EOD/IEDD Technical Advisor (TA) – DCA Syria Programme At DanChurchAid

EOD/IEDD Technical Advisor (TA) – DCA Syria Programme

DanChurchAid (DCA) invites applications for an experienced EOD/IEDD 3+ (Advanced) Technical Advisor (TA) 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 explosive ordnance risk education (EORE), survey, clearance of explosive hazards, cash transfers, vocational training, shelter rehabilitation, NFI distribution, psychosocial support and stabilisation.

The main responsibility of the EOD/IEDD Technical Advisor is to conduct explosive hazard clearance activities; train, manage, mentor and capacity build national staff in the areas of Explosive Hazard Search, assist in the training and mentorship of Community Liaison (CL) teams specifically in the area of Non-technical Survey (NTS) in Syria. You will work in a potentially hostile and arduous environment, where there is a need to demonstrate a calm, positive and self-motivated attitude. Conditions such as these require a level head, attention to detail, and an understanding of the humanitarian INGO context. The EOD/IEDD Technical Advisor for the DCA Syria Programme will report directly to the HMA Operations Manager (OM).

The main duties relating to this position are as follows:

Main responsibilities:

• Perform Explosive Hazard (EH) clearance in hazardous areas in accordance with DCA SOPs.
• Supervise DCA teams while they conduct systematic, EH Search, Non-Technical / Technical Survey, and BAC as applicable to the directed task.
• Conduct explosive hazard clearance activities as required, including render safe and disposal procedures of all found explosive hazards in accordance with IMAS and DCA SOPs.
• Prepare Task Implementation Plans (TIP) for clearance tasks, including threat assessment conducted with input from the CL teams, and other relevant HMA staff.
• Train, mentor, and capacity build national staff in all areas related to search, clearance, Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD), NTS/ TS, and BAC.
• Supervise, manage, and mentor search/clearance teams.
• Train, mentor and supervise local national IEDD Operator Assistants.
• Work closely and in coordination with DCA and local partner NTS & EORE teams.
• Operate in accordance with DCA SOPs; assist the OM in SOP revisions and with the development, implementation and adaptation on new SOPs and new technologies.
• 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 programme survey, training and clearance activities and provide feedback and constructive recommendation to teams, other SAs and TAs, and OM.
• Conduct training and mentorship of CL teams in suspected hazard areas in accordance with DCA SOPs and training plans.
• Conduct analysis of IED threat and trend tracking as required.
• Prepare and submit all relevant reports, data, and documentation in a timely manner, using relevant forms, including IMSMA forms, as and when appropriate.
• Work closely and in coordination with the GIS Coordinator and HMA Medical Trainer and coordinator.
• Stay informed and current on new techniques, manuals and devices relating to Humanitarian Mine Action.
• If appointed by the OM, take part in an accident/incident board of inquiry.

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 Syria as required by the OM.
• Closely coordinate with the NES Mine Action Office and other mine action actors to ensure DCA Clearance activities and interventions are coordinated and timely as required by the OM.
• 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 programme.
• Being a role model for diversity and inclusion, as well as a positive role model for contributing to the team spirit.
• Actively support in the mainstreaming of gender in all mine action activities.

The successful candidate possesses the following qualifications and experience:

• International Mine Action Standard (IMAS) EOD Level 3 or equivalent & IEDD 3+ (Advanced) qualification from a military or accredited international training establishment.
• Demonstrates sound knowledge and understanding of C-IED Search methodologies, both urban and rural contexts.
• Minimum of 2 years’ operational IEDD 3+ (Advanced) operator experience within the last 5 years in a similar environment, and this must be demonstrated in the experience section of the CV.
• Instructor / mentor qualifications a plus; experience training and mentoring national staff in EOD, IEDD and Search techniques, including preparation and execution of structured training courses to IMAS standards.
• 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 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 (extended subject to performance and funding).
• 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.

Closing date: Friday 14 Oct 2022. Interviews are expected to be held on a rolling basis, as suitable candidates are identified. DCA reserves the right to select a candidate prior to the closing date.

All qualified candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, religion, 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.

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 Staff Policy on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment, Child Safeguarding and Counter Terrorism policies.