Job Description

BACKGROUND

The overall mandate of the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) is to provide leadership, operational support and oversight of the security management system to enable the safest and most efficient conduct of the Programmes and activities of the United Nations System.

Under the direct supervision of the Field Security Coordination Officer for Galkayo or in his absence the Local Security Assistant (LSA) and Radio Supervisor, the Radio Operator will work in shifts to ensure that the Radio Room in Galkayo, which will serve as the Emergency Communication System (ECS) room, is manned 24/7.

As such, they will broadcast security related information originated from either the UNDSS Officers and/or LSAs which could affect operations; keep tracks of all UN vehicle movements; when required, records, individual movements; conduct radio checks with UN staff and more specifically with FSCOs. Incumbent is also required to train UN staff members in the proper use of all communications equipment as well as programming all UN radios to the various frequencies currently being used by the UN system in Somalia.

The Radio Operator works in close collaboration with the UN DSS Officer and UN DSS Assistants and other UN staff members in providing support on telecom related issues.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Summary of key functions:

•     Providing telecommunications services
•     Providing Telecommunications support and advice
•     Keeping Telecommunications Equipment Operational
•     Supporting Users
•     Support to knowledge building and knowledge sharing
•     Creation of partnerships within UN and the local communications network

Provide telecommunications services, focusing on the achievement of the following results:

• Transmits and receives messages through VHF and HF radio, telephone, fax, satellite, arranges radio conferences, selecting the most efficient and economic means for the transmission, taking into consideration the nature and priority of communications to be transmitted;
• Conducts radio Checks with UN staff members and wardens;
• Maintains a station log where all occurrences related to the operation of the UN System Communication Centre are entered. Information about every movement of UN staff members and UN vehicles in the field is also entered in the log;
• Ensures that no unauthorized communications exchanged on the network;

Provide Telecommunications support and advice, focusing on the achievement of the following results:

• In coordination with the UN Field Security Coordination Officer and Security Assistants transmits security information to update UN staff in the field on the development of the current security/emergency in the areas where they operate

Keeping Telecommunications Equipment Operational, focusing on the achievement o the following results:

• Ensures that all the equipment placed under his/her responsibility is in good working condition, make simple repairs, and/or arranges promptly for repairs or replacement of equipment;
• Maintains inventory, keeping accurate and regularly updated records of telecommunications equipment and its location, and ensuring stock is maintained at the level to meet needs;

Providing efficient support to users, focusing on the achievement of the following results:

• Assists and trains newly arriving staff members in the acquisition and operation of telecommunications/VHF and HF radio Equipment;
• Programming of telecommunications equipment for all UN Agencies;

Supports knowledge building and knowledge sharing, focusing on the achievement of the following results:

• Conduct communication training and briefings to staff increasing their communication and/or telecommunication awareness and ability to operate more efficiently.
• Circulates new communication and/or telecommunication policies and procedures to staff ensuring they comply with the UNDP rules and regulations
• Shares information creating a telecommunication and ECS network with other UN agencies, INGO/NGO partners and governmental security partners to ensure an accurate flow of information.

Ensures creation of partnerships within UN and the local communications network focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Maintain contact with UN Humanitarian Air Services Coordinator/WFP and give details to UN Agencies of flight arrivals/departures;
• Maintain and update all International and National staff lists at the duty station;
• Monitor all staff movements by tracking missions in accordance with FSCO directions. Log every event in the designed formats. Report all incidents to FSCO or the FSCO Operations Manager immediately.
• Maintain communications security at all times

Impact of Results

The duties performed by the Radio Operator have a direct impact on the security and safety of UN staff operating in the field and also the UN property.  The key results have an impact on the success of country office communications and operation activities between the country office and the various field offices.

COMPETENCIES

Corporate Competencies:

• Demonstrates commitment to UN mission, vision and values
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability
• Treats all people fairly without favoritism

Functional Competencies:

• Knowledge Management and Learning
• Shares knowledge and experience and provides helpful advice to others in the office

Development and Operational Effectiveness

• Ability to provide  basic telecommunications support services
• Good administrative  and IT skills
• Good knowledge of VHF/HF operating systems, Microsoft Windows;
• Ability to work in a team environment, with minimum supervision.
• Ability to plan, prioritize and initiative to solve problems
• Excellent analytical and communication skills;

Leadership and Self-Management

• Focuses on result for the client and responds positively to feedback
• Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude
• Remains calm, in control and good humored even under pressure
• Demonstrates strong oral and written communication skills
• Leads teams effectively and shows conflict resolution skills

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Education:

• High School education required to perform the duties of the post. University degree with focus on telecommunications and/or related disciplines (computer science, engineering) is desirable;

Experience:

• 3 years of experience including experience in radio communications is a strong asset
• Good knowledge of computer applications (MS Office, internet);
• Knowledge in hardware installation and maintenance is an asset
• Experience as Radio Operator, Call agent or related is a strong asset

Language Requirements:

• Proficiency in Somali and English (both oral and written)

DISCLAIMER

Important applicant information

All posts in the SC categories are subject to local recruitment.

Applicant information about UNDP rosters

Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

Workforce diversity

UNDP is committed to achieving diversity within its workforce, and encourages all qualified applicants, irrespective of gender, nationality, disabilities, sexual orientation, culture, religious and ethnic backgrounds to apply. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.

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