Job Vacancy - Safety and Security Manager - Peace Corps Timor-Leste

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

(for Recruitment, PSC Duties, and Performance Reviews)

PSC Position Title:	Safety & Security Manager
Hours (40 or 48):	40 hours
Reports To:	Country Director (CD)
Supervises Others:	Safety & Security Assistant (SSA)
Salary:	Starting at USD $26,269.00 annually plus benefits (depends on salary history, experience, and qualifications).
Closing Date:	September 3 2023

Minimum Requirements:

At a minimum, the successful candidate’s CV should demonstrate the following:

• Education/Certification: High school diploma.
• Proficiency in oral and written English: Level 4 (fluent) in speaking, reading, writing and understanding English and Tetum
• Experience working in a cross-cultural environment.
• OR Experience with safety and security programs of Peace Corps.
• OR Experience with safety and security programs of similar NGO/development organizations

OR Relevant professional security or law enforcement experience

• AND
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with other organizations, including local law enforcement, criminal justice, emergency management and other NGO/development agencies;
• Ability to demonstrate empathy and active listening skills to support American Volunteers who may be victim of crime or other violence;
• Ability to analyze crime trends and other risks and propose mitigation strategies;
• Demonstrated organizational and communication skills;
• Ability to work with Microsoft Office Suite (especially MS Word, Excel and Powerpoint), and other basic computer knowledge;
• Ability to conduct training and give presentations, in both English and Tetun;
• Ability to travel on short notice;
• Resourcefulness and flexibility in dealing with emergency situations;
• Knowledge of current events, safety/security issues, and criminal justice system in Timor-Leste.

Preferred Qualifications

• University degree.

Background

The mission of Peace Corps worldwide is to promote peace and friendship by:

1. To help the people of other countries in meeting their needs for trained men and women;
2. To promote a better understanding of the American people on the part of the peoples served, and;
3. To promote a better understanding of other peoples on the part of the American people.

The Peace Corps program in Timor-Leste operates at the request of the Government of Timor-Leste and works to support the priorities of the national and local governments as well as those of Timorese community members.  Over the 10 years that Peace Corps has served in Timor-Leste, over 200 volunteers have served all over the country. 

Your work with Peace Corps will contribute to the collaborative development efforts of Peace Corps and Timor-Leste, and will serve to promote better understanding between the people of Timor-Leste and the people of the United States. The work of a Peace Corps Personal Services Contractor does not limit itself to the role. Active support of the Peace Corps mission is paramount to the job because contractors are representatives of Peace Corps in Timor-Leste.

Objective of the Position

The role of the Safety and Security Manager (SSM) is to support security-related functions (i.e. site inspection and selection, Volunteer site visits, emergency planning, incident response, etc.) that are critical to post operations and Volunteer support. The Office of Safety and Security provides technical oversight of security related matters and SSM professional development. The SSM reports to the Country Director (CD) who manages day to day workload.

The SSM has primary responsibility for managing appropriate safety and security systems and procedures in compliance with MS 270 and other policies, and develops risk mitigation and response strategies to implement the Post security program. The SSM is responsible for reporting non-compliance with MS 270 to the CD. 

Under the direct supervision of the CD, the SSM may also be the contact point with the Peace Corps Safety and Security Officer (PCSSO), Regional Security Advisor (RSA), Embassy security officials, and local law enforcement agencies in carrying out the responsibilities designated below or as directed by the CD.

Technical review, evaluation and training will be conducted during PCSSO visits and through review of reports submitted and other materials produced.

Tasks & Deliverables

1. Supports and Verifies Safety and Security Policy Implementation:

Provides administrative support and verification that adequate systems are functioning to support Volunteer safety and security in accordance with Peace Corps Manual Section (MS) 270, Volunteer/Trainee Safety and Security. This should include, but is not limited to:

a. Establishes and monitors post’s system to collect site locator form information for the Volunteer Information Database (VIDA), updates the information as needed and controls for accuracy.

b. Collaborates with programming staff to develop and monitor a system for site history data.

c. Collaborates with programming staff to develop site selection criteria, protocols and a system to ensure that all Volunteer sites have been properly evaluated and documented.

d. Participates in the annual completion of the safety and security section of the Administrative Management Control Survey (AMCS) and shares results with PCSSO.

e. Ensures that a system is in place to monitor Volunteer/Trainee whereabouts.

f. Ensures that an emergency communication system is in place that allows Volunteers and staff to communicate in a timely and effective manner in cases of emergency.

g. In cooperation with other Post staff, regularly updates and monitors safety and security data in VIDA (i.e. emergency contact information, EAP events, etc.).

h. Under direction from the CD, ensures critical PCSSO and/or RSO recommendations are adequately addressed within the timeframe/deadlines outlined. adequately addressed within the timeframe/deadlines outlined.

2. Coordinates Safety and Security Training:

a. In collaboration with the Director of Programming and Training or equivalent, participates in the design, development and delivery of safety and security related Pre-Service Training (PST) and In- Service Training (IST) sessions. Collaborates with senior staff to ensure appropriate safety and security training is provided to post staff.

b. Under the technical supervision of the PCSSO, works with the Training Manager to ensure that all safety and security learning objectives are integrated into Pre-Service Training/In-Service Training (PST/IST) and successful completion is documented.

c. Regularly provides staff safety and security briefings/orientations to ensure that they understand roles and responsibilities with respect to safety and security; conducts emergency preparedness training as appropriate.

d. Provides an overview of Peace Corps’ approach to safety and security and relevant, Post-specific, security concerns/considerations during training-of-trainer (TOT) events.

e. Trains a back-up to assist with safety and security responsibilities during a crisis or when the SSM is unavailable.

3. Supports Home-Stays and Site Identification:

a. In coordination with programming and training staff, establishes that safety and security criteria for the selection of home-stay families. When appropriate, participates in the development and delivery of home-stay family orientation.

b. Visits sites with conspicuous safety and security concerns as needed to recommend for or against final approval (e.g. areas of high crime or risk of natural disaster), or to identify mitigation strategies.

c. Under the technical supervision of the PCSSO, collaborates with the programming staff and Peace Corps Medical Officer (PCMO) to develop Volunteer site and housing criteria and verifies that PCV sites and housing has been inspected and approved prior to occupancy.

d. Ensures GPS coordinates are maintained in VIDA for Volunteer sites, consolidation points and other key locations in accordance with Agency procedures. Ensures that GPS data is kept up-to-date based on changes in Volunteer placement. Trains staff on the use of GPS equipment (if applicable) to ensure that any staff involved in site identification and Volunteer visits can capture GPS data.

e. Compiles documentation on disaster-prone areas and ensures that programming staff are aware of that information as part of the site identification process and the approval process of Volunteer housing.

f. Works with appropriate staff in mapping Volunteer sites and consolidation points.

4. Manages Incident Reporting and Response:

a. FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS - as part of the designated  staff at post, manages the security and non- medical follow-up  for Volunteer  incidents  of sexual assault, including  but not limited  to:

i. Assuring that the Volunteer or other Volunteers are safe from imminent or serious threat and taking immediate action to remove victim or others if a serious or imminent  threat exists.

ii. Communicating with the Assigned Security Specialist for guidance when required and according to the notification protocol.

iii. Protecting the confidentiality of information surrounding the sexual assault.

iv. Coordinates with the Office of General Counsel on the hiring of an attorney to advise a Volunteer on the legal process (when necessary).

v. Conduct post-incident assessment to identify any ongoing threats or security concerns and mitigation strategies.

vi. Participates in agency Coordinated Incident Response System (CARS) calls when needed.

vii. Makes logistical arrangements for Volunteers (e.g. hotel or travel arrangements.)

viii. Assists in developing a safety plan in collaboration with the Assigned Security Specialist and the Victim Advocate.

b. FOR ALL INCIDENTS - Ensures that reportable incidents are communicated to the CD in accordance with policies and procedures; serves as the point person for completing incident reports in the Security Incident Management System (SIMS) per the SIMS Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

c. Under the technical supervision of the PCSSO, collaborates with the CD and PCMO to develop reporting, response and follow-up procedures for Volunteer incidents; supports delivery of appropriate support services to victims in a timely manner such as:

• Providing immediate, direct, and follow up support to a PCV in the event of an incident or security situation, as directed by the CD;
• Referring PCV to necessary medical and emotional support;
• Assisting  PCV to file a police complaint and attending investigative meetings, court hearings or trials;
• Reevaluating the Volunteer’s site and/or home;
• Providing additional personal safety training  or support; and
• Disseminating relevant information.

 

5. Advises on Safety and Security Policy and Program:

a. Under the technical supervision of the PCSSO, makes recommendations to the Country Director for changes in training and program policy and procedures as they relate to Volunteer safety and security based on changes to the security environment at post.

b. Under the direction of the PCSSO, participates in the Legal Environment Survey and subsequent revisions to accurately advise the CD and PCVs when crime incidents occur.

c. In collaboration with the CD, assists in developing a plan for implementing PCSSO visit recommendations.  This plan will be reviewed by the PCSSO and coordinated with the RSA. Provides regular updates on implementation progress and/or challenges to the CD and the PCSSO.

d. In collaboration with the CD and under the technical supervision of the PCSSO, prioritizes and executes improvements to post’s safety and security systems.

6. Prepares for and Responds to Emergencies:

a. Serves as the main technical advisor to the CD and senior staff at Post during an emergency situation.

b. Coordinates the testing of the EAP with Volunteers and staff at least once per year in accordance with the Agency’s EAP testing guidelines. In collaboration with other staff, prepares a written report of the results of the EAP test and submits it to the PCSSO for review before distribution to other relevant parties.

c. Under the direction of the CD and the technical supervision of the PCSSO, coordinates an annual risk assessment and review of the EAP. Ensures that revisions to the EAP are made as needed.

d. In coordination with the CD/DMO/RSO/PCSSO, ensures that office emergency drills are conducted according to applicable guidelines.

e. Under the technical supervision of the PCSSO, develops criteria for the selection of consolidation points and/or regional transit houses and ensures that the sites chosen comply with the criteria.

Reviews EAP consolidation point information for accuracy

f. Tests security equipment such as satellite phones, radios and other emergency devices periodically. Routinely trains users on the operation of all emergency equipment.

7. Acts as Safety and Security Liaison:

1. Establishes and maintains open communication with both the PCSSO and the RSA, informing them of both problems and progress in the country, such as major incidents, changes in crime data and other information on new policies or programs affecting safety and security.
2. Develops and maintains contact with Embassy security staff and local law enforcement to obtain crime updates and information needed for assessing the security environment of Post, and to foster relationships that can be leveraged during emergency situations or in response to crime incidents.
3. Serves as post's primary safety and security contact/intermediary with other non-governmental organizations, volunteer organizations (e.g., VSO, JICA/JOCV, SNV, UNV, etc.) and other development agencies.

8. Analyzes Crime Trends: Conducts annual crime trends analysis; shares results with staff and Volunteers as appropriate; and coordinates modifications of post’s safety and security program based on findings. Submits annual trends analysis to the Office of Safety and Security (i.e., PCSSO) and Region (i.e., RSA).

9. Shares Information:  

Develops and maintains a legible and orderly system for collecting, compiling, and disseminating pertinent safety and security information to be made accessible to appropriate Post staff and Volunteers as required, including, but not limited  to:

1. Travel warnings and policies (including Post travel/transportation policies);
2. Safety and security  information for visiting PCVs;
3. Notices to staff and Volunteers about security concerns;
4. Alerts to Program Managers and other staff about site-specific security concerns.

10. Develops Resources and Policy:

Develops and organizes safety and security resources such as manuals, handbooks, leaflets, pamphlets, slides, videos, and memos and makes their contents and Peace Corps policies known to staff and Volunteers.

11. Coordinates Duty Officer Program:  

In collaboration with the CD and PCSSO, coordinates post duty officer system. Trains designated duty officers on their roles and responsibilities for responding to and reporting of incidents.

12. Other Duties

May perform other safety and security duties as assigned by the Country Director following consultation with and concurrence of the PCSSO or the Office of Safety and Security.

13. May be designated limited supervisory responsibilities:

Limited supervisory responsibilities as assigned by Country Directors, with the approval of their Regional Directors, will be limited to supervising other PSCs, not Foreign Service Nationals or U.S. Direct Hire (USDH) staff, after successful completion of training requisite to supervisory duties. (See MS 743a and MS 744a.)

14. COVID 19: SOW Update effective October 31, 2021

Given that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic there will be a lengthy period where there are likely to be limited or no Peace Corps Trainees and/or Volunteers (jointly referred to as “Volunteers”) at Peace Corps/Timor Leste, the PSC may be temporarily assigned during the COVID-19 pandemic, as determined by the Peace Corps Director, to carry out additional duties and responsibilities in furtherance of the goals of the Peace Corps in order to enhance the ability of Peace Corps Volunteers to perform functions under the Peace Corps Act, including facilitating a safe environment in order for the successful return of Volunteers. 

This temporary assignment may require the PSC to provide services and/or support beyond what is listed in their current Statement of Work (SOW).  The services and/or support may take many forms, examples of which may include but are not limited to, training, providing administrative, technical, medical, and/or operational assistance, building on host country programs, etc.  This temporary assignment also may require the PSC to provide these services and/or support to individuals/organizations other than those listed in their current SOW such as host country government, partner organization(s), community member(s), staff, and/or contractors.”

Standard Roles and Responsibilities

1. Occasional Money Handler may be required to courier cash and /or purchase orders to various vendors who furnish supplies and/or services to PST/IST training site, or other locations as directed by the Contracting Officer. The PSC may also be required to courier cash to PC trainees or volunteers. The PSC will not be functioning as a procurement or disbursing official but will only be acting as an intermediary between the Contracting or Disbursing Officer and the recipient. In the case of dealing with vendors, the PSC will not exercise any procurement discretion concerning the supplies or services to be purchased or the cost limits of these purchases; these will be determined by the Contracting Officer.

 

2. Every individual with any involvement in the operations of Peace Corps Timor-Leste, whether U.S. Direct Hire, U.S. Personal Services Contractor, Foreign Service National, Foreign Service Personal Services Contractor or Volunteer / Trainee has duties and responsibilities directly and/or indirectly associated with Safety and Security.  These duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Awareness and understanding of all directives of Peace Corps regarding Safety and Security.
• Awareness and understanding of emergency procedures at both home and office.
• Awareness and understanding of duties associated with the Peace Corps Timor-Leste Emergency Action Plan.
• Availability, at both home and office, of staff and Volunteer contact phone numbers and/or email addresses in case the stated individual is directed to establish emergency contact and provide emergency information.
• Maintains current knowledge of the Peace Corps evacuation Plan, the PC Emergency Action Plan and how to use fire extinguisher in order to ensure adequate level of safety and support for Peace Corps/Timor-Leste Volunteers.
• Ensure complete confidentiality regarding all information related to Peace Corps staff, Volunteers and Peace Corps/Timor-Leste operations.
• Any Inherently Governmental Functions (IGFs) such as Supervisor or Receiving Officer

3. Safety and Security Instruction 110 N/A
4. Inherently Governmental Functions

May be designated limited supervisory responsibilities:

Limited supervisory responsibilities as assigned by Country Directors, with the approval of the Regional Directors, Personal Services Contractors (PSCs) may only supervise other PSCs. (See MS 743a and MS 744a).

Logistics & Level of Effort & Duty Station

Performs duties during a 40 hour work week. Events may require occasional work in the evenings and on weekends and holidays. May also be required to travel up country. Duty station is the main office Rua Nuu Laran, Bairro dos Grilhos, Dili.  May be required to work in another districts during 10 weeks of PST training in October.

 

APPLICANT INFORMATION:

Salary

Starting at $26,269.00 annually plus benefits (depends on salary history, experience, and qualifications)

 

Security Clearance

Candidate must be able to obtain a security clearance which requires a National ID Card and recent/valid Ministry of Justice Requerimento de Certificado de Registo Criminal. Candidates without these documents may apply, but they should start working on obtaining these documents immediately. Candidates will also require a valid passport and must not have any restrictions on travel to the United States from previous experience.

 

Important!  Applicants must clearly describe or demonstrate how they meet each of the above qualifications in a Cover Letter written in English to be considered. Resumes/CVs should not exceed 4 pages. Please do NOT send additional attachments, such as certificates, at this time. Qualified and interested candidates should send their Cover Letter and Resume/CV by e-mail to easttimorpc@peacecorps.gov. The Cover Letter and Resume/CV should be sent as attachments with the applicant’s name in the file names.

 

Applicants should use the following subject line for the email: Position_LastName,Firstname (Ex: SSM_Soares,Pedro). Applications without the correct subject line may be disqualified.

Contract is contingent on availability of funds, reference checks, background check, medical examination, submission of proof of required vaccinations or other medical information. Only those shortlisted are invited to an interview will be contacted. Peace Corps reserves the right to not evaluate or to withhold an offer of a personal services contract to an individual that has a history of poor past performance or conduct as a Peace Corps Trainee, Volunteer, or staff member (USDH, PSC, or FSN). Peace Corps reserves the right to withhold an offer of a personal services contract to an individual that is a relative or household member of a current Peace Corps staff member. Individuals who have current or prior connections with intelligence activities or agencies through employment, related work, or even family relations may be ineligible for a personal services contract. Individual will be required to follow any workplace health and/or safety rules indicated for their position – including complying with any medical and/or training requirements specified for their position in accordance with public health and/or occupational health or safety policies.

The Peace Corps is an equal opportunity employer.  Peace Corps will not discriminate against an applicant because of that person's race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older, except when the applicant is beyond the mandatory retirement age in the country of assignment), disability, or genetic information. 

 

Closing date: position remains open until filled—applicants should apply before September 3^rd,2023 for priority consideration. No phone calls or personal visits related to this vacancy will be accepted. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.