Security Senior Officer (Operations)

About the role

The Security Senior Officer leads security for OPCW operations, protecting personnel and assets through expert risk management and proactive planning within the UN Security Management System. The incumbent advises on all security and safety matters affecting OPCW operations and projects and coordinates with the OPCW Office of Security and Confidentiality (OCS), the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), government authorities and other partners.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct and regularly update Security Risk Assessments for operations, offices, project sites and travel routes in Syria, and develop local security SOPs aligned with UNSMS standards.
• Provide technical security advice on programme design and project implementation, and include safety and security components in project proposals and budgets.
• Coordinate operational security for personnel movements, field missions and high-risk deployments, liaising with UNDSS, host governments and humanitarian actors, and advise on safe access strategies and convoy coordination.
• Ensure OPCW compounds and offices meet safety and security standards, and manage and account for security equipment.
• Prepare security situation reports, serve as a focal point for incident reporting, and ensure timely submission of Security Incident Reports.
• Support evacuation and crisis response coordination, and lead security briefings, inductions and refresher training for personnel, consultants and visitors.
• Mentor security personnel, review and test the business continuity plan, and maintain country files and security documentation.
• Take part in Security Management Team and Security Cell meetings, and contribute to training, knowledge sharing and research on security topics.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree (any discipline) with 4 years of relevant experience, or Master's degree with 2 years of relevant experience.
• Relevant experience in security management, law enforcement, military or related areas.
• Experience in security risk assessment, crisis management and coordination with UNDSS or UN field security structures.
• Experience in multicultural environments or UN system organizations in a developing country, and in development or humanitarian contexts, is desired.

Required skills

• Use of collaboration and productivity tools (e.g. MS Office, G-Suite) and web-based management systems.
• Preferred: professional security certification (e.g. UNDSS SSAFE, HEAT, CPP) and ETB and/or IFAK certification.