Local Security Assistant, (GS-4), TA, San Cristobal – Venezuela, LACR.

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does -in programs, in advocacy and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favoritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life -in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions- her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens -addressing inequity- not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfil their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries. This is why the focus on equity is so vital. It accelerates progress towards realizing the human rights of all children, which is the universal mandate of UNICEF, as outlined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while also supporting the equitable development of nations.

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. To save their lives. To defend their rights. To help them fulfill their potential.

Across 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, every day, to build a better world for everyone.

And we never give up.

For every child, a hero.

 

How can you make a difference?

The Local Security Assistant (LSA) reports to the Chief Field Office (CFO) and the Security Specialist (SS) for supervision. The LSA provides operational and administrative assistance to the Supervisor in assists of their role as it relates to ensuring the safety and security of personnel and their eligible family members as well as the safeguarding of UNICEF premises, assets and resources at the field office. In carrying out the below duties, the incumbent is expected to follow instructions precisely and in strict compliance with supervisor’s instructions and UN Security related policies, rules and procedures.

Summary of key functions/accountabilities:

1. Assists the SS in collecting, updating and communicating information regarding the security situation in the country:

• Liaises and coordinates, as appropriate, with the host government security organizations and/or personnel, including local, provincial authorities, military, and police officers, as well as non-governmental organizations and other non-State actors in the area of operation;
• Helps to assess the security situation at the duty station and ensures adequate gathering and verification of security information that may be required for a proper analysis of the situation by the SS;
• Communicates information on security to the head of Field Offices and provides host country security advice to UNICEF as required;
• Maintains regular contacts with Security Focal Points of UN agencies;
• May be requested to provide technical assistance at ASMT meetings.

2. Assists the Chief Field Office (CFO) and Area Security Management Team in maintaining the Security Plan, including updating staff lists:

• Assists the CFO administratively and logistically in their planning functions related to the safety and security of UNICEF personnel and eligible family members as well as the safeguarding of premises, assets, and resources in accordance with UN and UNICEF Security Management Systems.
• Helps in the preparation and review of the Security Management Process;
• Supports actions during the implementation of the Security Plan, as required.
• Assist the CFO in the development of UNICEF routine security documentation including security contingency plans such as, but not limited to, fire and evacuation plans.
• Assists the CFO in the establishment of effective and functioning Communications/Warden Systems for UNICEF and the periodic testing of these systems

3. Assists the SS in monitoring compliance with the SRMMs, established for the field office:

• Monitor the local security situation through local media and networks providing regular information and updates to the supervisor relative to on-going and emerging security issues in the country

4. Assists in reporting security incidents affecting UNICEF staff, offices and assets, and assists the SS in the preparation of security reports.

5. Provides support in organizing and conducting training courses on security awareness and preparedness and providing security orientation to newly assigned staff members. Conducts security briefings, as required:

• Under the direct guidance of the CFO, share information with UNICEF personnel and eligible family members that would affect their safety and security and information regarding the actions to take in the event of an emergency, including those identified in the UNICEF/UN Security Plans. 
• With strong support and guidance from the supervisor, develop and conduct area level training sessions for drivers to familiarize them with the specific actions to take when encountering a security-related situation while driving.

6. Provides general administrative assistance to the SS:

• Maintains routine and confidential correspondence files/documents;
• Maintains a database on contact details about host country local security authorities;
• Arranges appointments, receives visitors, places and screens telephone calls and answers queries with discretion, and takes minutes and/or notes at meetings.
• Maintains liaison with commercial companies used for UN security at offices and residences, to ensure the effective and efficient use of the guard force, in compliance with established contracts.
• Conducts security evaluations and provides advice on security measures for the residences (Residential Security Measures – RSMs) of UNICEF staff, as well as on the latest trends and threats to staff safety and security;

 

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have…

• Completion of secondary education, supplemented by relevant technical/military/police courses and/or university courses in a relevant discipline.
• A minimum of 4 years of progressively responsible experience in a security related environment is required.
• Developing country work experience and/or familiarity with emergency is considered an asset.
• Fluency in Spanish is essential, working knowledge of English is an asset

For every Child, you demonstrate…

UNICEF’s core values of Commitment, Diversity and Integrity and core competencies in Communication, Working with People and Drive for Results.

The competencies required for this post are: 

• Applying technical expertise 
• Adapting and Responding to Change 
• Coping with pressure and setbacks 
• Relating and Networking 
• Following Instructions and Procedures
• Planning and Organizing 

View our competency framework at

http://www.unicef.org/about/employ/files/UNICEF_Competencies.pdf

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization.

UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. UNICEF also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.

Remarks:

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.