Operations Specialist - Ammunition and Weapon Management

Organizational Context

UNOPS operates globally, supporting partners in delivering peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects. The Peace and Security Cluster (PSC) focuses on mine action and explosive hazards. Within the Central African Republic (CAR), UNMAS implements a comprehensive program to reduce threats from explosive ordnance and the proliferation of weapons and ammunition, contributing to civilian protection and national security.

Job Purpose

The Operations Specialist - Weapons and Ammunition Management serves as the primary technical focal point for all program activities related to weapons and ammunition management (WAM) in the Central African Republic. This role provides expert guidance to national defense and internal security forces, focusing on strengthening capacities for safe storage, accountability, control, and management of weapons and ammunition. The Specialist will advise on stockpile safety, security, verification, destruction, and compliance with international standards. A key aspect is supporting the development and institutionalization of sustainable WAM structures, including regulatory frameworks, standard operating procedures, training, and infrastructure improvements. The ultimate goal is to reduce the risk of diversion, accidental explosions, and illicit proliferation, thereby enhancing national ownership and long-term stability within the security sector, while integrating gender equality and social inclusion principles.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include planning and delivering all Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM) training, ensuring it incorporates gender and social inclusion principles. The role involves managing and coordinating training sessions, conducting Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) inspections for WAM activities and storage in compliance with International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG), and verifying compliance with Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH) standards. The Specialist will consolidate training data, lead risk management assessments for storage areas, and provide technical advice on facility rehabilitation. They will contribute to developing GESI-responsive proposals and national regulatory frameworks, review WAM work plans, and maintain close coordination with stakeholders and national forces. Regular updates on achievements, challenges, and risks are required, along with immediate notification of any compliance or safety issues. Participation in Boards of Inquiry and preparing activity reports are also part of the role.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in areas such as International Relations, Peace and Conflict, Security Studies, Ammunition and Weapons Management, or Project Management is required. This includes at least 5 years of practical ammunition management experience, encompassing inspection and risk assessment aligned with IATG, with a minimum of 2 years in an advisory capacity. Experience in report writing is also essential. Desirable experience includes integrating gender and social inclusion (GESI) perspectives or PSEAH/safeguarding standards into technical training or capacity building with national security sector institutions.

Skills

Field Training, Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM), Risk Management, Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC), Gender and Social Inclusion (GESI), Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (PSEAH).

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