Senior Driver
Organizational Context
The UNESCO Office in Santiago seeks a Senior Driver to provide reliable and safe driving services. This role operates under the overall authority of the Director of Office & UNESCO Representative and the direct supervision of the Senior Operations Officer. The position requires the highest standards of discretion, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility, coupled with excellent knowledge of protocol and security matters.
Job Purpose
The Senior Driver is responsible for providing secure and efficient transportation for the Director of the Office, UNESCO staff, officials, visitors, and authorized personnel. This includes ensuring the vehicle is maintained in optimal condition, managing daily logs, arranging for timely repairs and maintenance, and ensuring cost-effectiveness in vehicle usage. The role also involves meeting and assisting official personnel and visitors at the airport, facilitating basic customs and visa formalities when necessary, and undertaking field trips. The Senior Driver must maintain all required vehicle documents and supplies, report accidents accurately, and assist with communication equipment. Additionally, the position may involve basic clerical duties to support office operations.
Responsibilities
The Senior Driver will ensure the safe and reliable transportation of the Director, staff, officials, and visitors using the office vehicle. This includes meeting personnel and visitors at the airport and assisting with basic visa and customs procedures. The role requires diligent management of the assigned vehicle to ensure cost savings, including accurate daily logs, timely minor repairs, arranging major repairs, and regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire checks, and washing. The incumbent will also provide input for vehicle maintenance plans and reports, and oversee vehicle inspections and repairs. Essential duties include ensuring the vehicle is equipped with all necessary documents, insurance, registration, and supplies like a first aid kit and spare parts. Accurate and timely reporting of any accidents is crucial. The Senior Driver will also assist with communication systems and handle the delivery and collection of mail, documents, and personnel-related items, adhering to Ministry of Foreign Affairs requirements. Basic clerical tasks such as photocopying, binding, filing, and bill payments may also be required.
Work Experience
A minimum of 2 years of professional experience as a driver is required. Experience working within the UN system, an international organization, or a diplomatic mission is desirable, as is experience with customs procedures and protocol.
Skills
Proficiency in vehicle maintenance and basic automotive mechanics. Excellent knowledge of Chilean traffic laws and regulations. Strong efficiency, tact, discretion, and keen observation skills. Availability and flexibility to meet service needs. Ability to interact effectively with diverse individuals. Acute awareness of safety and security matters. Capacity for emergency response and protocol compliance. Knowledge of defensive driving is desirable. Excellent Spanish and basic English language skills are required.