Safety and Security Intern

Save the Children is seeking a dedicated Safety and Security Intern to join its Operations team in Kenya. This career opportunity is ideal for early-career professionals looking to build experience in NGO safety and security management, humanitarian operations, emergency planning, and risk coordination. Individuals searching for NGO internships in Kenya, humanitarian security roles, or safety and operations support jobs will find this position aligned with their professional goals.

Key Job Information

• Position: Safety and Security Intern
• Location: Kenya
• Employment Type: Internship (Full-time)
• Experience Level: Entry-Level / Graduate Internship
• Salary Range: Not specified
• Application Deadline: Not specified (early applications encouraged)

About Save the Children

Save the Children is one of the largest and most respected international NGOs in the world, with a long-standing presence in Kenya dating back to the 1950s. The organization implements both long-term development programmes and life-saving humanitarian interventions, working to protect children and uphold their rights regardless of circumstance.

In Kenya, Save the Children operates across multiple thematic areas including child protection, child rights governance, education, health, HIV/AIDS response, livelihoods, nutrition, and WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene). The organization delivers programs directly and through strategic partnerships with local organizations.

Save the Children Kenya underwent major structural evolution in 2012 by unifying the operations of Save the Children UK, Canada, and Finland under a single national entity. In 2014, it further integrated Merlin’s health and nutrition programmes into its portfolio, strengthening its operational capacity nationwide. With approximately 230 staff, a 2025 operating budget of USD 20 million, and operations across regions including Garissa, Mandera, Turkana, Wajir, Kakuma, Dadaab, Nandi, and Kajiado, the organization maintains a strong national footprint. Save the Children International is recognized globally for championing children’s rights, responding to emergencies, and influencing policies that protect children worldwide.

Job Description

The Safety and Security Intern will support the Operations Coordinator in strengthening organizational security systems, updating key data tools, and ensuring staff receive timely and accurate safety guidance. This role plays an essential part in reinforcing field-level readiness, emergency planning, and compliance with global Save the Children security protocols.

The intern will assist with visitor management, documentation, tracking, incident reporting, and coordination tasks that enhance staff safety throughout Kenya. This opportunity provides hands-on experience for individuals seeking careers in NGO operations, risk management, emergency response, and humanitarian safety coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Liaise with the Admin Team to maintain the visitor tracker and ensure all visitors receive timely security briefings, either before travel or within 24 hours of arrival.
• Support the Operations Coordinator in compiling routine security reports and ensuring all databases are consistently updated and accurate.
• Assist in gathering and organizing daily security information to support monthly reporting and operational decision-making.
• Participate in the planning and logistical preparation of field visit support.
• Maintain and regularly update the organizational security/communication tree, including conducting monthly system tests.
• Support staff in reporting workplace incidents through Datix.
• Assist the Operations Coordinator during staff security training sessions.
• Provide support in preparing emergency and contingency planning documentation.
• Help ensure safety procedures during emergency response are fully documented and disseminated to staff.
• Offer back-up support to the Operations Coordinator during emergency situations.
• Respond to staff inquiries regarding security procedures and escalate technical queries when necessary.
• Inspect and evaluate workplace environments, equipment, and practices to ensure regulatory and internal compliance.
• Perform additional duties assigned within the Operations unit.

Required Qualifications

• Relevant academic background such as Security Studies, International Relations, Disaster Management, Political Science, Public Administration, or related fields.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to compile and manage data accurately.
• Basic understanding of safety, security, or emergency preparedness concepts (an advantage).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and digital tools.
• Strong ethical standards and commitment to Save the Children values.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous volunteer or internship experience with NGOs, humanitarian agencies, or community programs.
• Familiarity with incident reporting systems such as Datix.
• Knowledge of Kenyan security landscapes, especially high-risk counties.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in diverse, multicultural teams.

Benefits and Compensation

Save the Children provides interns with an opportunity to gain practical field and operational experience within a global humanitarian organization. Interns benefit from:

• Exposure to international NGO security systems and tools
• Professional mentorship from experienced operations and security staff
• Hands-on participation in emergency planning and field safety processes
• Access to training sessions and capacity-building opportunities
• Inclusive, diverse, and supportive working environment

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply using the Apply Now button below. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

Save the Children is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages applications from female candidates. Candidates are reminded that Save the Children does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.