Humanitarian Access & Security Officer

Job Vacancy at Caritas Jerusalem: Humanitarian Access & Security Officer (HASO)

Caritas Jerusalem (CJ) is a humanitarian and development organization that represents the sociopastoral services of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land. It was founded in 1967 in the aftermath of the Six-Day War. Caritas Jerusalem is a member of Caritas Internationals, a confederation of 162 Caritas organizations operating in more than 200 countries. Caritas Jerusalem is committed to ensuring that all individuals we encounter through our work, whether team members, community members, program participants or others, are treated with respect and dignity. We are committed to the core principles regarding prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse laid out by Caritas Internationalis Management Standards (CIMS). We will not tolerate child abuse, sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment by or of our team members. As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive work environment, team members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner, respect local laws and customs, and always adhere to Caritas Jerusalem Code of Conduct Policies and values. Team members are required to sign the Code of Conduct upon hire and be trained in the Safeguarding Policy. For further information, please visit www.caritasjr.org

Position Purpose:

The Humanitarian Access & Security Officer (HASO) is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of all Caritas Jerusalem (CJ) staff, particularly those working in high-risk areas within Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem. This role entails direct communication and liaison with local security coordination mechanisms and authorities, management of secure access and movement, and real-time assessment of risks in these volatile regions. Given the current conflict and uncertain security landscape, this role is essential in maintaining the safety and preparedness of CJ staff through diligent, proactive risk management.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Liaison with Local Authorities

• Establish and maintain strong, professional relationships with local security bodies, law enforcement, and relevant government and non-government organizations.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for local security forces, ensuring open lines of communication in case of emergencies or rapid changes in the security landscape.

• Attend security briefings and meetings with authorities to gather essential information for safe operations in CJ’s operational areas.

2. Staff Access, Movement, and Safety Protocols

• Coordinate staff movements and access to various locations, particularly high-risk areas, ensuring that routes are secure.

• Provide logistical support and recommendations on safe transportation options, secure access points, and evacuation routes, if necessary.

• Regularly review, update, and communicate safety protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to staff, tailored to the evolving security conditions.

3. Risk Assessment and Security Analysis

• Conduct real-time assessments and risk analysis based on data from local authorities, intelligence sources, and CJ’s own observations.

• Prepare risk assessment reports and communicate any significant threats, advising teams on safe locations, areas to avoid, and emergency procedures.

• Identify potential risks to CJ’s operations, providing timely updates to ensure staff make informed decisions about their movements.

4. Crisis and Emergency Response

• Develop and implement crisis response plans to address potential emergencies, including evacuation, relocation, or lockdown scenarios.

• Train staff on emergency response protocols, ensuring they are familiar with communication channels, emergency contacts, and response plans.

• In case of critical incidents, coordinate with local authorities and CJ leadership to manage response efforts and ensure swift communication with affected staff.

5. Incident Reporting and Documentation

• Maintain detailed records of all security incidents, including any significant threats or actions taken to safeguard staff.

• Compile and share regular security updates and reports with CJ management, highlighting key observations, incident trends, and recommendations for ongoing staff protection.

6. Training and Awareness Building

• Conduct security briefings, orientation, and ongoing training for staff on safety protocols and personal security measures.

• Lead sessions to enhance staff awareness of situational risks and practical measures to reduce exposure to danger.

• Promote a culture of security mindfulness, encouraging staff to remain vigilant and report potential security concerns immediately.

جميع الحقوق محفوظة لموقع جوبس.

Job Requirements:

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years in security management, law enforcement, or a related field, preferably with experience in high-risk regions.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities required:

• Knowledge: Strong understanding of local security dynamics in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem; familiarity with risk assessment methodologies.

• Skills: Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills; able to work calmly under pressure; proficiency in Hebrew and English is a must.

• Personal Attributes: High level of integrity, resilience, and commitment to CJ’s mission and values.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates with relevant education and experience can submit their cover letters and CVs through our website. Apply Online/ . Applications received after the closing date will not be eligible. Only short-listed candidates will be invited for interviews and a technical assignment.