Operations Specialist

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Global Portfolios Office (GPO) supports sustainable development, climate action, and peacebuilding globally. The New York Portfolios Office (NYPO) specifically manages UNOPS' New York-based portfolios, delivering project management, procurement, HR, and financial services to partners like the UN Secretariat. It fosters collaboration and leverages expertise in global portfolio design and implementation, supporting the SDGs across over 130 countries.

Job Purpose

This role supports the Coordination and Compliance Officer (CCO) and Head of Operations (HOO) by providing operational and technical expertise for mine action programmes. The Operations Specialist is responsible for the design, planning, implementation, and monitoring of mine action operations, ensuring compliance with UNOPS and international standards. This includes analyzing explosive ordnance threats, developing mitigation measures, overseeing third-party contracts, and ensuring adherence to quality, safety, and inclusion policies. The role contributes to the safe and effective delivery of UNMAS field programmes, aiming to eliminate the threat of landmines and explosive remnants of war.

Responsibilities

The Operations Specialist is responsible for supporting programme and project design from an operational and technical perspective, including developing workplans and concepts of operations that encompass mine action pillars. This involves ensuring plans incorporate gender equality and social inclusion considerations and have viable timelines and resources. The role ensures operations adhere to UNOPS policies (financial, procurement, contract management, safety, DEI, PSEAH) and mine action technical standards (IMAS, IATG). Key duties include overseeing and monitoring mine action operations, analyzing explosive ordnance threats, developing mitigation strategies, and verifying third-party contract compliance, including GESI and PSEAH obligations. The Specialist also implements quality and information management systems, advises on operational risks, participates in Boards of Inquiry, and manages stakeholder relationships. Additionally, the role involves mentoring operations personnel, fostering teamwork, and promoting a safe and inclusive work environment.

Work Experience

Requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in project management within military, humanitarian, conflict, or development contexts. A minimum of 3 years of proven experience in explosive hazard management (e.g., EOD, surveys, clearance, IEDD) within the last 10 years is mandatory. Experience applying IMAS or IATG standards and using IMSMA is required. EOD Level 3 certification is also mandatory.

Skills

Operational Planning, Operational Risk Management, Operations Management, Quality Management, Explosive Hazard Management, Project Management, Contract Management, Stakeholder Management, People Management, Knowledge Management.

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