Apply Today! International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Security and Safety Officer (2026)
Apply Today! International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Security and Safety Officer (2026)
Strengthening Humanitarian Security in Complex Environments
In today’s rapidly evolving humanitarian landscape, armed conflict, political instability, and climate-related shocks increasingly intersect to create complex and volatile operating environments. Ensuring the safety and security of humanitarian personnel and operations has never been more critical. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), a globally respected and neutral humanitarian organization, is seeking a highly experienced Security and Safety Officer 3 (SSO3) / Operations Room Manager to support its mission of protecting and assisting people affected by conflict and violence.
This role represents a pivotal position within the ICRC’s security management architecture, providing leadership, analysis, and operational coordination to ensure safe, effective, and principled humanitarian access.
About the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
The ICRC is an independent, neutral, and impartial humanitarian organization mandated by the Geneva Conventions of 1949 to protect the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence. Operating worldwide, the ICRC provides life‑saving assistance, promotes respect for international humanitarian law (IHL), and coordinates closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Federation.
With operations in some of the world’s most challenging environments, the ICRC relies on strong security management systems that enable staff to operate safely while maintaining humanitarian principles of neutrality, independence, and impartiality.
Role Purpose and Strategic Importance
The Security and Safety Officer 3 / Operations Room Manager plays a central role in supporting the Field Security Coordination Manager (FSCM) in managing day‑to‑day security and safety matters across the delegation’s area of responsibility.
The position ensures:
- Effective functioning of the Operations Room as the nerve centre for security coordination
- Continuous monitoring of staff movements and field operations
- Timely analysis and reporting of security developments
- Compliance with ICRC security policies, procedures, and field travel protocols
The role contributes directly to operational continuity, staff duty of care, and the organization’s ability to deliver humanitarian assistance safely and effectively.
Key Relationships and Reporting Lines
Internal Relationships
- Works closely with the Field Security Coordination Manager (FSCM)
- Collaborates with delegation management, field offices, and support departments
- Directly manages Operations Room staff and radio operators
- Coordinates with Logistics, Fleet, ICT, Welcome, and Premises teams
External Relationships
- Engages with Movement partners (Red Cross and Red Crescent entities)
- Maintains professional security‑related networks relevant to humanitarian operations
Core Responsibilities and Accountabilities
1. Operations Room Management
The Operations Room is a critical hub for real‑time security coordination. The SSO3 ensures its smooth and reliable functioning at all times.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing Operations Room staff, including scheduling, performance management, and coaching
- Overseeing radio rooms and ensuring nationwide coordination across sub‑delegations and field locations
- Monitoring staff movements and ensuring compliance with field travel and security protocols
- Managing communication equipment including radios, satellite phones, and issuing support letters
- Conducting regular equipment testing and functionality checks
- Coordinating with ICT to ensure all communication systems in vehicles and offices are fully operational
- Ensuring vehicles are equipped with appropriate communication tools in line with field movement standards
- Supporting staff onboarding through radio and satellite phone training
- Coordinating staff arrivals, departures, and movements with Welcome and administrative teams
- Developing and maintaining monitoring tools for incidents, movements, and passive security measures
- Ensuring timely and accurate reporting of incidents and near‑misses in the Security Management Information Platform (SMIP)
2. Security Monitoring and Risk Analysis
Operating in a dynamic context requires continuous analysis and situational awareness.
The SSO3:
- Conducts ongoing analysis of the security environment within the area of responsibility
- Monitors evolving political, social, and conflict dynamics that may impact staff safety
- Produces regular security updates and consolidated reports for senior security management
- Advises on adjustments to movement planning and operational posture based on contextual changes
- Supports informed decision‑making through timely, accurate, and actionable security information
3. Security Management and Advisory Support
In close coordination with other security colleagues, the SSO3 contributes to strengthening the overall security management system.
Responsibilities include:
- Providing guidance on the SAFE platform and security tools
- Conducting premises security assessments and ensuring compliance with ICRC passive security standards
- Supporting contingency planning, evacuation planning, and emergency preparedness
- Participating in delegation security meetings when required
- Coordinating with Movement partners on security‑related matters as advised
- Ensuring staff are trained and informed on emergency procedures including medical evacuation, demonstrations, fires, and natural disasters
- Remaining available on a 24/7 basis to respond to critical incidents and emergencies
Required Qualifications and Certifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as security management, international relations, risk management, or a related discipline
- Formal training or certification in security and safety management is strongly preferred
Professional Experience
- 6–9 years of relevant professional experience
- Proven background in managing security and safety in humanitarian, international, or corporate settings
- Experience in crisis management is a strong asset
- Previous military or police service may be considered
Skills and Competencies
- Strong analytical and risk assessment skills
- Excellent communication and coordination abilities
- High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism
- Ability to work under pressure and respond effectively to emergencies
- Strong organizational and reporting skills
- Proficiency in standard computer applications
- Fluency in English and Amharic; additional local languages are an advantage
Values and Organizational Culture
The ICRC places people at the centre of its work. All staff are expected to demonstrate behaviors aligned with the organization’s core values:
- Impact – Focused on achieving meaningful humanitarian outcomes
- Collaboration – Working effectively across teams and partners
- Respect – Valuing diversity, dignity, and cultural sensitivity
- Compassion – Acting with humanity and empathy in all situations
The organization is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds.
Contractual Information
- Contract Type: Fixed‑term national appointment
- Working Rate: Full‑time
- Contract Duration: One year, renewable based on performance and budget availability
- Job Level: B3
- Hardship Classification: H1
- Application Deadline: January 2026
Why This Role Matters
Humanitarian access depends on trust, acceptance, and strong security systems. The Security and Safety Officer 3 ensures that ICRC teams can operate safely while maintaining neutrality and independence. This role is ideal for experienced security professionals who are motivated by purpose, responsibility, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in high‑risk environments.
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Equal Opportunity Statement
The ICRC is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering an inclusive workplace. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of gender, disability, ethnic origin, religion, or sexual orientation.
Build Safety. Enable Humanitarian Action. Strengthen Impact.
This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the world’s most respected humanitarian organizations, ensuring that life‑saving work can continue safely in some of the most complex contexts globally.
