Staff Officer (Capability Development)

NATO; Belgique (MO); On-site; USD 62,728 - 85,538; Full time

Job summary

The role at NATO SHAPE involves leading capability development for civil-military cooperation, ensuring requirements are integrated into the development process, and coordinating across ACO CIMIC communities of interest. You will engage with senior officials and partners to track capability evolution and ensure practical implementation in exercises and operations.

We seek professionals with strategic headquarters experience, strong analytical and communication skills, and the ability to operate

Qualifications

• University Degree and 2 years function-related experience, or Higher Secondary education with advanced vocational training leading to a professional qualification and 4 years post-related experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the J9 Capability Development requirements, including requirements for the operationalisation of the NATO CIMIC Analysis and Assessment Capability (NCAAC) throughout ACO.
• Ensure operational requirements are considered in the Capability Development process and update the process with new information as appropriate.
• Coordinate on the status and evolution of operational requirements throughout ACO's CIMIC Community of Interest (CoI).
• Participate in analytical exchanges through ACO's CIMIC CoI and SHAPE Battle Rhythm events where new requirements are identified as part of practical experience or the LI/LL process.
• Track the status of the capabilities under development and update the Requirement Authority and the broader ACO CIMIC CoI on their evolution.

Skills

Analytical mind

Interpersonal skills

Judgment

Professional contacts

Education

University degree

Higher secondary with vocational training

Tools

TOPFAS

AOSS

INTEL FS

MAVEN Smart System

Job description

Job Context

Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) provides an integrated Strategic Effects framework, employing a multi‑domain and multi‑region focus to create a 360‑degree approach. The Partnerships Directorate enhances Military Cooperation with partner nations, international organisations and host nations. The J9 Cooperation and Liaison Division provides direction and coordination across ACO on civil‑military interaction. The Civil‑Military Cooperation Plans and Operations Branch offers expertise in operations and exercise planning processes.

Principal Duties

• Lead the J9 Capability Development requirements, including requirements for the operationalisation of the NATO CIMIC Analysis and Assessment Capability (NCAAC) throughout ACO.
• Ensure operational requirements are considered in the Capability Development process and update the process with new information as appropriate.
• Coordinate on the status and evolution of operational requirements throughout ACO's CIMIC Community of Interest (CoI).
• Participate in analytical exchanges through ACO's CIMIC CoI and SHAPE Battle Rhythm events where new requirements are identified as part of practical experience or the Lessons Identified/Lessons Learnt (LI/LL) process.
• Track the status of the capabilities under development and update the Requirement Authority and the broader ACO CIMIC CoI on their evolution.

Special Requirements and Additional Duties

• The employee may be required to perform a similar range of duties elsewhere within the organisation at the same grade without changing the contract.
• The incumbent may need to undertake TDY assignments both within and outside NATO boundaries and be willing to work unsocial hours.
• The work is normally performed in a normal NATO office working environment.
• The risk of injury is categorised as No risk / risk might increase when deployed.

Essential Qualifications

• Professional Experience: Previous Civil‑Military Cooperation experience at a Strategic/Operational Headquarters; broad knowledge and experience working on Capability Development; ability to interface, coordinate and discuss operational issues with senior officials.
• Education/Training: University Degree and 2 years function‑related experience, or Higher Secondary education with advanced vocational training leading to a professional qualification and 4 years post‑related experience. Qualified job‑specific experience takes priority over standard education levels.
• Language: English – SLP 3333 (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing).

Desirable Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of NATO CIMIC policy, doctrine, environment and procedures.
• Experience with NATO deployment or multinational/joint operations.
• Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with NATO tools (e.g. TOPFAS, AOSS, INTEL FS, MAVEN Smart System or national equivalents).
• Knowledge of NATO Common Funding or Multinational investment models.

Attributes / Competencies

• Analytical mind to identify and evaluate complex and competing issues and develop pragmatic solutions.
• High‑level interpersonal skills, able to work successfully across all organisational levels and cultures.
• Strong judgment, tact, agility and high standards of personal and professional behaviour.
• Professional contacts: comfortable engaging with individuals from across ACO SHAPE, NATO Command Structure and partner nations, understanding sensitivities in an international environment.

Contract & Remuneration

Duration: Three‑year definite contract as a Project Linked NATO International Civilian (PLN) within the NATO 2030 Agenda. Upon expiry, the PLN may be deleted or absorbed into the ceiling pending approval or considered for extension.

The salary will be the basic entry‑level monthly salary defined by the NATO grade of the post, potentially augmented by allowances based on eligibility, subject to approximately 20% withholding for pension and medical insurance contributions.

EEO Statement

NATO is committed to diversity and inclusion and strives to provide equal access to employment, advancement and retention, independent of gender, age, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, cultural background, sexual orientation and disability. NATO welcomes applications from nationals of all member nations.