SOC Operator, UNDSS

Background

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP:  we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a ‘leave no one behind’ approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.

UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

The United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) provides professional safety and security services to enable the activities of the United Nations System. The advertised position is physically located in the Security Operations Centre (SOC) in the UN Plaza Almaty, Kazakhstan. The role follows an established 12-hour shift (day/night) to cover a 24-hour operation. The primary function of the SOC is to provide specialized and comprehensive support to the UNSMS. This includes monitoring the security situation across Kazakhstan, analysing data, and disseminating information, advice, and/or instructions in a timely manner to the appropriate audience. Additional functions include information management (e.g., staff and incident databases), communications management (including training), and mission tracking. Crucially, the SOC is a “first responder” for callers in need of assistance, exercising judgement to provide real-time information and advice, or coordinating other resources (including local emergency services), as appropriate.

Duties and Responsibilities

The SOC is established on a need identified through the Security Risk Management (SRM) process for Kazakhstan. The SOC Operator acts in accordance with detailed duties, which are defined in the scope of work as well as in Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), Post Orders, and other relevant security procedures. The SOC Operator will maintain communication with all UN Agencies, Funds, Programs, and Offices, as well as with other local entities and UN SOCs in neighbouring countries on regular basis. The SOC Operator shall maintain the 24-hour operation of the SOC in two 12-hour shifts with one operator per shift. 

The SOC Operator reports directly to the SOC Supervisor, under overall guidance of the Field Security Associates (FSAs), and the overall responsibility of the UN Security Advisor for Kazakhstan. The SOC Operator uses the Security Communications System (SCS) to support UNSMS operations.
 

Operational  duties:
-   Monitors reliable media and other local sources for the UN related security or safety related news and events.
-   Populates and manages a database of relevant security and safety related incidents.
-   Manages and operates different specialised technologies available in the SOC (e.g., automated vehicle tracking; customised security applications like UNDSS electronic Travel Advisory (eTA), or Security Communications and Analysis Network (SCAAN); mass message broadcasting systems; radios; system of deviation of UN building; earthquake warning system; closed-circuit television (CCTV).
-   Guides others on the appropriate use of the Security Communications System (SCS), e.g., radio checks. 
-   Maintains relations with host government emergency and security services (e.g., police, fire, ambulance), to verify information, receive updates, and/or enable response.
-   Drafts security and safety related messages and reports in consultation with the Security Operations Centre (SOC) Supervisor, and disseminates such messages to target audiences using the most appropriate means.
-   Monitors the movement of field missions as per standard operating procedures (SOPs) and the UNDSS TRIP (Travel Request Information Process) system.
-   Receives calls for assistance from UN personnel, and facilitates or escalates a response as appropriate, while maintaining communication with the caller.
-   Notifies the respective UNSMS or UN partner organization security focal point when their personnel are involved in a security or safety incident.
-   Conducts UNSMS personnel headcount in accordance with SOPs, on a regular basis as well as in emergency situations as required, as directed by the SOC Supervisor or UNDSS management.
-   Provides support with UN Identification Card System for all UN personnel in the country.

Administrative duties:
-   Maintains a database of contact information and other essential details of all UNSMS personnel and their eligible dependents.
-   Maintains a distribution list for advisories and other products.
-   Maintains a database of UN premises and official vehicles.
-   Maintains a list of country UN security actors.
-   Maintains contact details of host government emergency services and other support structures, including private security companies.
-   Maintains log of communications and actions taken in the course of duties.
 

Core competencies

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 

Technical skills - Equipment operation and control 

- Literate in information technology and systems.
- Understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the Office.
- Actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks.
- Shows willingness to learn new technology.
 

Customer Satisfaction/Client Management - Cooperating with others

- Ability to respond timely and appropriately with a sense of urgence, provide consistent solutions, and deliver timely and quality results and/or solutions to fulfil and understand the real customers' needs. 
- Provide inputs to the development of customer service strategy. 
- Look for ways to add value beyond clients' immediate requests. 
- Ability to anticipate client's upcoming needs and concerns.
 

Communication skills      

- Ability to communicate in a clear, concise and unambiguous manner both through written and verbal communication; to tailor messages and choose communication methods depending on the audience.
- Ability to manage communications internally and externally, through media, social media and other appropriate channels

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

• Secondary education / high school diploma.

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years (with high school diploma) or up to 1 year (with Bachelor’s degree) of relevant work experience in security or safety, emergency services, or working with communication technologies. 
• Strong communications skills and literacy in information technology and systems (e.g., Windows, Microsoft Office), are essential.
• Experience within the UN system or another international organization would be desirable. 
• Knowledge or previous experience with radios (HF/VHF); video/building surveillance systems; or communication technologies would be desirable.

Language:

• Fluency in English plus fluency in Russian and/or Kazakh.

Disclaimer

Important information for US Permanent Residents ('Green Card' holders) 

Under US immigration law, acceptance of a staff position with UNDP, an international organization, may have significant implications for US Permanent Residents. UNDP advises applicants for all professional level posts that they must relinquish their US Permanent Resident status and accept a G-4 visa, or have submitted a valid application for US citizenship prior to commencement of employment. 

UNDP is not in a position to provide advice or assistance on applying for US citizenship and therefore applicants are advised to seek the advice of competent immigration lawyers regarding any applications.

 Applicant information about UNDP rosters

Note: 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.

Non-discrimination

UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.  

UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status. 

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