Background

Under the guidance of the UNDSS Security Advisor and the direct supervision of the UNDSS Field Security Associate, the Radio Operator must manage the radio room as the nerve center of the UN operations, be familiar with the UN Security SOPs, directives, communication procedures and enable staff compliance with MOSS, ensure the radio room is functional as a reliable security information and emergency communication centre. Also maintain an upto date database with current monthly staff and Warden lists to enable proper staff accountability and headcounts especially for use during emergencies. Liaise with Host Country Security Organs, liaise with UN AFPs SFPs and provide effective and reliable communication to the DO/SMT, SA and Wardens. The Radio Operator must demonstrate client-oriented skills displaying high sense of responsibility, courtesy, tact and the ability to work with people of different nationality and cultural backgrounds.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Maintain the Radio Room function as Security Information and Emergency Coordination Center for the UN in country;
  • Maintain 24/7 radio and telephone communications with all UN Organizations in the country;
  • Broadcast all urgent security advisories over the VHF network as well as bulk sms system;
  • Operate VHF & HF radios, sat-phones and maintain daily radio and operations log book;
  • Prepare monthly duty roster for Radio Operators;
  • Conduct radio checks following a monthly roster for the respective UN Agencies;
  • Act as a relay quickly in the event of an emergency and contact relevant authorities to assist during critical incidents;
  • Coordinate and follow up with Host Country QRF units during incidents affecting UN staff and or operations;
  • Maintain up-to-date phone numbers for all emergency organizations including Police and Medical facilities;
  • Monitor, gather and compile events with security implications in country and advice the FSA and SA promptly
  • Monitor, track and record all UN Missions in the country including support to visiting VIP movements
  • Periodically check and maintain an updated list of important Host Country contacts, UN Agencies, SMT, OMT and Warden lists;
  • Maintain a detailed incident log book for the daily security reports;
  • Report all faults relating to the efficient functioning of the Radio room;
  • Keep a register of office phone utilization;
  • Organizing and conducting Radio training for new UN staff on communication procedures, use of VHF and HF;
  • Issue VHF Radio Call Signs to new UN Staff Members according to Departments/ Units and Function;
  • Issue HF Sel Call Signs to the different UN Base Stations and Vehicles;
  • Test the Emergency Communication System periodically with the DO/SMT, SA, ASCs and Wardens;
  • Maintain an electronic filing system for easy access and maintain a database;
  • Monitor media, review print and online sites daily for information gathering intended for daily Sitrep;
  • Maintain Staff Database including detailed personal information records on all UN staff members and their dependents;
  • Perform any other tasks as may be assigned by FSA and SA as required.

Competencies

Core Competencies:

  • Demonstrates commitment to UN values;
  • Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
  • Demonstrates initiative and willingness to keep abreast of new developments in the security and operations field and computer skills;
  • Good communications skills in English and French, both oral and written.
  • Good interpersonal skills.

Fumctional Competencies:

  • Demonstrates excellent knowledge of security rules and regulations and skills in finding solutions to security problems;
  • Ability to work under pressure and in emergencies or when rapid response is required;
  • Work effectively in Day and Night shifts including Weekends on a 24/7 basis;
  • Responds positively to critical feedback and differing views;
  • Planning and Organizing: Demonstrate ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor own work plan;

Creativity:

  • Ability to actively seek to improve services;
  • Offer new and different options to solve problems/meet client needs;
  • Promote and persuade others to consider new ideas.

Teamwork:

  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers and clients in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity, including gender.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

  • High School diploma or equivalent;
  • Supplemental security training desirable.

Experience:

  • At least 4  years in Radio Communication;
  • Very good knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

Language:

  • Fluency in both written and oral English and French.