Applications Support Analyst

In the evolving, volatile, fragile multinational environment, NATO Nations decided to reinforce Nato's capabilities to adapt quickly. The Project Linked NIC (NATO International Civilian) status has been created to allow a fast recruitment for current challenges related to NATO 2030. The offered position reflects CSO's ambition to reinforce its ability to maintain NATO's technological edge.

You are looking for a thrilling, meaningful challenge in a project that makes sense and is linked to all values shared by NATO's community, why not applying for this position? You will find an attractive physical package, a challenging environment in which you can be an actor of a common success, and an invaluable professional experience. Do never forget when reading the offer; who dares wins!

1.              POST CONTEXT AND RESPONSIBILITIES.

1.       The mission of the NATO Science & Technology Organization (STO) is to help position the Nations and NATO’s S&T investments as a strategic enabler of the knowledge and technical advantage for the defence and security posture of NATO Nations and partner Nations.

2.         As described in the STO Charter, the STO Collaboration Support Office (CSO) is one of the executive bodies of the STO. Within the framework of the STO Collaborative business model, the CSO provides executive and administrative support to the S&T activities conducted through the STO level 2 committees and level 3 working groups. 

3.         In its areas of expertise, the CSO provides assistance and support to the S&T Board, its Chair, the Chief Scientist, and his/her office.

4.         The Applications Support Analyst oversees the maintenance and optimization of applications within the STO. In accordance with guidance provided by the Staff Officer (Administrator, Information Management and Systems) and Head IKM, he/she is responsible for analysis and will play a critical role in ensuring the successful implementation, operation, and optimization of applications within the CSO that support the STO and will ultimately improve productivity, collaboration, and innovation.  He/she will work closely with the Knowledge and Analytics Manager, CIS Branch, and OCO to provide a platform to collaborate, save, share, and find information.

2.              Functions include:

1. Support the implementation of applications, ensuring smooth integration with existing systems and alignment with organizational goals.
2. Support the Staff Officer (Administrator, Information Management and Systems) to gather requirements, and configure/customize application features to meet business objectives.
3. Manage user access, permissions, and security settings for applications in close cooperation with organizational ICT and cybersecurity administrators.
4. Monitor platform performance, troubleshoot issues, and coordinate with providers (external and/or internal) IT teams for resolution.
5. Implement application patches and enhancements to optimize platform functionality and user experience in collaboration with ICT infrastructure and cyber security administrators.
6. Develop and deliver training programs to educate users on platform features, best practices, and productivity tools.
7. Provide ongoing support and guidance to users, addressing inquiries, resolving technical issues, and promoting adoption of collaborative tools.
8. Proactively identify opportunities for process improvements and user empowerment through application utilization.
9. Contribute to the development of governance policies, standards, and procedures for the use of collaborative platforms, ensuring data security, compliance with regulations, and adherence to company policies.
10. Contribute to elicitation and management of internal and/or external requirements in coordination with cross functional teams in charge of operational developments.
11. Monitor usage metrics and analyze data to assess compliance, identify trends, and recommend optimizations.
12. Cultivate strong partnerships with platform vendors, staying informed about product roadmaps, updates, and industry trends.
13. Collaborate with providers (internal and/or external) to escalate technical issues, prioritize feature requests, and influence product development roadmap.

Special Requirements and Additional Duties

14. Performs other related functions as directed by the Staff Officer (Administrator, Information Management and Systems) and deputises in case of his/her absence.

3.              Reporting Lines

The Applications Support Analyst reports to the IKM Head, and will work under the supervision of the Staff Officer (Administrator, Information Management and Systems) (IKM).

4.              QUALIFICATIONS

ESSENTIAL

Professional /Experience

Minimum 3-5 years professional experience in the field of applications support, preferably in an international or multi-cultural environment.

Education/Training

Higher Secondary education and completed higher vocational training in information technology, computer science, or related discipline leading to a formal technical or professional certification with 3 years related experience OR Secondary education and completed advanced vocational training in that discipline leading to a professional qualification or accreditation with 5 years related experience

a)     Understand Structured Query Language (SQL)

b)     Sound knowledge of the SharePoint environment

c)     Excellent knowledge of programming languages like .Net languages, PHP, HTML, Javascript and CSS

d)     Ability to diagnose and solve application issues

e)     Understand telecommunication systems

f)      Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and foster a culture of collaboration.

g)     In-depth knowledge of security best practices, data privacy regulations, and compliance standards relevant to collaborative technologies.

h)     Experience with cloud-based platforms, SaaS solutions, and integrations with third-party applications.

Language

·       Very good knowledge of one of the two official NATO languages and a fair knowledge of the other. The work is mainly conducted in English.

DESIRABLE

The following would be considered an advantage:

Professional /Experience

·       Experience in working with big data assets

·       Experience in scripting language (e.g. Powershell, Pyhton)

Education/Training

·       Certifications such as PMP, ITIL Foundation, or vendor-specific certifications (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Teams Administrator Associate)

Language

·       Very good knowledge of both NATO official languages.

5.             COMPETENCIES

1.     Personal attributes

a)    Reliability, trustworthy, discreet, with high sense of responsibility showing tact

b)    Diplomacy, and courtesy.

c)     Good judgment.

d)    Ability to take initiative and work independently. Should possess a flexible approach allowing the incumbent to respond reliably and competently to changing requirements.

e)    Capable of working in a demanding scientific international environment.

f)      Diplomacy and propriety in order to work harmoniously with colleagues and other staff, both civilian and military, from NATO and non-NATO Nations, as well as with staff from private scientific/industrial organizations.

2.     Professional Contacts

Liaises with individuals in high-level scientific international programmes, Panel Members, Authors, and attendees at meetings at varying senior levels, the Office of the Chief Scientist (OCS), the National Coordinators' offices, industry, media, and national laboratories. 

3.     Contribution to the Objectives

A dedicated Collaborative Platform manager can align the platform with the organization's strategic objectives and business processes. By understanding the goals and requirements of the CPoW Community and other Stakeholders, the Collaborative Platform manager can design and implement solutions that enhance productivity, collaboration, and innovation across the organization. It is also an important element in creating and maintaining the image and reputation of the STO and of its Collaborative Programme of Work run by the CSO.

6.              SECURITY CLEARANCE LEVEL

The applicant must be eligible for a NATO Secret security clearance.

7.              WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Normal office work environment, with occasional long hours and travels abroad.

8.              EMPLOYMENT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The position is at grade G12 The starting basic monthly salary will be Euro 5.964, exempt from income tax. Specific allowances may apply, depending on personal circumstances of the incumbent.

NATO International Civilian employees benefit 30 days of annual leave, life and medical insurance, and a retirement pension plan; expatriated Staff also benefits an expatriation allowance, educational allowance for dependent children and biennial home leave.

The successful candidate will be offered a definite duration contract of three years. This contract is a Project Linked NIC (NATO International Civilian) contract which should be strictly limited to three years,

The appointment is subject to the receipt by the CSO of a security clearance (provided by the national Authorities of the incumbent) and to the delivery of a certificate of medical fitness by the CSO Medical Advisor.

9.              APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Only nationals of the 32 NATO member countries can apply for this position.

Applications must be submitted as follows, as applicable:

·       For NATO serving civilian Staff members only: please apply via the internal recruitment portal (for more information, please contact your local Civilian HR Manager).

·       For all other applicants: www.nato.int/recruitment

A Selection Panel will evaluate the applications. Applicants who pass the initial screening by the Selection Panel will be invited to attend an interview with the Selection Panel (Beginning September  2025).

Candidates will attach a resume, an application letter and educational qualifications certificates to their NTAP application.

Due to the large number of potential candidates, telephone or email enquiries cannot be dealt with.

Notes:  NATO as employer values diverse backgrounds and perspectives and is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and talented workforce. NATO welcomes applications of nationals from all Member States and strongly encourages women to apply. According to the NATO Civilian Personnel Regulations, Staff members are appointed on the condition that they are over 21 and under 60 years of age at the time of taking up their appointment. However, appointment may be offered to candidates of 60 years of age or more provided that the expiry date of the contract is not later than the date at which the candidate attains the age of 65.