UNDP Is Hiring a Security Operations Centre Assistant in Ankara (2026 Opportunity)

Overview

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Türkiye is recruiting a Security Operations Centre (SOC) Assistant at the NPSA-5 level, a national position based in Ankara. The Ankara Security Operations Centre runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on rotating shifts. It is a shared communications and monitoring hub for UN agencies under the United Nations Security Management System, including UNDP, UNICEF, UNHCR, FAO and WFP.

What the role involves

Reporting to the SOC Associate under the guidance of senior security management (UNDSS), the assistant monitors security communications through the Security Communications System, VHF/HF radio and digital tools. They are a first point of contact for security or safety notifications, escalating incidents to security leadership and host government authorities, and they track UN field missions across Türkiye under Security Risk Management guidelines. Routine radio checks, system testing and radio-protocol training for UN personnel are also part of the job.

The assistant keeps Geographical Information System tools up to date, reports critical events with exact locations, monitors local media to compile daily situation reports, and sends emergency SMS broadcasts to UN staff once approved. Administrative duties include maintaining confidential directories of personnel, dependents and vehicles, updating UN Warden Network lists, and keeping contact lists for emergency services, police, medical teams and private security. The assistant also audits communications equipment and runs staff headcounts during drills or crises.

Requirements

Candidates need a bachelor's degree with at least 2 years of relevant experience, or a secondary school certificate with at least 5 years. Relevant backgrounds include telecommunications, radio operations, information technology, security control rooms and emergency dispatch.

Hands-on familiarity with VHF/UHF/HF radios and security communications hardware is needed, along with proficiency in web-based platforms, MS Excel, databases and GIS mapping. Full oral and written fluency in English and Turkish is mandatory. Experience with international NGOs, UN agencies or international security operations is a strong asset.

Key dates

Applications close on 13 August 2026.