The Embassy of Switzerland in Addis Ababa is inviting applications for a Security Officer position. This is a prestigious opportunity for qualified professionals to work with an esteemed international diplomatic mission, ensuring the safety and security of the Embassy and its personnel. The Swiss Embassy represents Switzerland’s interests in Ethiopia, Djibouti, South Sudan, and the African Union while also running cooperation programs in different parts of Ethiopia, including the Somali and Southern Oromo regions.
The Security Officer will play a critical role in managing security protocols related to the Embassy’s premises, staff movements, and broader security assessments across Ethiopia. The selected candidate will also coordinate with Switzerland’s Regional Security Advisor based in Nairobi, exchanging intelligence and implementing best practices to ensure the security of diplomatic staff and assets. Given the importance of the position, the candidate must demonstrate a high level of professionalism, discretion, and reliability to be entrusted with such responsibilities.
Switzerland is renowned for its commitment to safety, efficiency, and diplomatic excellence. This role provides an opportunity to work within a multicultural team, contributing to risk management strategies and security policies that safeguard Swiss diplomatic operations. The Embassy seeks a highly organized, proactive, and experienced professional to take charge of all security-related matters while upholding the highest international standards.
Security Officer – Embassy of Switzerland in Addis Ababa
The Security Officer will be responsible for overseeing all security-related affairs at the Swiss Embassy in Ethiopia. This includes managing security protocols for the Embassy compound, assessing potential risks, and implementing preventive measures to ensure the safety of Embassy personnel and visitors. The position requires frequent coordination with local authorities, private security firms, and diplomatic security professionals.
A crucial aspect of the role is travel security management. The Security Officer will be responsible for ensuring safe travel arrangements for Embassy staff, particularly in regions where the Embassy runs cooperation programs. Conducting regular security assessments, maintaining emergency preparedness, and providing real-time risk analysis will be among the core responsibilities. The selected candidate must be capable of working independently, while also collaborating with multi-cultural teams to ensure security compliance.
The job demands strong leadership and decision-making skills, as the Security Officer will need to act swiftly in response to security threats. The ability to analyze security risks and communicate recommendations effectively to senior officials is critical. The role also requires a hands-on approach to security infrastructure, meaning the Security Officer must be willing to conduct physical inspections, supervise maintenance of security systems, and oversee the deployment of security personnel when needed.
Requirements and Professional Experience
The ideal candidate should have at least a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent, coupled with a minimum of five years of professional experience in a security leadership role. Preferably, this experience should be within an embassy or an international organization, demonstrating a background in risk management, security coordination, and emergency response planning.
Fluency in English and Amharic is a mandatory requirement. Candidates who also have knowledge of French or German will have an added advantage, as these languages are commonly used within the Swiss diplomatic framework. The position requires excellent written and oral communication skills, as the Security Officer must regularly draft reports, security briefings, and recommendations for the Embassy’s senior leadership.
Technical proficiency is essential, as the role involves computer-based security reporting and documentation. Candidates should have experience using security software, monitoring tools, and communication systems to coordinate safety measures efficiently. A high degree of loyalty, reliability, and discretion is required, as the Security Officer will handle confidential information related to Swiss diplomatic security operations.
Given the nature of the job, the candidate must be willing to travel regularly across Ethiopia for field visits and security assessments. This includes remote and high-risk locations where the Swiss Embassy conducts development programs. Adaptability, resilience, and crisis management skills are essential for handling security challenges in diverse environments.
Employment and Application Details
This position is based at the Embassy of Switzerland in Addis Ababa (Old Airport area) and offers a unique chance to work in a dynamic, high-level diplomatic setting. Applicants must already possess a valid employment permit for Ethiopia, as the Embassy will not process work permits for this position.
Interested candidates must submit their applications in a professional and well-structured format. The Embassy requires a motivation letter (maximum one page) and a curriculum vitae (maximum two pages), along with contact details of two reference persons (preferably from previous employers) and copies of relevant university degrees or diplomas. If available, applicants should also attach work certificates that validate their past experience in security-related roles.
All applications must be submitted via email to [email protected] no later than February 20, 2025. The subject line of the email must strictly follow this format:
“Application for Security Officer Position, Embassy of Switzerland in Addis Ababa”
The motivation letter should be addressed to the Head of Political Affairs, Embassy of Switzerland in Ethiopia. Only applications that meet 100% of the outlined criteria will be considered for the recruitment process.
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after February 20, 2025, for interviews and written tests at the Embassy of Switzerland in Addis Ababa. The Embassy emphasizes a thorough and transparent recruitment process, ensuring that only the most qualified candidate is selected for this critical role.
Candidates who are not shortlisted will not receive further communication regarding their application status. Due to the high volume of applications, the Embassy appreciates the understanding of applicants regarding this policy.
Why Work for the Swiss Embassy?
Switzerland is recognized globally for its neutrality, strong diplomatic presence, and commitment to international security. Working for the Swiss Embassy offers a unique career opportunity within a structured, highly professional environment. This role not only provides valuable international experience but also allows the selected candidate to contribute to security operations at one of the most respected diplomatic missions in Ethiopia.
For professionals looking to enhance their expertise in diplomatic security, risk management, and crisis response, this position presents a challenging yet rewarding career path. The Swiss Embassy values teamwork, strategic thinking, and proactive leadership, making it an ideal workplace for individuals passionate about security management.
If you meet the qualifications and seek a prestigious and impactful career opportunity, submit your application before February 20, 2025, and take the next step toward working with the Embassy of Switzerland in Addis Ababa.