The majority of positions in OSCE field operations are filled by secondment, which means that individuals are nominated by their respective OSCE participating State.

Seconded positions are available in the following fields of expertise: 

  • Administration and support 
  • Civilian police 
  • Democratization 
  • Economic and environmental affairs 
  • Education 
  • Elections 
  • General staff/monitoring functions 
  • Human rights 
  • Media affairs 
  • Military affairs 
  • Political affairs 
  • Rule of law

Besides meeting the criteria outlined in these fields of expertise, candidates must also meet the OSCE general minimum requirements for mission members.

For middle and senior management positions, candidates must possess solid management skills and experience.

In addition, a limited number of seconded positions are available at the OSCE Secretariat and the Institutions.

How to apply

Having identified a vacancy notice for which you would like to apply, click on the Apply Online link, select your respective participating State and follow the application method shown. If your participating State is using the OSCE iRecruitment online system, the application will be directed electronically to your respective Ministry of Foreign Affairs and/or OSCE Delegation. If your participating State is not using the on-line method, you will be requested to contact your OSCE Delegation. The nomination process takes place in the respective countries. The OSCE is committed to achieving a better balance of women and men within the Organization. The nomination of female candidates is particularly encouraged.

OSCE participating States are responsible for the compensation/benefit packages of seconded staff, therefore please direct all enquiries to the designated contact point. The OSCE pays living expenses in the form of a board and lodging allowance for those positions located in a field duty station. However, for secondments to the Secretariat and the Institutions, all costs must be borne by the nominating authority.

Secondments are generally for an initial period of twelve months, with a possibility of extension. The OSCE is a non-career organization committed to the principle of staff rotation. Seconded mission members may serve in the same mission for a maximum period of seven years, whereas the total length of service with the OSCE shall not exceed ten years.