Investigation Specialist

Description Investigation SpecialistOrganizational Setting and Work RelationshipsThe ultimate aim of the IGO is to support the effective, efficient and accountable management of UNHCR operations and to play a positive role in upholding an environment of integrity in UNHCR by contributing to the maintenance of the highest standards of personal and professional conduct by UNHCR personnel, and all entities with contractual links to UNHCR.The Investigation Service, working under the authority of the Inspector General, has responsibility for carrying out investigations into possible misconduct within UNHCR in a timely and appropriate manner and that findings are transmitted to the Inspector General.The Investigation Specialist reports to the Head of Unit (Investigation) works independently or as part of a team on investigation cases assigned to him or her by the Head of Unit.
The Investigation Specialist has contact with staff within UNHCR, as well as with staff from other organisations, governments, NGOs and UNHCR beneficiaries.An important aspect of the position is to expand the IGO's investigation capacity, efficiency and strategic reach.
The post will serve to enhance the IGO's focus and response to investigations, notably in the Region.All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description.
They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks.
In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.Duties- Reports received by the IGO on possible misconduct are efficiently and properly assessed to identify the appropriate investigative approach to establish the facts relevant to the case.- Design and monitor quality standards and procedures for all steps in the investigation process.- Act as a focal point for specific areas of expertise or typology of investigation as may be required and/or delegated by the Head of Service.- Conduct investigations into allegations of misconduct as assigned, in a timely and effective manner and in accordance with the Investigation Guidelines and UN/UNHCR policies, undertaking field missions when required.
This may involve gathering evidence from available sources, including electronic and e-mail records, interviewing witnesses as well as interaction at all levels with external actors (other UN agencies/embassies/missions/implementing partners etc.)
as well as UNHCR personnel.- Conduct investigation interviews (complainants, witnesses, subject matter experts and subjects) in accordance with Investigation Guidelines, UN Administrative Instructions and the framework of Administration of Justice within the UN.- Gather and analyse physical evidence, including forensic evidence, to establish facts.- Prepare reports based on the available evidence and the investigation findings, such as: Investigation Reports in cases of misconduct; Closure Reports where no misconduct has been established; and Management Implication Reports on systemic issues (e.g.
procedural or management issues) identified during the investigation.- Liaise with different units within UNHCR; e.g.
DHR, Ethics Office, DIST etc.
in relation to the investigation function- Provide advice and guidance to staff members on how to report misconduct and, as may be required, how to assist in conducting preliminary assessments / investigations.- Undertake training activities on investigations for UNHCR and partner agency staff and develop and deliver training as may be required.- Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility.
Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work.
Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).- Perform any other tasks in the interest of UNHCR as requested by the Head of Unit, (Investigation), Head of Investigation Service or the Inspector General.Minimum QualificationsYears of Experience / Degree LevelFor P3 - 6 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 5 years relevant experience with Graduate degree; or 4 years relevant experience with Doctorate degreeField(s) of EducationCriminal Justice; Criminology; Law, Public Administration;Military, Police Studies, Law Enforcementor other relevant field.Certificates and/or LicensesCertified Fraud Examiner;(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)Relevant Job ExperienceEssentialMinimum 6 years of experience in the field of investigations and application of law.
Of these 6 years, at least 5 years in an international environment preferably within the UN Common System or other international organizations.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing, including the preparation of clear and concise reports.
Working knowledge of UN administrative disciplinary rules and regulations.
Honesty and integrity in the highest degree.
Resourcefulness, initiative, maturity and judgment.DesirableFamiliarity with UN justice system and knowledge of the law of the international civil service as related to investigations, and staff misconduct.
Field experience in developing countries with direct responsibility for performing investigations into misconduct such as sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), sexual harassment, fraud, corruption.
Experience in digital forensic investigations and evidence handling.
Experience in the design, organisation and delivering of internal and external training related administrative investigations.Functional SkillsTR-Training - Virtual and face to faceSC-UN/UNHCR Procurement Rules and ProceduresLE-Digital forensic tools, methodologies, protocols and techniquesLE-Forensic Audit and/or Fraud ExaminationRC-Enterprise content and records management systems(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)Language RequirementsFor International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties.
This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination, and abuse of power.As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.Desired Candidate Profile The applicant needs to be experienced assessing complaints of misconduct and in conducting administrative investigations in an international context.
It is essential that the incumbent has sufficient training and experience in applying relevant digital forensics tools and while there is no need for the incumbent to be a forensic expert, a broad understanding of the role and application of digital forensic methods in the context of investigative work is essential.
Similarly, the incumbent should have a clear understanding of witness protection challenges and their possible solutions, as well as the victim centred approach.Required languages (expected Overall ability is at least B2 level): ,,Desired languages,,Operational contextOccupational Safety and Health Considerations:To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit this link:Nature of Position:An important aspect of the position is to ensure the IGO's investigation capacity and efficiency in the Southern African Region.
The post will serve to enhance the IGO's focus and response to financial fraud and sexual misconduct allegations, including against implementing partner staff.Investigations into other types of allegations and in other regions may also be assigned to the incumbent of the post, as determined by the Head of Investigation Service.Living and Working Conditions:Whilst Pretoria is a category A duty station, it is recommended that staff take into consideration security recommendations as outlined by FSS and UNDSS, especially related to housing and have good general awareness.
There are a variety of private schools available for staff members with families.Additional QualificationsBachelor of Arts (BA): Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Criminology, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Law, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Law Enforcement, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Military, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Police Studies, Bachelor of Arts (BA): Public AdministrationCertified Fraud Examiner - OtherWorkforce to SuperviseCompetenciesAccountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Judgement & decision making, Managing resource, Organizational awareness, Planning & organizing, Political awareness, Teamwork & collaborationUNHCR Salary CalculatorCompendium Add.
3 to the March 2024 Compendium - Part BAdditional InformationFunctional clearanceThis position doesn't require a functional clearance