Senior Field Security Specialist (P4) – UNDP Sudan: Roles, Responsibilities, and Requirements

March 21, 2025

13 minutes read

Senior Field Security Specialist (P4) – UNDP Sudan

This role is a high-level security management position within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), stationed in Sudan. The main objective of the Senior Field Security Specialist (SFSS) is to ensure the safety and security of UNDP staff, their families, assets, and operations in a high-risk environment, while also enabling the smooth delivery of UNDP projects and programs in the country.

1. Key Responsibilitieswordpress-6.7.1

The SFSS will be responsible for security risk management, advisory services, and collaboration with other security entities within the UN system. The key duties include:

A. Security Risk Management & Planning

Conduct security risk assessments to identify threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigation measures.
Ensure security is integrated into all levels of UNDP’s programs, from planning to implementation.
Advise senior UNDP leadership on security-related policies and potential risks.
Develop and update security plans and contingency measures for staff, premises, and operations.

B. Coordination with UNDSS & Other Security Entities

Work closely with the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) to align security measures with broader UN Security Management System (SMS) policies.
Assist in the development of UN-wide security documents, including contingency and evacuation plans.
Participate in security coordination meetings with UN agencies, NGOs, embassies, and local security counterparts.
Oversee fire safety, first aid, and emergency response training for UNDP staff.

C. Security Compliance & Staff Safety

Ensure that all UNDP personnel are included in security plans prepared by UNDSS.
Supervise national security staff and oversee their daily security duties.
Monitor security compliance of UNDP offices, residences, and equipment.
Conduct security awareness briefings and training for UNDP staff and their families.

D. Incident Response & Crisis Management@vacancyspaces.com

Act as the primary responder for security-related emergencies involving UNDP personnel.
Ensure 24/7 availability for handling security incidents (kidnapping, attacks, protests, armed conflicts, etc.).
Provide real-time security intelligence and coordinate emergency evacuations if necessary.
Investigate and report security breaches or threats to UNDP HQ and UNDSS.

E. Security Infrastructure & Technology

Recommend and implement physical security upgrades for UNDP offices and residences.
Supervise the installation and maintenance of security equipment (CCTV, alarms, access controls, etc.).
Ensure all UNDP communications are integrated into the UN Security Emergency Communications System.

2. Required Qualifications

To be eligible for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

A. Education

Master’s Degree (in Social Sciences, Security Management, International Relations, or a related field) + 7 years of experience
OR
Bachelor’s Degree + 9 years of experience
OR
Military/Police Command and Staff College Training with senior-level command experience

Formal training in security risk management is required.

B. Work Experience

At least 7-9 years of experience in security management, preferably in a conflict/post-conflict environment.
At least 5 years of international security experience within the UN system.
Experience in developing and implementing security strategies for large organizations.
Knowledge of UN Security Management System (SMS) and UNDP business processes.
Experience working with security technology (CCTV, alarm systems, communication networks, etc.).

C. Language Requirements

Fluency in English is required.
Knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.

D. Core Competencies

Crisis Management: Ability to handle emergencies effectively.
Security Risk Analysis: Strong analytical skills to assess threats and vulnerabilities.
Decision-Making: Ability to make quick, informed security decisions.
Leadership: Supervising and guiding security personnel.
Collaboration: Working with UNDSS, UN agencies, embassies, and local authorities.

3. Contract & Work Conditions

Job Level: P4 (senior professional level within the UN system)
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (1 year with a possibility of extension)
Job Location: Sudan (field-based, possibly in high-risk areas)
Mobility: The role requires flexibility to travel across the country
Work Schedule: Full-time

4. Why This Role is Important?

Sudan is currently facing political instability, armed conflict, and humanitarian crises. The SFSS plays a critical role in ensuring that UNDP’s projects can be safely implemented despite the challenges. By assessing risks, advising leadership, and coordinating with UN security entities, the SFSS helps protect UNDP staff and assets while ensuring the continuity of development programs.

Senior Field Security Specialist (P4) – UNDP Sudan

The Senior Field Security Specialist (SFSS) is a senior-level security management role within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), stationed in Sudan. The role is focused on ensuring the safety and security of UNDP staff, eligible family members, assets, resources, and facilities, while also providing strategic security advice to UNDP leadership. The position requires strong leadership, risk assessment capabilities, and crisis management skills to support UNDP’s development programs in a volatile and high-risk security environment.

This role is crucial for UNDP’s mission in Sudan, where political instability, armed conflict, and civil unrest present significant threats to UN personnel and operations. The SFSS will be responsible for advising the Resident Representative and senior leadership on security-related matters while also ensuring compliance with United Nations security policies, procedures, and frameworks. The role involves coordinating with the UN Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), UN agencies, host government authorities, NGOs, and other security stakeholders.

1. Core Responsibilities and Duties

A. Security Risk Management and Planning

One of the primary responsibilities of the SFSS is to assess security risks and provide strategic guidance to ensure the safe implementation of UNDP projects. This involves:

Conducting comprehensive security risk assessments across Sudan, particularly in areas where UNDP operates.
Analyzing security threats, including armed conflict, political instability, crime, and terrorism, and providing proactive recommendations for risk mitigation.
Ensuring security considerations are embedded in the design, planning, and implementation of UNDP projects.
Developing and maintaining security risk management plans, ensuring that all measures align with UN Security Management System (SMS) policies.
Identifying priority security risks and advising on appropriate risk mitigation measures, including physical security enhancements, protective measures, and operational security strategies.
Implementing person-centered security risk management approaches, focusing on specific vulnerabilities faced by UNDP personnel in a conflict environment.
Assisting UNDSS in developing and updating country-wide security documents and ensuring that UNDP staff are covered under the national UN Security Plan.

B. Coordination with UN Security Entities & External Stakeholders

The SFSS will work closely with various security entities, both within and outside the UN system, including:

UNDSS: Ensuring that UNDP aligns with UN-wide security risk management frameworks.
UN Agencies & Partners: Coordinating security efforts with other UN organizations, NGOs, and diplomatic missions to enhance overall security in Sudan.
Host Government Authorities: Engaging with local security forces and government agencies to ensure cooperation in protecting UNDP personnel and facilities.
Civil Society & Local Communities: Building trust with local communities to enhance security awareness and reduce risks in field locations.

The SFSS will also:

Represent UNDP in inter-agency security coordination meetings.
Maintain a network of security professionals to facilitate information-sharing and security coordination.
Contribute to the Security Cell, established by UNDSS, to ensure UN-wide security measures are effective and comprehensive.

C. Security Compliance and Oversight

The SFSS will ensure security standards are upheld across all UNDP offices, premises, and staff accommodations by:

Implementing security risk management measures for UNDP premises and recommending enhancements where necessary.
Conducting regular security audits of UNDP offices, guesthouses, warehouses, and other operational sites.
Ensuring fire safety systems, first aid resources, and emergency communication protocols are in place and fully functional.
Overseeing the installation and maintenance of security equipment, such as:
- CCTV surveillance systems
- Alarm systems
- Access control measures
- Emergency communication networks
Advising on selection and procurement of security-related equipment to enhance physical security and operational safety.
Monitoring security compliance of UNDP staff, contractors, and service providers.
Reviewing and testing Business Continuity Plans (BCPs) to ensure UNDP can continue operating in times of crisis.

D. Incident Response and Crisis Management

A critical part of the SFSS role is managing security incidents and responding to emergency situations. Key responsibilities include:

Serving as the focal point for all security incidents involving UNDP personnel, facilities, or projects.
Coordinating emergency response protocols for security incidents such as:
- Kidnappings or hostage situations
- Armed attacks or civil unrest
- Medical emergencies
- Terrorist threats
Ensuring a 24/7 emergency response system is in place, with clear protocols for handling crises.
Providing real-time security intelligence to UNDP leadership and field teams.
Leading evacuation planning and ensuring UNDP has access to safe zones and alternative operational sites in case of crisis.
Investigating and reporting security breaches to UNDSS and UNDP HQ, ensuring transparency and compliance.

E. Security Awareness and Training

The SFSS will oversee security training programs for all UNDP personnel to ensure they are prepared for potential threats. Responsibilities include:

Developing and delivering security orientation sessions for new UNDP staff.
Conducting personal security awareness training, covering:
- Safe travel procedures
- Crisis management
- Response to armed attacks
- Hostage survival techniques
Ensuring that UNDP drivers, field staff, and contractors are trained in basic security measures.
Coordinating with UNDSS to conduct fire drills, first aid training, and security evacuation simulations.

2. Required Qualifications and Experience

A. Educational Requirements

To qualify for the SFSS position, candidates must have:

A Master’s Degree in Security Studies, Political Science, International Relations, Crisis Management, or related fields, with at least 7 years of experience.
OR a Bachelor’s Degree with 9 years of experience.
OR formal military/police command training with senior-level command experience.

Additionally, candidates must have:

Formal training in security risk management.

B. Professional Experience

At least 7-9 years of experience in security management with a focus on conflict/post-conflict environments.
At least 5 years of international-level security experience within the United Nations or similar organizations.
Strong experience in developing security risk management frameworks.
Previous experience working in Sudan or similar high-risk environments is an advantage.

C. Language Requirements

Fluency in English is required.
Knowledge of Arabic is desirable.

D. Core Competencies

Crisis Management – Ability to handle emergency situations effectively.
Security Risk Analysis – Strong analytical skills to assess threats.
Decision-Making – Ability to make fast, informed security decisions.
Leadership & Team Management – Supervising national security teams.
Collaboration – Working with UNDSS, UN agencies, and local security forces.

3. Work Conditions and Contract Details

Job Level: P4 (senior professional level in the UN system)
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (1 year, renewable based on performance and funding)
Duty Station: Sudan (various field locations, including high-risk zones)
Work Schedule: Full-time, with on-call responsibilities for security emergencies
Travel Requirements: Frequent travel to high-risk areas within Sudan

4. Why This Role Matters

Sudan is facing severe political instability, armed conflict, and humanitarian crises. The role of Senior Field Security Specialist (SFSS) is crucial for ensuring UNDP can continue its development and humanitarian efforts safely. By managing security risks and providing leadership in crisis situations, the SFSS enables UNDP to deliver vital aid, development projects, and support to the people of Sudan.

Would you like assistance in preparing a cover letter, CV, or interview strategy for this role?

Senior Field Security Specialist (P4) – UNDP Sudan

The Senior Field Security Specialist (SFSS) is a critical security leadership role within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), specifically focused on providing expert security advice, risk assessments, and crisis response strategies to safeguard UNDP personnel, programs, and assets in Sudan. This role requires strong leadership, security management experience, and a deep understanding of conflict environments to navigate the volatile security landscape in the region.

Sudan is currently experiencing armed conflicts, political instability, humanitarian crises, and terrorism-related threats, making security risk management essential for the UN’s mission. The SFSS will act as the primary security advisor to UNDP’s senior leadership and will work in close collaboration with UNDSS, UN agencies, local security forces, NGOs, and governmental authorities to implement effective security risk mitigation strategies.

1. Key Responsibilities and Duties

A. Security Risk Management and Threat Analysis

The SFSS is responsible for leading comprehensive security risk management efforts, ensuring that threat assessments and risk analyses inform UNDP’s strategic decisions and field operations. The specific responsibilities include:

Conducting regular security risk assessments across Sudan, identifying high-risk areas and potential threats that may impact UNDP operations.
Analyzing and tracking security trends, including political unrest, armed conflicts, terrorism, crime, and natural disasters.
Developing security risk management plans (SRMPs) that align with UN Security Management System (UNSMS) policies.
Providing risk mitigation recommendations for UNDP projects, ensuring security considerations are integrated into project planning and implementation.
Advising UNDP senior leadership on risk exposure and potential operational disruptions due to security threats.
Ensuring that risk assessments are up to date and adjusted based on evolving security conditions in Sudan.

B. Security Compliance and Oversight

As a senior security official, the SFSS ensures UNDP’s compliance with all UN security policies, protocols, and best practices. This involves:

Conducting security audits of all UNDP offices, guesthouses, warehouses, and field locations.
Ensuring that all physical security measures are effectively implemented, including:
- Perimeter security (fencing, controlled access points, guard patrols).
- Electronic surveillance (CCTV cameras, alarm systems, motion sensors).
- Emergency communication networks (satellite phones, radio communication).
- Evacuation plans and safe rooms in high-risk areas.
Verifying security compliance of all UNDP staff and field teams.
Overseeing the installation and maintenance of security infrastructure.
Monitoring security-related contracts and service providers (such as private security companies).
Ensuring that fire safety protocols, medical emergency response plans, and business continuity plans (BCPs) are in place and regularly updated.

C. Incident Response and Crisis Management

Given Sudan’s complex security environment, the SFSS plays a vital role in responding to security incidents, emergencies, and crises affecting UNDP operations. Responsibilities include:

Serving as the focal point for all security incidents involving UNDP personnel, assets, and projects.
Coordinating emergency response actions for:
- Evacuations and relocations due to armed conflict or civil unrest.
- Medical emergencies and mass casualty incidents affecting UN staff.
- Terrorist attacks or bomb threats targeting UNDP premises or convoys.
- Natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes affecting UNDP operations.
Establishing clear crisis communication channels to keep UNDP leadership informed during emergency situations.
Collaborating with UNDSS to develop and refine crisis response protocols.
Leading post-incident investigations, documenting security breaches, and recommending corrective actions.
Conducting emergency drills and crisis simulations to ensure staff preparedness.

D. Coordination with Security Stakeholders

The SFSS must work closely with internal and external security actors to enhance overall security collaboration. This includes:

Maintaining strong coordination with UNDSS, UN Security Management Teams (SMTs), and UN country leadership.
Establishing security partnerships with local government agencies, military forces, and law enforcement.
Engaging in regular inter-agency security meetings with other UN agencies, NGOs, and international organizations operating in Sudan.
Sharing security intelligence and best practices to promote collective safety among humanitarian and development partners.
Ensuring that security coordination mechanisms are effective and responsive to evolving threats.

E. Staff Safety, Security Awareness, and Capacity Building

A key aspect of the SFSS role is ensuring that UNDP personnel are equipped with the necessary security knowledge and skills to operate safely in Sudan’s challenging environment. This includes:

Organizing security awareness training sessions for all UNDP staff, covering topics such as:
- Personal safety and situational awareness.
- Hostile environment survival training (HEST).
- Kidnap and hostage survival protocols.
- First aid and medical emergency response.
- Road safety and secure travel procedures.
Conducting briefings for newly deployed staff and visitors on security risks and mitigation strategies.
Ensuring that UNDP drivers, field workers, and contractors are properly trained in convoy security and defensive driving techniques.
Collaborating with UNDSS to organize fire drills, active shooter response training, and mass evacuation exercises.

2. Required Qualifications and Competencies

A. Educational Background

To be eligible for the SFSS position, candidates must possess:

A Master’s degree in Security Studies, International Relations, Political Science, Crisis Management, or a related field with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience.
OR A Bachelor’s degree with at least 9 years of relevant experience in security risk management.
OR Formal military or law enforcement command training, supplemented by extensive experience in security operations and crisis response.

B. Professional Experience

A minimum of 7-9 years of experience in security management and crisis response in complex, high-risk environments.
At least 5 years of international security experience within the UN, international organizations, NGOs, or military/police forces.
Proven expertise in developing security risk management frameworks and implementing security best practices in conflict zones.
Experience in inter-agency coordination and liaison with host country security authorities.
Prior experience working in Sudan or similar conflict-affected countries is an asset.

C. Language Proficiency

Fluency in English is mandatory.
Knowledge of Arabic is desirable.

D. Key Competencies

Crisis Response Leadership – Ability to lead emergency operations under high-stress conditions.
Security Risk Analysis – Strong analytical skills to assess, predict, and mitigate threats.
Strategic Decision-Making – Rapid and effective decision-making in high-risk situations.
Team Management – Experience in supervising security teams and field staff.
Inter-Agency Collaboration – Ability to coordinate security efforts across multiple organizations.

3. Work Conditions and Additional Information

Job Grade: P4 (Senior Security Professional Level within the UN system).
Contract Type: Fixed-Term (1-year renewable based on performance and funding availability).
Duty Station: Sudan, with frequent travel to field locations and high-risk zones.
Work Schedule: Full-time, with 24/7 on-call responsibilities in case of security emergencies.
Travel Requirements: Frequent and extended field missions across Sudan.

4. Impact of This Role

Sudan is experiencing ongoing security challenges that directly impact UNDP’s humanitarian and development work. The Senior Field Security Specialist (SFSS) plays an essential role in ensuring that UNDP can operate safely while delivering critical projects focused on economic recovery, peacebuilding, and humanitarian aid. By mitigating risks, providing security leadership, and ensuring crisis preparedness, the SFSS enables UNDP to continue its mission of supporting Sudan’s people during a time of crisis.

Would you like support with a CV, cover letter, or interview preparation for this role?

I couldn’t locate a current job listing for the Senior Field Security Specialist (P4) – UNDP Sudan position. It’s possible that this vacancy has either been filled or is not currently advertised. For the most up-to-date information on UNDP job openings, I recommend visiting the UNDP Careers page, where you can search for available positions by region and specialty. UNDP+3UNDP+3UNDP+3

Additionally, other UN agencies, such as UNICEF, regularly post security-related positions in Sudan. For example, UNICEF has advertised roles like the Security Analyst for their Sudan Country Office. You can explore such opportunities on the UNICEF Careers page. Vacancies

Regularly checking these career pages will help you stay informed about new job postings that align with your expertise.