Purpose of the Job

The purpose of the HSS Officer is to support the HSS Coordinator, to implement the security functions at Area Office/ Field Offices-when needed and support the program on HSS related issues.

Generic responsibilities

• Ensure adherence with NRC Afghanistan Security Management Plan and SOPs
• Implement delegated HSS tasks according to plan of action
• Prepare and develop status reports as required by management
• Ensure proper filing of documents
• Ensure security support to projects targeting beneficiaries most in need, and explore and asses new and better ways to support program teams
• Promote and share ideas for technical improvement

Specific responsibilities

• Provide technical support to the area office on HSS policies, procedures, guidelines and planning for staff safety, operational security and program continuity in Uruzgan ;
• Ensure compliance to NRC Security Management Framework within the SMP and all annexes.
  Work with Security Coordinator to develop, consolidate and implement operating procedures and contingency plans;
• Evaluate, review, and update the hibernation and evacuation plans for NRC Uruzgan and ensure that the practical preparations are in place and known to all staff involved.
• Conduct security risk assessments of areas of operation, offices and residences.

Follow up on actions to be taken to ensure compliance with minimum safety and security standards.

• Undertake continual assessments of equipment like, Thuraya, VHF/HF etc., and the protocols by which that equipment is used, to ensure that minimal conditions for security are being met.
• Alert security focal point/s of important events, by monitoring internet, TV and radio news in English and local languages, as well as via security alert systems.
• Develop ongoing relationships with local authorities as needed and other key stakeholders in the ground.
• Work to ensure that NRC, its mission, and work in the province is known and accepted.
• Work to encourage stakeholders to work with the NRC in ensuring that staff and programs are safe and allowed to continue humanitarian activities over the province.
• Provide security input and advice in assessments to consider new NRC programs in new geographic areas.
• In coordination with Security Coordinator liaise with relevant security actors e.g., NGO Security Focal Point, other NGO security coordinators, UN, local community stakeholders, Governors, etc

Generic professional competencies: 

• Bachelor’s degree in social sciences or related field.
• A minimum of 4 years of non-profit or INGO work experience within international humanitarian assistance programs with demonstrated capabilities in planning, organizing and executing security operations in the field.
• Understanding the humanitarian principles and specific sub-sector work linked to NGO field and operations contexts.
• Ability to gain a precise understanding of the various local, regional, country and international policies, operational positions and interactions, providing clear dynamic briefings and analysis of given and unfolding security and political situations when they occur.
• Previous NGO security management experience is an asset.
• Strong verbal & written English Language skill is required.
• Fluent in local languages.
• Area knowledge Uruzgan and relevant area
• Knowledge about security related actors in Uruzgan and relevant area
• Strong knowledge of cultural sensitivities, traditional behaviours & security context in Uruzgan
• Able to travel to other provinces on daily/weekly and monthly basis when needed.
• Advanced knowledge in communications technology, including, satellite communications, cell phone, etc.
• Strong experience as a trainer; ability to develop, implement, facilitate and impart learning to a wide range of audiences.
• Previous experience from working in complex and volatile contexts
• Documented results related to the position’s responsibilities.

Behavioral competencies

• Planning and delivering results
• Empowering and building trust
• Communicating with impact and respect
• Handling insecure environment
• Strategic thinking
• Influencing