Introduction

The temporary position is located in the Security Unit within the Internal Services and Administration Department (INTSERV). This is a part-time 50% position for 6 months.

INTSERV is responsible for a wide range of services regarding facilities and property management, environmental sustainability, occupational safety and health, security and safety, logistics and mail services, publishing and publication production management, diplomatic privileges, travel and transport and provision of other central services. In addition to the service delivery at ILO headquarters, each unit provides expert advice and guidance in their respective domain to ILO headquarters and the field.

Under the direct supervision of the Head of the Security Unit, the HQ Safety and Security Officer of the Headquarters Security Unit is responsible for the overall safety and security of ILO Headquarters staff, premises and visitors with particular attention to major events and high-level visits.

The position reports to the Head of the Security Unit.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Advise on updates to security and safety action plans, contingency plans for HQ security and safety management, in accordance with UN policies, standards and regulations. Assess all security and safety issues, and situations as they relate to the threats and risks to the lLO headquarters, staff, visitors, and property. Recommend appropriate operational and technical measures and manage the implementation regarding procedures related to the new Security Perimeter.
2. Conduct risk and threat assessments for major events such as the ILC and/or Governing Body sessions in close collaboration with other Departments of ILO, and external entities including the Host Country authorities, the Diplomatic Police and UNOG safety and security department. Prepare security measures and contingency plans to ensure safety and security during these major events.
3. Guide security staff to prepare for the opening of the new security pavilion and perimeter in 2026.
4. Assess security and safety equipment needs for HQ, ensure their availability, and adapt them as necessary to respond to changing security situations. In collaboration with FACILITIES, oversee the testing of and monitor the minimum preventive maintenance of all safety and security equipment and installations.
5. Prepare reports and relevant statistics in respect to access control, safety and security challenges, including accidents and incidents, at ILO headquarters. Monitor and analyse them and make recommendations based on lessons learned.
6. Assist the Head of the ILO Security Unit in his advisory role for the Director of INTSERV, and the ILO Management in matters related to safety and security..
7. Act as security focal point for the Governing Body and ILC 2026 meetings.
8. Perform any other duties as assigned by the Head of the ILO Security Unit

optional section 2 (only if needed)

optional section 3 (only if needed)

Required qualifications

Education

Advanced university degree in security management, engineering, architecture or other relevant field including fire safety science, or fire (safety) engineering. A first-level university degree in combination with three additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Qualifications in Swiss Fire protection standards and the Security Certification Programme (SCP) is an asset.

Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in security, risk or disaster or emergency management in the public or private service areas, such as national security, military or police, or in a corporate environment is required.

Experience in security and safety operations in a leadership position, including contingency planning and crisis management is required. Experience in fire safety contingency plans in major compounds and assessing facilities for fire safety compliance and prevention is desirable. Experience in Security Management System within the United Nations or similar international organisation is desirable.

Languages

Excellent command of one working language (English or French) and good knowledge of the other.

Competencies

In addition to the ILO core competencies, this position requires:

Excellent knowledge of security risk management methodology and tools, including security risk analysis. Knowledge of physical security systems and technologies and management of security operations. Ability to communicate verbally and in writing on complex and technical subjects in a clear and structured manner. Sound knowledge of Swiss fire safety standards (AEA/EN/SES regulations) is required. Knowledge of UN Security system policies, rules regulations and procedures would be considered an asset. Excellent knowledge of financial rules and regulations. Sound knowledge of office’s policies, administrative procedures and practices. Ability to research and interpret various guidelines and policies for application to address difficult administrative related issues. Decision making and problem-solving skills. Excellent drafting skills. Good communication and presentation skills. Negotiation skills. Computer applications skills. Organisational and management skills. Demonstrated ability to develop, implement, monitor and evaluate activities of the work unit/programme.