Strategic adviser for detention systems in the Americas. The ICRC is hiring a Spanish-speaking Detention System Adviser based in Geneva. Lead policy reform and operational support. Apply by 22 Feb 2026.
Job Title: Detention System Adviser – Spanish Speaking
| Organization | International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) |
| Unit | Protection & Essential Services (Detention) |
| Location | Geneva, Switzerland (Headquarters) – Mobile Staff |
| Job Level | C1 (Senior Professional) |
| Contract Type | Max Term Contract (24 months, extendable) |
| Application Deadline | 22 February 2026 |
Strategic Context
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is mandated to protect the dignity and lives of people deprived of their liberty. Beyond monitoring conditions of detention, we work to address the systemic causes of humanitarian issues in prisons, such as overcrowding, lack of healthcare, and judicial delays.
We are recruiting a Detention System Adviser with specific expertise in the Americas region. Based in Geneva but with a global deployment contract, you will serve as the organization’s technical authority on prison systems in Spanish-speaking contexts. This role is pivotal for translating field observations into high-level policy dialogue with national authorities.
Position Mandate
You will provide expert guidance to ICRC delegations, helping them navigate complex relationships with prison administrations and ministries of justice. Your primary objective is to support the design and implementation of structural reforms that improve the treatment of detainees.
This is not an entry-level position; it requires a seasoned professional capable of advising senior government officials on penitentiary management, criminal justice policy, and international standards.
Key Accountabilities
Operational Support & Strategy
- Advise ICRC delegations in Latin America on detention strategies, ensuring interventions address root causes rather than just symptoms.
- Conduct specialized assessments of penitentiary systems, focusing on management structures, infrastructure, and judicial guarantees.
- Mentor detention staff in the field, enhancing their ability to analyze prison dynamics and engage effectively with authorities.
- Lead the development of regional strategies to tackle systemic issues such as overcrowding and pre-trial detention delays.
Systemic Reform & Representation
- Engage directly with prison authorities to craft strategies for improving penitentiary systems.
- Advise detaining bodies on compliance with international standards and the promotion of human dignity.
- Coordinate high-level training, workshops, and seminars for penitentiary administrations and judicial actors.
- Represent the ICRC in regional and international forums where prison systems and penal reform are discussed.
Knowledge Management
- Develop technical guidelines and tools to support ICRC detention activities globally.
- Analyze trends in criminal justice and detention policy to inform institutional decision-making.
- Ensure multidisciplinary collaboration with health, water and habitat, and judicial experts to deliver holistic solutions.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking a candidate with a deep understanding of the political and operational realities of prison systems in the Americas.
Essential Qualifications
- Education: Advanced degree in Law, Criminology, Social Sciences, Management, or certification from a Penitentiary School.
- Experience: At least 10 years of experience in senior management or policy roles within prison systems or criminal justice.
- Crucial: International experience in detention systems outside your country of origin is required.
- Specific: Minimum 2 years conducting analysis of detention in conflict-affected foreign states.
- Technical Expertise: Proven track record in project management, capacity building, and supporting prison reform plans.
- Languages: Excellent command of Spanish (C1/Native) and English (C1) is mandatory. Knowledge of French, Arabic, or Russian is an asset.
Core Competencies
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to analyze complex systems and propose realistic, sustainable reforms.
- Influence: Strong negotiation and mentoring skills to drive change with external authorities and internal teams.
- Resilience: Willingness to travel frequently and work in politically sensitive or fragile contexts.
Operational Constraints
- Mobility: This is a mobile staff position. Candidates must be prepared for global deployment if required, although the focus is Spanish-speaking regions.
- Unaccompanied: Candidates must be willing to accept an unaccompanied posting for the first 6 months of the assignment.
How to Apply
Closing Date: 22 February 2026
To be considered for this strategic role, please submit your application via the ICRC career portal.
The ICRC is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. We do not assign personnel to a country of which they are nationals.