Security Officer – East & Southern Africa

About the role

The Security Officer will serve as the security focal point for UNOPS' East and Southern Africa Multi‑Country Office (ESAMCO). You will provide advisory, coordination and operational support to ensure safe programme delivery and consistent application of UNOPS and UNSMS security standards across the region.

Key responsibilities

• Reinforce security risk management as a core component of all UNOPS operations and projects in the ESAMCO area.
• Monitor security developments, maintain situational awareness of emerging threats and deliver timely security updates to the Regional Security Adviser and management.
• Conduct Security Risk Assessments (SRAs) and develop mitigation plans.
• Advise project teams on local threats, vulnerabilities and appropriate protective measures.
• Integrate security considerations into project planning, budgeting and implementation phases.
• Review project proposals from a security perspective, conduct field assessments and recommend improvements.
• Support the development, implementation and periodic review of Security Plans, Residential Security Measures and contingency arrangements.
• Contribute to Business Continuity Planning from a security and safety perspective and assist with regular BCP drills.
• Coordinate with UNDSS and other UN agencies to ensure effective information‑sharing, compliance and crisis response.

Required profile

• Demonstrated experience providing technical, operational and advisory security support in an international or multi‑country context.
• Strong knowledge of the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS) and related UN security policies.
• Proven ability to conduct security risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies.
• Excellent analytical skills and the capacity to integrate security considerations into project planning and budgeting.
• Effective communication and coordination skills with UN agencies, implementing partners and internal stakeholders.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work within a leading UN agency on high‑impact development projects.
• Exposure to a diverse, multi‑country environment across East and Southern Africa.
• Professional development in international security management.