Field Security Associate (Open to all applicants)

Tiered Approach

In line with the commitment to safeguard capacity and support personnel already in the Organization, a majority of UNDP UNCDF/UNV vacancies are advertised using a tiered application process whereby:

• Tier 0: UNDP/UNCDF/UNV IP staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments, whose posts will be abolished, or contracts will be terminated or not renewed during 2026.
• Tier 1: Other UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments
• Tier 2: UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding temporary appointments (TA), personnel on regular PSA contracts, and Expert and Specialist UN Volunteers
• Tier 3 or no tier indicated: All other contract types from UNDP/UNCDF/UNV and other agencies, and other external candidates

Please make note of the Tier(s) indicated in the vacancy title, if any, and ensure that you satisfy the eligibility to apply.

II. Background and Organizational Context
The Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) is responsible for providing leadership, operational support and oversight of the United Nations security management system (UNSMS) globally. As a global leader in security risk management principles, UNDSS enables the safe and effective delivery of United Nations programmes and activities in the most complex and challenging environments, while maximizing precious resources. To this end, the work of the Department is aligned under a clear mission, to enable United Nations system programme activities through trusted security leadership and solutions.

This is a unique opportunity to join a diverse, dynamic and exciting organization gaining unique and valuable experience where security provides great value. Besides the opportunity to gain new skills and further advance security expertise, this position offers a fulfilling environment that gives you satisfaction by contributing directly or indirectly to peace and security, human rights, and achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. Simply, all humanity will be benefiting from your work. Together, we can make the world a better place.
For more information on the Department, and how we make an impact on the world in enabling the achievement of SDGs, visit: https://www.un.org/undss.

This position is located in Department of Safety and Security in the Cameroon office, Maroua. Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Security Adviser, the Field Security Associate reports to the Field Security Coordination Officer (FSCO) and assists in the implementation of security operations and all matters related to the management of the safety and security for UN personnel in the Area of Responsibility (AoR).

III. Position Purpose
The United Nations Organization in Cameroon seeks to recruit a Field Security Associate (FSA) for the area of Maroua Under the immediate supervision of the UN Security Adviser for Cameroon, the FSA under the supervision of the FSCO, supports the Area Security Coordinator to ensure that all matters pertaining to the safety and security of personnel, premises and assets are implemented. These include preparing risk assessments, ensuring minimum standards of safety and security are maintained, security plans are updated, and security information is shared with staff in a timely manner.

IV. Key Duties and Accountabilities

1. Assists in maintaining the Security Plan, including updating staff lists:
• Helps in the preparation and review of the UN Security Plan;
• Supports actions during the implementation of the Security Plan, as required.
• Assists with the monitoring of the security measures implementation as recommended in the Security Risks Management (SRM) process for the AoR
2. Assists in reporting security incidents affecting UN staff, offices and assets;

• Assists in reporting security incidents affecting UN staff, offices and assets, and assists in the preparation of security reports, such as the Security Incident Report, the Security Assessments and the Quarterly Incident Report
3.) Organizes and delivers training courses on security awareness and preparedness, and facilitates knowledge management and capacity building.
• 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.
• Contribute to knowledge networks and professional communities.
4.) Performs other security-related tasks:
• Provides support in conducting security evaluations and provides advice on Residential Security Measures of UN staff, as well as on latest trends and threats to staff safety and security;
• Establishes and maintains warden system and keeps update of information related to UN offices and residences;
• Administers a pass and ID system;
• Maintains liaison with commercial companies used for UN security at offices and residences in order to facilitate the effective and efficient use of the guard force.

5.) Provides general administrative assistance to the FSCO:
• Maintains routine and confidential correspondence files/documents;
• Maintains a database on contact details in relation to host country security authorities;
• Arranges appointments, receives visitors, places and screens telephone calls and answers queries with discretion, and takes minutes and/or notes at meetings.

The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.
Supervisory/Managerial Responsibilities: None

V. Requirements:
Education
• Secondary Education is required.
• University degree (bachelor’s degree) in Political Science, Security Management, Management or a relevant field will be given due consideration, but it is not a requirement.
• Applicable security, police and/or military training is desirable.
• Valid drivers’ license is required.

Experience, Knowledge, and Skills

• Minimum 6 years (with secondary education) or 3 years (with bachelor’s degree) of experience in the area of safety or security, law enforcement, or related areas such as security information acquisition is required.
• Prior experience working with the UN system, international NGO, or within an international humanitarian or development setting is desired.
• Experience using computer applications (MS Office, Excel, and power point, and internet) is required.
• Experience with Cameroonian Security Environment: with the specific security dynamics, risks, and challenges present in Cameroon.
• Experience with the local context, including political, social, and cultural factors, including effective security management is desired.
• Experience using HF and VHF Radio Operation: Proficiency in operating HF and VHF radio communication systems commonly used in Cameroon is desired.
• Experience in Diplomatic Security and Protection or Previous experience or familiarity with diplomatic security protocols and procedures is desired.

Language Requirements
Fluency in French and working knowledge of English OR Fluency in English and working knowledge of French
Expected Demonstration of Competencies

Core:
Achieve Results - LEVEL 1: Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline
Think Innovatively - LEVEL 1: Open to creative ideas/known risks, is pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements
Learn Continuously - LEVEL 1: Open minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback
Adapt with Agility - LEVEL 1: Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible
Act with Determination -LEVEL 1: Shows drive and motivation, able to deliver calmly in face of adversity, confident
Engage and Partner - LEVEL 1: Demonstrates compassion/understanding towards others, forms positive relationships
Enable Diversity and Inclusion - LEVEL 1: Appreciate/respect differences, aware of unconscious bias, confront discrimination

Cross-Functional & Technical competencies
Thematic Area Name Definition
Ethics - UN policy knowledge - ethics: Ethics UN policy knowledge - ethics Knowledge and understanding of the UN Staff Regulations and Rules and other policies relating to ethics and integrity
Communications - Creative direction and copywriting: Ability to creatively communicate concepts in an engaging and simple way
Security Services - Security advice, planning and coordination: Ability to provide with authoritative advice and guidance on security management, plan and coordinate security activities
Security Services - Security information management: Analytical capabilities to process diverse security information and develop recommendations
Security Services - Security incident management & monitoring: Ability to provide adequate response to security incidents/events
Security Services - Security policy awareness & implementation: Knowledge of security policy concepts and ability to apply to strategic and/or practical situations
Business Management - Partnerships Management: Build and maintain partnerships with wide networks of stakeholders, Governments, civil society and private sector partners, experts and others in line with UNDP strategy and policies.

VI. Keywords
Communication
Client Orientation
Conflict Management
Ethics and Integrity

Equal opportunity

As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination.

UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.

Right to select multiple candidates

UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Scam alert

UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information, please see www.undp.org/scam-alert.