National Security Specialist

Provide security support to safeguard FAO PNG personnel, assets, and operations.

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FAO - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

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Application deadline 6 months ago: Monday 2 Mar 2026 at 22:59 UTC

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Overview

Provide security support to safeguard FAO PNG personnel, assets, and operations.

You have:

  • University degree in security studies, political science, international relations, or related field.
  • At least 3 years of progressive experience in security management, preferably within the UN system or international organizations.
  • Working knowledge level C of English and of Tok Pisin.
  • National of Papua New Guinea

Organizational Setting

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a dynamic and revitalized organization, recognized as the leading UN agency in the global fight to eradicate hunger, reduce rural poverty, and promote sustainable agricultural, fisheries, and livestock development. Additionally, FAO champions the sustainable management of natural resources and the environment to benefit vulnerable communities and rural populations.

The safety and security of the organization’s personnels, assets, and operations is one of FAOs paramount corporate goals while delivering impactful work at the country, regional, and international levels. FAO Headquarters and Regional Offices have dedicated staff for this purpose, however, there is a growing need for specialized security expertise at the country level to strengthen risk management, emergency preparedness, and compliance with UN Security Management System standard. This role is critical to safeguarding FAO’s operations and enabling the organization to function effectively in complex environments.

Technical Focus

Provide security support to safeguard FAO PNG personnel, assets, and operations by integrating UNSMS standards into programme planning, strengthening risk management, and ensuring effective emergency preparedness and inter agency coordination across operating environments.

Reporting Lines

Under the overall supervision of the FAO Representative/Head of Office for Papua New Guinea, and in coordination with the National Operations Officer, UNDSS, and FAO RAP Regional Security Advisor, the incumbent will provide strategic and operational security support to ensure the safety of FAO personnel, assets, and operations across Papua New Guinea. The role integrates UN Security Management System (UNSMS) standards with FAO’s operational needs and HR policies.

Tasks and responsibilities

• The incumbent shall familiarize themselves with FAO and UN Security policy and operational guidelines to ensure mandatory coherence of all security and information outputs. • Update and provide inputs on all safety and security matters for project planning and implementation, to ensure security is embedded in all field operations. • Conduct security risk assessments for FAO offices, field sites, and missions using UNSMS methodology. • Integrate security risk management into programme design and budgeting. • Liaise with UNDSS and local security agencies to monitor threats and coordinate response. • Update, as necessary, FAO PNG’s Security Plan and Fire Safety protocols. • Coordinate incident response and ensure timely reporting of security events. • Monitor compliance with FAO security protocols and UNDSS advisories and mandatory training. • Deliver security briefings and training to FAO staff and NSHR. • Ensure all personnel are registered in warden systems and emergency protocols. • Develop tailored security awareness modules for national staff and field personnel. • With close consultation and guidance from the HOO, assist FAO in the UN Security Cell and inter-agency coordination platforms. • Participate in networks with government security bodies, NGOs, and diplomatic missions. • In close consultation with the HOO, provide analysis and recommendations on security matters to FAO PNG personnel based on evolving security trends. • Maintain accurate records of security assessments, plans, and incidents. • Contribute to regional security knowledge platforms and FAO best practices. • Document lessons learned and update SOPs accordingly. • Ensure effective coordination with FAO Security Service at regional and main HQ levels

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

• University degree in security studies, political science, international relations, or related field. • At least 3 years of progressive experience in security management, preferably within the UN system or international organizations. • Working knowledge level C of English and of Tok Pisin • National of Papua New Guinea

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus • Teamwork • Communication • Building Effective Relationships • Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement.

Technical/Functional Skills

• Work experience in more than one location or area of work or operational context (e.g. field and office-based settings), including exposure to diverse security environments. • Extent and relevance of experience in risk assessment, emergency planning, and interagency coordination • Extent and relevant of experience in military or police service with a clean and verifiable track record, reflecting integrity, discipline, and adherence to national and international standards of conduct. • Excellent written and oral communication skills in English, with the ability to produce clear and compelling content. • Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively in multicultural teams and coordinate with government, media, and partner organizations. • Proficiency in standard office software (e.g., MS Office). Experience with content management systems and multimedia editing tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) is an asset.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing)
  • Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted
  • Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at http://www.whed.net/
  • For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website: http://www.fao.org/employment/home/en/
  • Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances.

Potential interview questions

Can you describe a time when you had to conduct a security risk assessment? This question evaluates your practical experience in assessing risks and planning for security measures. Provide a specific example, detailing the context, your actions, and the outcomes.
How do you ensure compliance with security protocols in field operations? The interviewer wants to understand your approach to maintaining security standards. Pro members can see the explanation.
What strategies do you use for effective communication in a multicultural environment? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Describe your experience with emergency preparedness and planning. How did you contribute? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Can you discuss your approach to team collaboration in high-stress situations? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
How do you stay updated on evolving security trends and threats? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
What tools or software do you use for risk assessment and incident reporting? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
How do you conduct training sessions for staff on security awareness? Pro members can see the explanation. Pro members can see the explanation.
Added 7 months ago - Updated 7 months ago - Source: fao.org