JOB DESCRIPTION

INTERNATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS UNION

The ITU – the principal United Nations agency for information and communication technologies – has the task of connecting the world. To this end, it manages the radio frequency spectrum and satellite orbits internationally, works to strengthen communications infrastructure in developing countries, and develops global standards that ensure the seamless interconnection of very diverse communication systems.

The ITU has a zero-tolerance policy towards all forms of harassment. The ITU is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages all candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, religious or ethnic background, including persons with disabilities, to apply to join the organization. Gender parity is of great importance to the ITU.

Radio communications engineer

Vacancy Notice Number: 2206
Sector: BR
Department: TSD
Contract Country: Switzerland
Duty Station: Geneva

Job Number: R43/P3/756
Grade: P3
Contract Type: Fixed-term
Contract Duration: 2 years with possibility of extension
Publication Type: External
Application Deadline (Midnight Geneva time): January 13, 2026

ORGANIZATIONAL UNIT

The Radiocommunication Bureau (RB) is responsible for the application of the Radio Regulations and for providing the necessary administrative and technical support for the World and Regional Radiocommunication Conferences organized by the ITU, the Radiocommunication Assemblies, and the Radiocommunication Study Commissions. It implements international regulatory procedures for the registration of frequency assignments and orbital positions, assists administrations in coordinating and implementing their frequency spectrum and orbital position requirements, and helps resolve cases of harmful interference. It provides specialized technical secretariat services to the Radiocommunication Study Commissions and the Radiocommunication Assembly for the purpose of establishing Recommendations on spectrum use and the characteristics of radio systems. The RB comprises four departments: the Space Services Department, the Ground Services Department, the Information Technology, Administration and Publications Department, and the Study Commissions Department.

Within the Radiocommunication Bureau, the Earth Services Department (TSD) comprises three divisions: the Broadcasting Services Division (BCD), the Fixed and Mobile Services Division (FMD), and the Earth Services Publication and Registration Division (TPR). The Department is responsible for implementing the ITU Radio Regulations by ensuring the regulatory and technical processing of frequency assignments notified by ITU Member States for Earth services. It is also responsible for implementing the procedures related to the Global and Regional Plans. Furthermore, it provides assistance to ITU Member States regarding frequency selection and the handling of harmful interference cases. The Department is responsible for implementing the administrative and operational provisions of the Radio Regulations, including the aspects of safeguarding human life in aeronautical and maritime services. The Department edits and publishes all data publications concerning Earth services. He also conducts studies and other activities for the preparation of World and Regional Radiocommunication Conferences.

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the supervision of the Chief of the Service Publications Section, within the Land Services Publication and Registration Division, the incumbent performs the following tasks:

• Coordinates the maintenance and improvement of the Maritime Radio Service (MARS) systems and databases in accordance with the Radio Regulations and the Decisions, Resolutions and Recommendations adopted by the World Radiocommunication Conference.
• Examines and analyzes the application or evolution of operational procedures relating to the radio frequency spectrum, with a view to their publication in the appropriate service publications relating to the maritime service.
• Develops specifications and validation rules and tests new, revised or improved procedures, databases and systems.
• Coordinates the updating and updating of regulatory content on the MARS system websites and the Nomenclature of International Emission Control Stations, prepares frequently asked questions and collaborates with colleagues in the section on the preparation of related information and documents.
• Prepares statistics and reports on submissions concerning land-based service stations, published in the Nomenclature of Ship Stations and Assigned Maritime Mobile Service Identities (List V) and in the Nomenclature of Coastal Stations and Stations Performing Special Services (List IV).
• Analyzes requests for the use of ITU maritime service data submitted by government agencies, private companies, etc., and proposes measures relating to other relevant ITU services. Participates in studies aimed at improving the content and dissemination methods of maritime service publications.
• Monitors the development of the Cospas-Sarsat system, determines the issues that the BR management must consider regarding the Bureau’s activities in protecting the 406-406.1 MHz band, and prepares the corresponding reports.
• Attends meetings as needed, including those of study committees. Contributes to the preparatory work for conferences, meetings of ITU-R working groups, seminars and workshops, as well as other international forums dealing with maritime service issues.
• Performs any other task assigned to him.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS

Application of specialist knowledge; Ability to communicate effectively; Training and knowledge exchange; Commitment to the organization; Results-oriented approach; and, Team spirit and collaboration.

FUNCTIONAL SKILLS

Analytical skills, sound judgment, and decision-making ability

Customer focus and service delivery

Openness to innovation and change

Establishing networks and partnerships

Ability to plan and organize

TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Knowledge of the application of the provisions of the Radio Regulations relating to the maritime service.
• Ability and willingness to keep oneself constantly informed of advances in information technology.
• Knowledge of maritime radio communication technologies.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

A higher university degree in telecommunications engineering or a related field (science/engineering, electrical/electronic engineering) OR training received from a reputable higher education institution, culminating in a degree equivalent to a higher university degree in one of the aforementioned fields.
For internal candidates, an undergraduate degree in one of the aforementioned fields, combined with seven years of relevant professional experience, may replace the higher university degree for promotion or rotation purposes.
Additional training at a maritime education institution recognized by the International Maritime Organization would be an advantage.

Experience:

At least five years of experience in positions of increasing responsibility in the field of radiocommunication services, including at least two years at the international level. A doctorate in a related field may be considered equivalent to two years of professional experience.
Experience in maritime service matters, particularly concerning the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

Experience in web page design would be an asset.

LANGUAGES:

Knowledge of one of the six official languages ​​of the Union (English, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, French, Russian) at an advanced level and knowledge of a second official language at an intermediate level. Knowledge of a third official language would be an advantage. (According to the provisions of Council Resolution 626, the language proficiency requirements may be relaxed for candidates from developing countries: when candidates from these countries possess a high level of proficiency in one of the official languages ​​of the Union, their application may be considered).

RIGHTS AND BENEFITS

Salary:
The total annual salary consists of a net annual salary (net of taxes and before deduction of contributions to health insurance and the Pension Fund) in USD and a post allowance (cost-of-living allowance). The post allowance is variable and may be changed without notice, in accordance with the rates set in the United Nations Common System for Salaries and Benefits.
Annual salary starting from $70,212 + post allowance $57,153.
Other allowances and benefits are subject to the specific terms of engagement; please refer to: https://jobs.itu.int/content/Ce-que-nous-offrons/?locale=fr_FR

INFORMATION ON THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Please note that all applicants must complete an online application and provide full and accurate information. To apply, please visit the ITU Careers website . Candidate assessment is based on the criteria outlined in the vacancy announcement and may include tests and/or assessments, as well as a competency-based interview. The ITU uses communication technologies such as video or teleconferencing, email correspondence, etc., for candidate assessment. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and candidates at the final selection stage will be subject to reference checks based on the information provided. Messages from email addresses other than the ITU’s @itu.int address should not be considered. The ITU does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.