INVESTIGATOR (2 positions) (Temporary Job Opening)

Org. Setting and Reporting

The Independent Institution on Missing Persons in the Syrian Arab Republic (IIMP) was established by the General Assembly in its resolution 77/301, adopted on 29 June 2023. The incumbent reports to the Human Rights Officer (Investigation Coordinator) or his/her designee.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the Investigator may be responsible for the following duties:

• Plans, organizes conducts and manages investigations of cases, including through interviews with victims and witnesses, involving serious breaches of international laws related to the Independent Institution's mandate;
• Conducts interviews and obtains statements; analyzes information;
• Ensures that all measures are taken for the protection of victims and witnesses who will cooperate with the Independent Institution, according to the agreed methodology and respect for the "do no harm" principle;
• Searches for, gathers, records and preserves all potential or relevant information, including in electronic format, ensuring that all necessary information chains are established and maintained;
• Participates in briefing and planning conferences with investigation staff;
• Directs and conducts incident response activities. Undertakes or oversees pre-response preparation, reception and recording of incident information, informing appropriate persons/offices during and after response, planning for response, and deployment to and control of the incident scene; preservation of evidence and hand-over of the scene to authoritative persons;
• Implements and maintains established procedures to ensure professional competency and completeness throughout the investigation process;
• Develops or contributes to the development of processes to meet the investigation needs;
• Ensures that the information and documentation related to the investigation is protected, stored and preserved safely in accordance with procedures established by the Independent Institution;
• Prepares complete and concise investigation reports and conducts post investigation tasks
• Works collaboratively and in coordination with colleagues to achieve organizational goals in accordance with standard operating procedures and in compliance with organizational regulations and rules.
• Collects and analyzes data to identify trends or patterns and provide insights through graphs, charts, tables and reports using data visualization methods to enable data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting.
• Performs other duties as required.

Competencies

• Professionalism: Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to investigations, including those relating to missing persons. Good research, analytical and problem-solving skills. Knowledge of various research methodologies and sources, including electronic sources on the Internet, intranet and other databases. Proficiency in software applications used in investigations. Ability to identify and analyze problems/issues and participate in their resolution. Proven ability to gather evidence and interview subjects and witnesses. Ability to apply good judgment in the context of assignments given. Ability to plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Ability to gather and analyze electronic evidence. Ability to draft/edit, a variety of written reports especially with respect to the preparation of complex reports of investigation. Comprehensive knowledge of UN policies, procedures and operations including good knowledge of the conditions prevailing in areas where the United Nations conducts peacekeeping missions. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Able to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management.
• Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
• Planning & Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in international law, criminal investigation or related field. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in investigatory work is required.
• Experience carrying out investigations of violations of international human rights law or international humanitarian law is required.
• Experience in gathering information and conducting interviews related to missing persons cases is required.
• Experience in analyzing information using specialized e-discovery software platforms is desirable.
• Investigation experience in or on the Middle East is desirable.

Languages

English and Arabic are required.

Assessment

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.