High Threat Search Advisor – DCA Syria Programme

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 an 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, 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 the area of Non-technical Survey (NTS).

The main duties relating to this position are as follows:

Main responsibilities:

• Perform EH Clearance in suspected hazard areas in accordance with DCA SOPs by supervising DCA teams that conduct High Threat Search, Technical Survey, and 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.
• Train and mentor Community Liaison teams in the area of NTS.
• Work closely and in coordination with DCA CL teams as they perform Risk Education, community survey, and NTS activities.
• Operate in accordance with DCA SOPs and assist the OM with the preparation of new SOPs, if needed.
• 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 under your control.
• Conduct QA/QC of all program survey, training, and clearance activities of which you are responsible and provide feedback and constructive recommendation to teams, Tas, and OM.
• Conduct analysis of IED threat and trend tracking.
• 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 Technician and the Medical Coordinator.
• Represent DCA in relevant coordination meetings.
• Provide timely and detailed data for the program output tracker.
• Stay informed and current on new techniques, manuals and devices relating to Humanitarian Mine Action.

Additional responsibilities include:

• 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 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 optimization across all projects.
• Work in accordance with DCA values and humanitarian principles.
• Maintain effective working relationship with other members of the program.
• Be a role model for diversity and inclusion, as well as a positive role model for contributing to the team spirit.
• Actively mainstream gender in all mine action activities.

Applicants must have the following qualifications and experience:

• 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, both urban and rural.
• Engineering and construction background is a plus.
• 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 organizations 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.
• Flexibility and cultural awareness and sensitivity.
• Regional experience is desirable.
• 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.

*** If their experience and qualifications are strongly military-based, candidates should be prepared to articulate clearly how these qualities can translate to an HMA environment. ***

We offer:

• 12-month contract.
• A competitive salary- package.
• 30 days of paid annual leave.
• A generous R&R allowance.
• Insurance as per industry standards.
• An interesting and challenging experience addressing humanitarian needs.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, abilities, or ethnic affiliation are encouraged to apply for the vacancy. 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.

Everyone applying for a job with DCA must be ready to comply with our Staff Policy on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment and our Child Safeguarding Policy. 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.