Radio Operator at Medecins Sans Frontieres

Main Purpose

• Operating the VHF and HF radios, in accordance with the MSF security protocols and rules, in order to ensure quality and confidential radio communications for the operational needs of the mission/projects.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Operating the VHF and HF radios, in accordance with the MSF security protocols and rules, to en-sure quality and confidential radio communications for the operational needs of the mission/projects.
• Operating the HF and VHF radios, avoiding using any sensitive or security related information and following the MSF security rules. Ensures radio frequencies' (HF and VHF) quality and transmission capacity.
• Installs and programs frequencies in all type of radios when necessary.
• Ensuring that messages are well copied/passed to all people concerned and records the messages on the radio logbook. Responding to radio contacts from other approved organizations and forwarding it on the information via this channel.
• Making radio contacts with reference bases (capital and/or field) according to communication rules / schedules and forwards all information concerning the security of the teams to the Project/Capital Coordinator.
• Monitoring and registering any movement, of people, vehicles, helicopters, airplanes, and cargo, (departure, arrival, number of passengers, route taken, standard contact points) and informs line manager of any delays.
• Supervising and monitoring the VHF radio allocation book (handsets) and registering the loan of handsets to all staff, following it up on a regular basis.
• Installing, operating, and performing preventive maintenance checks on assigned equipment, checking that the equipment is working properly and immediately informing the line manager of any damage/loss/theft.
• Maintaining the equipment, communications room, and premises in clean and tidy conditions.
• Maintaining and supervising HF VHF batteries status in good maintenance conditions.
• Providing basic radio training when necessary to MSF staff

MSF Section/Context Specific Accountabilities

• Ensure the use of radio codes when communicating any sensitive information to drivers and staff members.
• Use the official communication codification system as the standard method for transmitting confidential messages.
• Monitor all vehicle movements using the organization’s tracking system and during “kiss movements.”
• Serve as a key source of information for the Security Focal Point or Line Manager in the event of any incident.
• Ensure regular follow-up and accurate inventory of all radio equipment, updating the list of tools periodically.
• Always provide the Line Manager with regular updates on the whereabouts of all MSF vehicles.
• Ensure there is no communication gap between drivers, vehicles, and other staff members.
• Conduct a radio communication check at the start of duty to confirm clear frequency with all drivers and vehicles.
• Report any signal interruptions or low frequency levels to the Supervisor and prepare for necessary maintenance.
• Track and follow up all MSF vehicle movements by phone and/or radio within Abuja and during airport movements.
• Restrict all movements during curfew hours and during public protests.
• Ensure that all movements to “red zones” are communicated to and validated by the Logistics Manager or Head of Mission.
• Coordinate closely with the HR team for airport and other official movements to prevent communication gaps.
• Give priority to medical needs, especially for patient referrals.
• Ensure compliance with the weekly movement schedule and support the rationalization of all movements.

Minimum Required Skills and Qualifications
Education

• A degree or HND is required, preferably in Computer science.
• Basic Knowledge of Computer Operations (MS Word / MS Excel) essential.

Experience:

• Desirable work experience as radio operator in related jobs
• Practical knowledge of VHF, HF, and iridium PTT radio systems and coded communication procedures.
• Basic computer skills (Word, Excel, e-mail) and ability to use GPS tracking tools.
• Awareness of security procedures and information confidentiality.
• Previous experience in a humanitarian radio operator, or security environment is a strong asset.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experienced problem solver with active listening skills
• Desirable work experience as radio operator in related jobs with MSF or other INGOs.