Evidence Custodian, TOS 5 (Roster)

Organization Profile

Around the world, the number of missing persons is rising – as a result of conflict, climate change, organized crime, migration and other causes.  By some metrics, the world is experiencing the highest number of conflicts since 1946.  Conflict and natural disasters, including wildfires, hurricanes and floods, have fueled migration, which in turn has been accompanied by a surge in human trafficking and slavery.

The International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP), a treaty-based intergovernmental organization with Headquarters in The Hague, the Netherlands, is seeking an experienced, dynamic and committed individual to join a highly motivated team working on this global challenge. ICMP’s overall strategy is based on upholding international law and securing the rights of families of the missing to truth, justice and reparations. 

About the Roster

The position of Evidence Custodian is responsible for processing all information and evidence (including biological materials) submitted for the purposes of DNA testing. Under the overall guidance and supervision of the Head of Data Coordination, the Evidence Custodian main duties and responsibilities include the following:

• Receive, categorize and process incoming biological materials including relevant documentation (chain of custody) for the purposes of the DNA testing.
• Catalogue, digitize and label biological materials and corresponding information through the ICMP data system (iDMS), while performing entry and/or verification of relevant information.
• Ensure proper submission and any other form of transfer of biological samples to and from the ICMP DNA Laboratory. Maintain the custody of any remaining materials or documents while ensuring proper storage and archiving. 
• Assist the Senior DNA Analyst, and other relevant ICMP staff, in reviewing, communicating and transferring of various information, including DNA Match Reports, to the relevant ICMP programs or to the external parties where appropriate.
• Provide support in the collection of information and evidence during the various activities that may take place in the ICMP areas of operation.  This may include collection of various types of biological materials in person or remotely.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the supervisor on status of cases submitted as well as the information exchanged within ICMP programs.

Requirements

• University degree in relevant field, (Biology, Chemistry, Criminalistics/Criminology or similar related fields).
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience.
• Proven experience in handling evidentiary materials.
• Experience with dealing with biological specimens.
• Experience in working in Laboratory environment.
• Experience in use of databases and managing of large amount of information.
  
• Experience in records management and archiving.
• Discretion, tact and professionalism.
• Excellent verbal presentation and advocacy skills.

Mandatory Requirements

• Professional fluency in written and spoken English.
• Knowledge of other languages: Spanish, Arabic, Ukrainian, Russian is an asset.
• Proficiency in Microsoft applications, including Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook and Teams.
• Proven ability to interact positively with colleagues regardless of culture, nationality or gender.
• Ability to travel at short notice and to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings.
• Commitment to the underlying objective of helping the authorities and families of the missing to account for missing persons in an impartial and transparent manner.
  

Benefits

This position is based in The Hague, The Netherlands. This is a full-time position with a competitive base salary at the TOS 5 level on the ICMP Technical and Operational Support salary scale. Benefits include six weeks of paid leave, and extended health and dental benefits. The position is not eligible for relocation or expatriate benefits. 

This position is based in The Hague, the international city of peace and justice. The Hague offers a comfortable lifestyle and appeals to those with a wide range of interests. To learn more about living in The Hague, please click here. ICMP staff enjoy exemption from income tax and social security deductions in the Netherlands (staff members are responsible for any income tax in their home country).

Job closing date: 30 April 2025

Review of applications is ongoing; if you are interested in the position, apply as early as possible.
 

ICMP is committed to maintaining an environment of mutual respect, where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants. ICMP believes that diversity and inclusion among our staff are critical to our success as a global organization, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented individuals from a thoroughly diverse range of candidates. ICMP is proud to be part of the International Gender Champions network. 

Please note that the employment offer may be made at a lower grade based on the qualifications and professional experience of the selected applicant.