Improvised Explosive Device Disposal Specialist (IEDD Specialist)

Peace and Security Cluster

For over 20 years, UNOPS Peace and Security Cluster (PSC) has provided portfolio and project management services in the area of mine action and explosive hazards, that are reinforced by comprehensive management and oversight controls. 

Under this umbrella, the Cluster is responsible for the implementation of projects that, through the engagement of inputs such as personnel, third parties, assets and other resources, deliver activities that produce substantive mine action outputs. 

Project management is conducted in line with UNOPS Project Management Manual (PMM), which incorporates best practices in the field, as well with a view to quality and cross-cutting initiatives such as workforce and talent management; knowledge and information management; health, safety, social and environmental management; gender parity and mainstreaming; and diversity and inclusion. This comprehensive delivery platform is implemented in accordance with partner requirements and in line with UNOPS rules and regulations through the leadership of the Cluster Director, who has the overall authority and accountability for the performance of PSC on behalf of its clients. 

Background Information - PSC Democratic Republic of the Congo Project Unit

The PSC Democratic Republic of the Congo Project Unit operates as an integral part of Peace and Security Cluster structure. The Head of the DRC Project Unit reports to the PSC Director who provides direction and guidance. S/he is responsible for planning, implementing, monitoring, supervising and closing all projects in the country in order to support substantive partners in delivering its mandate. 

In The DRC, PSC’s partner is the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), and UNMAS’ representative in-country is the Chief of Mine Action Programme (CMAP). The CMAP is therefore the HPU’s primary stakeholder. UNOPS PSC and UNMAS have developed a delineation of responsibilities, using a RACI responsibility matrix to define who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted and Informed. The HPU is expected to work in close cooperation with the CMAP, ensuring that, in substance, the DRC mine action programme operates as one integrated team. 

Under the direct supervision of the Head of Project Unit, the IEDD Specialist will carry out the following tasks:

1. Operations – Design and planning 

• Support the Head of Operations in providing input to the HPU on programme and project design documents from an operational and technical standpoint, relating the the UNMAS MONUSCO IED response 

• Ensure that implementation plans have viable timelines, are assigned appropriate resources, and that implementation options reflect the knowledge of the context, as well as UNOPS’ mechanisms and policies

2. Operations - Implementation and monitoring 

• Oversee all aspects of Explosive Threat Mitigation  related activities carried out by staff under your supervision and control.

• Stay abreast of the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS), International Ammunition Technical Guidelines (IATG’s) and United Nations Improvised Explosive Device Disposal Standards (UN IEDD Standards); ensure that Implementing Partners Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) are in line with international standards when required by the Chief of Operation as part of the desk assessment. 

• Develop the capacity of the DRC national security institutions deployed in the Mission AoR to an appropriate level in accordance with international standards for Weapons and Ammunition Management

• Provide advice and input in the development of strategic and procedural documents related to EOD/IEDD matters in support of the project.

• Work with responsible experts to ensure operations are conducted in accordance with UNOPS policies and standards, such as: Financial and procurement rules, Contract and grant management policies, Project management standards, Health, safety, social and environmental standards, Gender parity and mainstreaming policies, Information management systems and standards and Organisational design standards and human resources policies

• Ensure operations are conducted in accordance with mine action technical standards, such  as: International Mine Action Standards (IMAS) and corresponding National Technical Specifications and Guidelines (NTSGs) 

• Oversee, coordinate, and monitor mine action operations and performance (both operations conducted in-house and those conducted through third-party contractors and grantees), this includes 1) ensure third-party contracts and grants are delivered in accordance with contractual / grant terms and conditions, including in accordance with mine action technical, operational and quality assurance processes (Implementation Plan, SOPs, task orders issuance, accreditation) and 2) provide technical advice on current IED threats, possible vulnerable points and historical data

• Conduct post Blast Assessments when necessary and write detailed investigation reports

• Develop liaison with MONUSCO Force and UNPOL providing updates and information regarding Explosive THreat Mitigation. 

• Advise the Head of Operations on potential technical and operational issues that may impact the achievement of programme / project outcomes and appropriate solutions.

• When requested, act as the Investigating Officer for Detailed Independent Investigations or Boards of Inquiry for Mine/ERW/IED Accidents or incidents.

• Eensure operational plans are effective and reviewed regularly.

• Support the HPU and HoO with the development of training Modules and packages relating to The MONUSCO UNMAS IED response plan as well as the MONUSCO UNMAS cooperation agreement with UNPOL.

• Perform other related duties in support of the UNMAS programme’s objectives as directed by the HPU

3. Stakeholder management

• In support of the HPU, manage relationships with the CMAP and other direct UNOPS stakeholders, particularly around operational and technical issues

4. People management

• Develop and conduct training, and manage the quality of training on Explosive Hazards and IED Threat Mitigation as required.

• Mentor and advise operations personnel in planning, execution and delivery of allocated projects, ensuring incorporation of best operational processes.

• Promote teamwork, collaboration and diversity by providing the Operations team with clear direction, objectives and guidance to enable them to perform their duties responsibly, effectively and efficiently.

• Lead national and international UNOPS personnel in a multicultural team, ensuring a professional, ethical and well-managed operations team.

• Foster a positive and enabling work environment, respectful of both men and women, and ensure that the highest standards of conduct are observed.

• Ensure that regular performance reviews are conducted, and any issues are immediately addressed.

5. Knowledge management and innovation

• Ensure records of operations-related files are well maintained.

• Effectively manage efficient and effective operations in his AOR 

• Keep abreast of and incorporate latest/best practices, approaches and technology to enhance operational results

• Provide Technical Training to mission and civilian personnel

Impact of Results:

The effective and successful performance by the Operations Officer directly impacts the achievement of UNOPS project deliverables and UNMAS programme results and consequently reinforces the visibility and image of the UNMAS programme.

Education:

• Advanced University Degree (master degree or equivalent) with 5 years of relevant experience OR

• First Level University Degree (bachelor degree or equivalent) with 7 years experience OR

• Military or police experience with 11 years of relevant experience

• IEDD certification is required (as per UN IEDD Standards) 
• EOD Level 3 certification is required

Contract type: IICA (International Individual Contract Agreement)

• Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.

• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.

• Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.

• UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures,  languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce. 

• Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.

• We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process.  If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.

Terms and Conditions 

• For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post. 

• For retainer contracts, you must complete a few Mandatory Courses (they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. For more information on a retainer contract here.

• All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.

• It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners' peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. Mandated as a central resource of the United Nations, UNOPS provides sustainable project management, procurement and infrastructure services to a wide range of governments, donors and United Nations organisations.