Trust-based relationships with civil society organizations, human rights activists, and independent media
Minimum of 3 years in information security and digital security principles
Bachelor's degree in Information or Computing sciences preferred
Fluent in English and Spanish
Strong understanding of internet technologies (DNS, SSL, IP)
Experience in training and mentoring others
Proficient in both commercial and open-source digital security tools
Responsibilities
Provide assessment, guidance, training, and support on information security to local partners
Travel up to 50% to assist partners in approved countries
Develop a country strategy and action plan with the Deputy Chief of Party
Ensure partners adopt and propagate effective information security practices
Disseminate knowledge on information security and new technologies
Train local counterparts in information security
Stay current on emerging trends and technologies in information security
Benefits
Opportunities for professional development through training and conferences
Dynamic work environment focused on significant social impact
Potential for international travel
Strong support from a collaborative team
Engagement with influential stakeholders in civil society and human rights sectors
Full Job Description
Summary:
Counterpart International is seeking a full-time Information Security Specialist for an "Internet Freedom" project focused on supporting civil society organizations, human rights activists, and independent media in Ecuador. The Information Security Specialist will provide dedicated support and mentoring to organizations and activists to help them address their information security needs. Applicants should have preexisting relationships or experience with trusted parties working for such organizations such that he/she could provide immediate assistance to those in need. Applicants should have a strong technical background in information technology and a firm understanding of internet security issues, including familiarity with methods of encryption for data during storage and transmission, circumvention of censorship, patch management, business continuity principles, social media security/privacy, mobile device security, and secure web hosting.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Based in Quito, Ecuador, the Information Security Specialist will provide assessment, guidance, training, mentoring, and support on information security issues and topics to local partners.
Travel up to 50% of time to support local partners in approved countries.
In partnership with the Deputy Chief of Party, develop a country strategy and action plan based upon the program's global work plan.
Ensure that partners learn, internalize, use, and propagate appropriate information security practices.
Disseminate knowledge on information security and potential uses of new technologies.
Train local counterparts about information security.
Stay-up-to-date on new technologies and emerging trends and issues related to information security.
Participate in conferences, trainings, and other events as needed.
Develop Training of Trainers cadre within CSO community
Translate materials, as necessary, from/to English and Spanish.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Existing, trust-based relationships with a wide array of stakeholders working for civil society organizations, human rights organizations, and independent media.
At least 3 years' experience in information security, digital security principles, and safe computing practices
Minimum of Bachelor's degree required (Information or Computing sciences disciplines preferred)
Fluency in English and Spanish required;
Solid understanding of internet's building blocks (DNS, SSL, IP, etc.)
Strong interpersonal skills as well as experience developing solid professional relationships.
Broad training experience.
Willingness to travel.
Strong writing skills (English) required
Familiar with both commercial and open source digital security tools
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple activities.
