DanChurchAid (DCA) invites applications for a High Threat Search Advisor (SA) for its Syria programme. This is a non-family position based in North East Syria (NES), with entry point through and frequent travel to Iraq.
The DCA Syria programme is a growing programme with a 8 year footprint in NES. The activities are wide-ranging and include risk education, survey, clearance of explosive hazards, cash transfers, vocational training, shelter rehabilitation, NFI distribution, psychosocial support and early recovery.
As the High Threat Search Advisor (HTSA) your main responsibility is to manage, supervise and mentor Explosive Hazard (EH) clearance teams, train and capacity build national staff in the areas of High Threat Search, assist in the training and mentorship of Community Liaison teams specifically in Non-technical Survey (NTS).
The main duties relating to this position are as follows:
Main responsibilities:
- Perform systematic search in suspected/confirmed hazard areas in accordance with DCA SOPs.
- Supervise DCA search teams during search, Technical Survey & BAC as applicable to the directed task.
- Prepare Task Implementation Plans for clearance tasks, including threat assessment conducted with input from the IEDD Technical Advisor, CL teams, and other relevant HMA staff.
- Train and capacity build national staff in accordance with international standards and SOPs.
- Train and mentor Community Liaison teams in the area of NTS and community data collection.
- Work closely with DCA CL teams performing Risk Education, community survey, and NTS activities.
- Operate in accordance with DCA SOPs and assist the OM with periodic SOP reviews as required.
- Provide technical oversight of field operations of the component for which you are responsible, including training, safety and security, daily operational planning and implementation, and the direction and discipline of locally employed operational and administrative personnel.
- Conduct QA/QC of all training, survey and clearance activities of which you are responsible, and provide feedback and constructive recommendation to teams, TAs, and OM.
- Prepare all relevant reports and documentation in a timely manner, using relevant forms, including IMSMA forms, as and when appropriate.
- Work closely and in coordination with the GIS Team and the Medical Coordinator.
- Represent DCA in relevant coordination and stakeholder meetings.
- Provide timely and detailed data for internal reports and returns and stakeholder communications.
- Stay informed and current on new techniques, manuals and devices relating to Humanitarian Mine Action.
Additional responsibilities:
- Provide operational input to proposals and reports, and ensure all technical reporting is conducted in a timely manner and to a high standard.
- Represent DCA positively and professionally in relevant coordination bodies in NES.
- Closely coordinate with the NES Mine Action Office (MAO) and other mine action actors to ensure DCA Clearance activities and interventions are coordinated and timely.
- Contribute to culture of excellence, continuous improvement, and performance optimisation across all projects.
- Work in accordance with DCA’s SOPs, values and humanitarian principles.
- Maintain effective working relationship with other members of the programme.
- Be a role model for diversity and inclusion, as well as a positive role model for contributing to the team spirit.
Applicants must possess the following qualifications and experience:
- Advanced Search Advisor (SA) with Military Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) qualifications or International Mine Action Standard (IMAS) EOD Level 3 equivalent.
- Knowledge and experience of EOD and ERW clearance methodologies.
- Knowledge and experience of search methodologies and ground sign awareness in IED contaminated areas in both urban and rural contexts.
- Instructor or mentor qualifications a plus, experience training and mentoring national staff in EOD and Search techniques, including preparation and execution of structured training courses to IMAS standards.
- Previous experience in Humanitarian Mine Action organisations as an International Search Advisor is desirable, including knowledge of IMSMA forms.
- Strong leadership, team building and communication skills.
- Understanding of the humanitarian principles linked to NGO field and operations contexts.
- Experience working in remote and insecure field locations.
- Computer literacy essential including proficiency in Word, Power Point and Excel.
- Fluency in written and spoken English is essential. Knowledge of Arabic would be advantageous.
We offer
- 12-month contract (subject to available funding).
- A competitive salary-package.
- 30 days of paid annual leave (pro-rata).
- A generous R&R allowance.
- Insurance as per industry standards.
- An interesting and challenging experience addressing humanitarian needs.
Only online applications consisting as a minimum of a CV and a cover letter will be considered and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Closing date: Ongoing recruitment process. Interviews are expected to be held on a rolling basis, as suitable candidates are identified.
All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, abilities or ethnic affiliation are encouraged to apply for the vacancy. DCA conducts an anti-terror check as part of the recruitment process. It is a prerequisite that you can pass this check and maintain this status throughout your employment with us. Everyone applying for a job with DCA must be ready to comply with our Code of Conduct, Staff Policy on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment and our Child Safeguarding Policy.
How to apply
Please apply via our website at: High Threat Search Advisor – DCA Syria Programme I DanchurchAid (emply.com)