SOC Operations Assistant Role at UNDP: Ensuring Safety and Security in Field Missions

March 12, 2025

15 minutes read

UNDP and Its Values:http://SOC Operations Assistant at UNDP

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is an organization that promotes sustainable development and focuses on solving global challenges like poverty, inequality, and climate change. They have a strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), ensuring fair treatment for all, and emphasize that marginalized or excluded populations are encouraged to apply. They are also dedicated to preventing harassment and discrimination in the workplace.

Role Overview:

The SOC Operations Assistant is primarily responsible for supporting the UN Security Operations Centre (SOC) in Yangon, Myanmar. The role involves coordinating and tracking the safety and security of UN field missions, which are critical for the overall operations of UN personnel.

Key Responsibilities:@vacancyspaces.com

Tracking UN Field Missions and Personnel Movements:
- The assistant will be responsible for ensuring that the movements of UN staff and vehicles on field missions are tracked accurately.
- Maintaining a detailed incident logbook and checking in with staff members and wardens during their missions.
- Collecting information on security incidents or issues and reporting them in real-time.
Telecommunications Support:
- You will communicate security-related updates and emergency information to the field staff.
- Liaise with local government officials to stay informed on the security situation in specific areas.
- Respond quickly to emergencies, ensuring that the right people are contacted with relevant safety information.
Knowledge Sharing and Reporting:
- The role involves maintaining and updating important contact lists (staff lists, agency security focal points, etc.).
- Ensuring that field staff is aware of the evolving security situation by sharing updates and relevant information.
- Reporting any incidents promptly to the relevant authorities.
Impact:
- The assistant’s work is crucial to ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel, particularly in volatile or remote areas.
- This role directly impacts the success of UN operations, keeping field personnel safe and informed.

Qualifications & Skills Required:

Education: A high school diploma is required. A background in telecommunications, computer science, or engineering is desirable but not mandatory.
Experience:
- At least 3 years of relevant experience, especially in roles like a radio operator, call agent, or other communication-related roles, would be an asset.
- Familiarity with software like Microsoft Office and other communication tools is necessary.
Skills:
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to handle high-pressure situations with calm and control.
- Good problem-solving and prioritization abilities.

Work Environment and Competencies:

The UNDP is looking for individuals who are adaptable and work well within a diverse environment. The role requires a positive attitude, openness to change, and a constructive approach to challenges.
The ability to maintain operational effectiveness even in stressful or emergency situations is critical.

Other Information:

Location: The job is based in Yangon, Myanmar, a region where UNDP operations focus on social, economic, and environmental development, especially in crisis or conflict areas.
Contract Duration: 1 year with the possibility of extension.
Languages: Proficiency in English is required.
Non-discrimination: The UNDP follows a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of discrimination or exploitation. It is committed to being an inclusive employer and maintaining ethical standards.

Job Link:

The job application link you shared directs to the official UNDP site, where interested candidates can submit their applications online.

If you want to apply, visit the link and follow the steps to apply for the job. Make sure your resume and cover letter highlight your relevant experience in security operations, communication, and tracking field missions.

To provide you with a more detailed explanation of the position of SOC Operations Assistant at UNDP in Yangon, Myanmar, let’s expand on the various components of the job, responsibilities, required qualifications, skills, and overall context, making sure we touch on all the key aspects and give a deeper insight into what such a role involves, its significance, and how the UNDP’s values play a central role in the job’s execution.

Introduction to the Role and Background:

The UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) operates in over 170 countries and territories, focusing on sustainable development, poverty reduction, climate change, and economic growth. Their mission is to help countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while ensuring that their efforts are inclusive, leaving no one behind. One of the key aspects of UNDP’s work is ensuring the safety and security of its personnel who are deployed in various parts of the world, especially in volatile or high-risk areas.

This particular job posting is for the position of SOC Operations Assistant, which will be based in Yangon, Myanmar. As the UNDP strives to strengthen its operational capacity in Myanmar, ensuring that staff and missions are safe is crucial. The SOC Operations Assistant plays an essential role in monitoring and managing the safety and security of UN personnel in the field, making sure that operations continue smoothly without disruptions caused by security threats.

UNDP’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

The UNDP has a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and this is woven into the fabric of all its operations. This means that the UNDP actively seeks to hire individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those from marginalized or excluded populations. These efforts are not only about recruitment but also ensuring that the workplace itself is one of inclusivity, where everyone is treated fairly and respectfully, regardless of gender, nationality, religion, race, or other identities.

Additionally, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at UNDP extends to how they view the implementation of their programs. By embracing the leave no one behind approach, the organization ensures that its programs and interventions reach vulnerable groups and communities who are typically underserved. In this role, as in others, it’s expected that all personnel uphold these values, treating every individual with dignity and respect, which is central to creating an environment where staff can thrive.

SOC Operations Assistant Role Overview:

The SOC Operations Assistant will serve as a critical component in the UN Security Operations Centre (SOC) in Yangon, Myanmar. This role involves working in close collaboration with other members of the UN Security staff and personnel, particularly focusing on the operational aspects of mission tracking, security communications, and the overall coordination of field operations.

The assistant will be part of the team responsible for supporting the Field Security Coordination Officer (FSCO) and the Security Adviser (SA), as well as liaising with other UN security personnel such as the Field Security Assistants (FSAs). The SOC Operations Assistant’s primary focus is to ensure the effective tracking of field missions and movement of UN personnel, ensuring that communications between security personnel, field staff, and other stakeholders are clear, precise, and timely.

This role is vital in situations where security concerns are heightened, and maintaining accurate records and swift communication is key to ensuring personnel safety and the continuity of mission-critical operations. The position requires an individual who can multitask effectively, adapt to changing circumstances quickly, and work efficiently under pressure, particularly in crisis situations.

Key Responsibilities:

Tracking UN Field Missions: One of the central duties of the SOC Operations Assistant is to maintain real-time tracking of UN field missions and the personnel involved in them. This includes:
- Logging the movement of UN vehicles and staff during field operations. This is an essential function, as it ensures that the location and activities of all personnel are monitored and recorded accurately.
- Tracking incidents and security events that occur during field missions and ensuring that these are reported to relevant authorities immediately.
- Conducting telephone checks with UN staff, especially with Wardens and Deputy Wardens, to ensure that all personnel are safe and operational.
- Maintaining a logbook for tracking the activities and safety of personnel, which will serve as an official record in case of any emergencies or security incidents.
Security Communications: A significant aspect of the role involves telecommunications support:
- Disseminating security updates to UN staff in the field. This could involve relaying messages regarding developing security situations, changes in mission protocols, or emergency alerts that require immediate action.
- Coordinating with local government officials, other UN agencies, and relevant stakeholders to gather security-related information. The SOC Operations Assistant will be required to stay updated on local and regional security situations, ensuring that staff members are always informed of potential risks to their safety.
- In case of emergency, the SOC Operations Assistant will contact relevant parties such as the FSCO, FSA, and Heads of Agencies to ensure that appropriate action is taken swiftly. This requires excellent decision-making and crisis management skills.
Supporting Knowledge Building: This aspect of the role is focused on maintaining and sharing information that is essential for the safety and success of UN operations:
- Updating contact lists for national and international staff at the duty station, ensuring that the information is current and accurate. This will help in case quick communication is necessary, such as in emergency scenarios.
- Monitoring security situations in areas where field missions are taking place. The SOC Operations Assistant must constantly be on alert, tracking security developments in real time and reporting any incidents that could affect the safety of personnel.
- Sharing information with relevant stakeholders, such as Security Focal Points or Agency Heads, whenever necessary. The goal is to maintain constant communication within the broader UN network to ensure that no important information is missed.
Supporting Day-to-Day Operations: In addition to these primary functions, the SOC Operations Assistant may be asked to assist with other security-related tasks as assigned by the Security Adviser (SA), Field Security Coordination Officer (FSCO), or Field Security Assistants (FSA). This could involve participating in regular briefings, assisting with the coordination of field activities, or helping in emergency drills or exercises.

Impact of the Role:

The role of the SOC Operations Assistant is crucial for the safety of UN personnel, especially in regions that are experiencing conflict, instability, or other challenging security conditions. The assistant’s work directly impacts the success of UN missions, as it ensures that staff are safe and that their movements and activities are monitored closely. This helps to protect both personnel and assets while ensuring that critical operations continue without disruption.

Given the responsibilities related to tracking personnel, reporting incidents, and communicating security information, the SOC Operations Assistant’s work plays a vital role in maintaining operational continuity. This ensures that UNDP can respond to global development challenges effectively, even in high-risk environments.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet certain educational, experience, and skills requirements.

Education:

A high school diploma is required as a minimum qualification.
A technical qualification in telecommunications or related fields (such as computer science, engineering, or information technology) is considered a desirable asset. Although it is not mandatory, having this type of background could provide candidates with an edge, as the role involves using telecommunications systems, software, and IT tools.

Experience:

The ideal candidate will have at least 3 years of relevant experience in fields such as call-center communications, radio operations, or security coordination. Experience in roles where communication and tracking of personnel or operations is critical is highly valuable.
A solid understanding of telecommunications equipment, including the ability to operate radios, tracking systems, and other communication tools, is essential.
Experience working with UN agencies or in security operations will be considered a strong advantage.
The role also requires familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and internet applications for communication and reporting purposes.

Core Competencies:

Knowledge Management and Learning: The SOC Operations Assistant should be able to share knowledge and experience with colleagues, offering helpful advice and supporting knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Operational Effectiveness: The assistant should be able to work with minimal supervision and be resourceful in solving problems that may arise. The ability to prioritize tasks, stay organized, and handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously is crucial.
Leadership and Self-Management: Even though this role is not explicitly a leadership position, the assistant must demonstrate a proactive, results-oriented approach to work. The ability to remain calm under pressure, manage stress, and stay focused on tasks is essential.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are required for interacting with a wide variety of stakeholders, from staff in the field to local government officials.

Personal Qualities:

Calm Under Pressure: The SOC Operations Assistant may find themselves in high-stakes situations where rapid decision-making is necessary. The ability to remain calm and think clearly under pressure is crucial.
Flexibility and Adaptability: The role requires the assistant to handle changing circumstances. Emergencies may arise, and the assistant must adapt quickly, adjusting priorities and taking swift action.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the SOC Operations Assistant position with UNDP in Yangon, Myanmar is a challenging and important role that ensures the safety and security of UN personnel during field missions. The assistant will play a critical part in tracking missions, providing telecommunications support, and facilitating the smooth and safe continuation of UN operations in Myanmar, particularly in high-risk or volatile environments.

The position requires a combination of technical skills, strong communication abilities, and a high level of emotional intelligence to manage stress and effectively work in crisis situations. It is an ideal role for someone who is committed to the values of the United Nations, values diversity, and is driven by a desire to contribute to the safety and well-being of others while also making a difference in international development.

If you’re interested in applying for this position, I encourage you to ensure that your application highlights any relevant experience in security coordination, telecommunications, or emergency operations. Additionally, your cover letter should emphasize your ability to remain calm under pressure, your commitment to the UN’s values, and your understanding of the specific challenges involved in working in a high-risk environment like Myanmar.

Certainly! Let’s dive deeper into each aspect of the SOC Operations Assistant position with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and provide an even more detailed exploration of the role, responsibilities, qualifications, and impact.

This extended explanation will focus on providing a comprehensive understanding of the job itself, why it is vital for UNDP operations, and the specific skills, competencies, and experience that will help a candidate succeed in this position.

Introduction to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP):

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading UN agencies responsible for supporting countries in their development efforts and addressing key global challenges. These challenges range from combating poverty, mitigating the effects of climate change, promoting economic growth, and fostering peace, justice, and strong institutions. The UNDP works directly with countries to implement national development plans, providing the necessary resources, expertise, and guidance to help countries achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The organization’s work spans the globe, and it maintains a focus on the human dimension of development—ensuring that inclusive development is at the heart of its mission. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are key principles guiding their activities, ensuring that efforts are targeted at those most in need, with a special emphasis on underserved populations.

UNDP focuses on creating sustainable change—not simply through interventions, but by empowering local populations, strengthening national capacities, and fostering partnerships to support the long-term development of each country. In volatile regions, such as Myanmar, the UNDP works diligently to maintain operational effectiveness while ensuring that its personnel are safe and secure in their missions.

The Role of the SOC Operations Assistant:

The SOC Operations Assistant role in Yangon, Myanmar is integral to ensuring that the UNDP’s operations run smoothly in a region that may face security concerns. The Security Operations Centre (SOC) plays a critical part in monitoring the safety of UN personnel, ensuring that they are well-supported and able to carry out their tasks effectively in often complex and high-risk situations. The SOC Operations Assistant works alongside the UN Security Team (including the Security Adviser (SA), Field Security Coordination Officers (FSCO), and Field Security Assistants (FSA)), facilitating the tracking of field missions, communication with field staff, and ensuring that accurate information is available for prompt action in case of security incidents.

In essence, the SOC Operations Assistant is a key support role within the UNDP’s broader field security structure. They provide day-to-day coordination, communication, and logistical support that ensures UN personnel and operations are safeguarded while on field missions, as well as supporting rapid response mechanisms when needed.

This position involves a combination of tasks related to communications, operations tracking, crisis management, and information sharing, all designed to ensure that field missions continue with the utmost security for personnel involved.

Detailed Responsibilities:

1. Tracking UN Field Missions:

The SOC Operations Assistant will have primary responsibility for tracking all movements related to UN personnel and vehicles in the field. This is a highly sensitive task, as the tracking system ensures that personnel and assets are constantly accounted for, especially when they are in potentially high-risk areas.

Movement Monitoring:
- The SOC Operations Assistant tracks field personnel’s movements by keeping a detailed log of their locations, activities, and mission assignments. This involves real-time tracking and ensuring that any mission or field operation has detailed documentation that can be referred to in case of emergencies.
- Maintaining a movement log or tracking sheet is crucial as it allows the UN Security Operations Centre (SOC) to access timely data about the status of personnel, especially if there are any security incidents during missions.
Incident Logging:
- The SOC Operations Assistant will maintain an incident logbook to record all security-related incidents or critical occurrences during missions. This logbook serves as an official record for accountability purposes and can be referred to during debriefs or investigations after an incident.
- If a security incident occurs—whether it’s related to a natural disaster, an attack, or civil unrest—the SOC Operations Assistant must quickly capture key details such as the type of incident, the location, and any impacts on staff.
Telephonic Checks with Staff:
- The assistant will also check in regularly with field staff to ensure their safety. This often involves conducting telephone checks with staff members, security wardens, and deputy wardens to confirm that they are okay and that operations are proceeding without incident.
- These checks help mitigate the risks of isolation, ensuring that any concerns or emergencies can be raised and addressed promptly.
Mission Reports:
- At the end of each day or upon the completion of a field mission, the SOC Operations Assistant is responsible for submitting mission reports to the 24/7 UN Security Operations Centre in Yangon.
- This includes information on mission status, security updates, and any additional relevant data that could affect subsequent missions or operations.

2. Providing Telecommunications Support:

A critical component of the SOC Operations Assistant’s role involves telecommunications support to ensure continuous communication between security personnel and field staff. This aspect of the job requires a combination of technical knowledge and clear communication.

Transmitting Security Information:
- The assistant will work closely with the Security Adviser (SA), Field Security Coordination Officer (FSCO), and Field Security Assistants (FSA) to communicate important security information to UN field staff.
- These communications often contain updates regarding local security conditions such as emergencies, threat assessments, or travel advisories.
Liaising with Local Authorities:
- The SOC Operations Assistant is responsible for contacting local government officials or law enforcement in the areas where UN personnel are stationed. This is especially vital in conflict-prone regions, where quick access to local information about security conditions can impact the safety of UN missions.
- Real-time updates regarding any security threats or emergencies are transmitted through these communication channels, ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are kept in the loop.
Emergency Communications:
- In the event of a crisis, the SOC Operations Assistant must act quickly to relay emergency updates to the right parties. This includes contacting Security Focal Points in various UN agencies, Agency Heads, and other emergency responders.
- In emergency scenarios, clear and concise communication can be the difference between a successful operation and a major setback.

The SOC Operations Assistant plays a key role in maintaining knowledge sharing and ensuring the coordination of security information between various UN agencies, personnel, and external stakeholders.

Maintaining Updated Contact Lists:
- An important responsibility is to maintain accurate and up-to-date contact lists of national and international staff at the duty station. This enables the assistant to quickly reach the right individuals in times of crisis.
- These contact lists should also include Security Focal Points and emergency contact information for key personnel in the field, ensuring that there is always someone available to respond to urgent matters.
Monitoring Security Situations:
- The assistant must constantly monitor security conditions in areas where field missions are active. This means staying up-to-date on local political, social, or environmental conditions that could affect personnel.
- This requires both local knowledge and the ability to obtain reliable information from external sources, such as local authorities or international security agencies.
Information Sharing:
- The role involves the dissemination of relevant information to appropriate stakeholders, ensuring that heads of agencies, security coordinators, and field staff are kept aware of developments that could impact the security of missions.
- The assistant plays a role in creating a culture of information sharing, where important updates are circulated in a timely and accurate manner.

4. Supporting Daily Operations:

Beyond the primary responsibilities, the SOC Operations Assistant also provides operational support across a range of other tasks, including logistical assistance, coordination, and helping manage the flow of security-related information within the UNDP’s operational structure.

Assisting with Field Security Planning:
- The assistant may be called upon to help plan security measures for upcoming field missions, providing logistical support to ensure that all personnel and vehicles are properly equipped and tracked during their operations.
Emergency Protocols and Drills:
- In the event of a security incident, the assistant will be involved in emergency protocols, helping ensure that all personnel follow the proper procedures and are accounted for.
- The role may also involve assisting in emergency drills, ensuring that personnel are well-prepared for various scenarios.

Qualifications and Skills Required:

Educational Requirements:

High School Certificate: The minimum education required for this position is a high school certificate. While this is the baseline, having higher education in areas such as telecommunications, engineering, or computer science is desirable. Knowledge in these areas can significantly enhance the applicant’s ability to operate communication equipment, troubleshoot technical issues, and support the technological side of security operations.

Experience Requirements:

Three Years of Relevant Experience: The candidate must have at least 3 years of relevant experience. This includes experience in call-center communications, radio operations, or other related roles where tracking and communication were integral to the job.
Experience in a security operations center (SOC) or similar roles that involve security management or field coordination is highly desirable. This ensures that the assistant is familiar with the pressures and challenges of operating in high-risk environments.

Core Competencies:

Knowledge Management: The ability to share knowledge effectively, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records, ensuring that everyone has access to critical information when needed.
Operational Effectiveness: Demonstrated ability to support the operational aspects of the mission, staying on top of movement, communications, and logistical needs.
Leadership and Teamwork: While not a direct leadership role, the position requires an individual who can lead by example, supporting the team and staying composed under pressure.

March 12, 2025

15 minutes read