Consultant – Security/Operations Assistant

The Carter Center is guided by a fundamental commitment to human rights and the alleviation of human suffering; it seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy, and improve health.

With over three decades of working in Sudan and a broad network of relationships across its 18 states, the Carter Center is monitoring the country’s ongoing conflict and transition processes in support of long-term peace prospects. The Center is deploying a remote international observation mission to monitor developments in Sudan and preparations for a post-conflict political transition. The mission will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, with a potential relocation to Sudan pending political and security developments.

The Carter Center is seeking a highly qualified candidate to serve as a Security/Operations Assistant on its international observer mission. This role may require travel in the region on an as-needed basis. Hiring for the position is expected in November 2024 for an initial three-month period with the possibility of extension through August 2025. Applicants must confirm their availability for the project’s full duration.

The Security Assistant will report directly to the Security and Operations Manager working in collaboration with other designated staff of the field office. The Security Assistant within limits of delegated authority, is responsible for the following:

Duties

Assist the Security and Operations Manager in collecting, updating and communicating information regarding the security situation in Sudan and Nairobi, Kenya. Develop a database of such information.

1. Update and keep a security map of Sudan. No need for Nairobi
2. Monitor the Carter Center, UN and other INGO security reports and advisories.
3. Liaise and coordinate, as appropriate, with the host government security organizations and/or personnel, including national and local diplomatic police officers, as well as non-governmental organizations in the area of operations.
4. Help to assess the security situation at the duty station
5. Ensure adequate gathering and verification of security information for a proper situational analysis.
6. Communicate information on security issues to the Security and Operations Manager and provide host country security advice to TCC staff, as required.
7. Assist in maintaining the security plan, including updating staff lists.
8. Assist with security assessments in Sudan, Kenya and the region to support mission operations and deployments as requested.
9. Help in the preparation and review of the Security Plan.
10. Support implementation of the security plan, as required.
11. Assist with the monitoring of the implementation of security measures as recommended.
12. Assist in reporting security incidents affecting TCC staff, offices and assets, and assist in the preparation of security reports.
13. Provide support in organising and conducting training courses on security awareness and preparedness and providing security orientation to newly assigned staff members.
14. Conduct security briefings, as required.
15. Provide support in conducting security evaluations and advice on latest trends and threats to staff safety and security.
16. Establish and maintain staff tracking system in the event of in-/out country travel, using the Healix App as applicable.
17. Maintain liaison with commercial companies used for security at offices and residences to facilitate the effective and efficient use of their service as applicable.
18. Provide general administrative assistance.
19. Maintain routine and confidential correspondence files/documents.
20. Maintain a database of contact details of host country / Sudan’s contacts relevant to the position.
21. Arrange appointments, receive visitors, place and screen telephone calls with discretion, and take minutes and/or notes at meetings as required.
22. Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

Professionalism: Knowledge in the field of security risk management. Shows pride in work and in achievements. Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter. Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results. Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns.

Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of work.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Planning and Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed objectives. Identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required. Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work. Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning. Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary. Uses time efficiently.

Education:

A Bachelors Degree at minimum.

Security training.

Job Specific Qualifications

A good understanding of security risk management, analysis, security assessments, data management, and security training.

Effective communication skills, excellent interpersonal skills.

Implement a security plan in support of the security manager.

Good skills in the use of Microsoft applications i.e. Word, Excel Access and Power Point are required.

Effective liaison and information management.

Work Experience

Minimum of five (5) years of work experience in security risk or disaster management.

Demonstrated experience in high-risk environments with security responsibilities in the public or private service areas, or in a corporate environment.

Familiarity with Sudan and professional experience working in Sudan.

Prior experience with the UN system or an international NGO is desirable.

Experience in the use of radio communications systems is desirable.

Data management, analysis and drafting of security documents.