evaluating evacuation routes and resources. Supporting the establishment and maintenance of security communication systems. Leading after-action reviews for security incidents and accidents. Implementing gender, diversity, and inclusion approaches in security management.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in security, risk management, or emergency preparedness is required. This includes one year of experience in drafting security plans (relocation, evacuation, incident response) in a conflict environment. Experience in operational coordination and security support to UN entities or NGOs in conflict zones is also required, along with experience using analytical and information management tools. Two years of experience within the UN Common System or a comparable international organization in a conflict/post-conflict environment is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, analytical skills, critical thinking, decision-making, communication (verbal and written), client orientation, risk management, security planning, project management, collaboration, gender mainstreaming, diversity and inclusion awareness.