Urban Planner

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is the UN agency established to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities, with the overarching goal of providing adequate shelter for all. Founded by the General Assembly, UN-Habitat has been pivotal in shaping global standards for sustainable urban development since its inception. The agency operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on advancing sustainable urbanization, inclusive governance, climate resilience, and access to adequate housing, land, and basic services. UN-Habitat's mission is further emphasized through its implementation of the EU Operational Support to the IGAD Platform, which aims to strengthen institutional and community capacities in response to forced displacement and promote sustainable development solutions across the IGAD region, including Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Sudan.

Job Overview:
The Urban Planner position is integral to the effective coordination and implementation of the South Sudan component of the EU Operational Support to the IGAD Platform. This role involves ensuring that project activities are delivered on time and within budget while managing partnerships effectively. The Urban Planner will be responsible for providing administrative, operational, and programmatic support, which includes coordinating project schedules, meetings, missions, financial and procurement processes, documentation, reporting, and stakeholder engagement activities. The position is crucial for promoting sustainable urban development and durable solutions for communities affected by displacement, aligning with UN-Habitat's mandate. The Urban Planner will work under the direct supervision of the International Project Coordinator and the National Project Manager, contributing to the overall objectives of the project and ensuring compliance with donor and UN-Habitat requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Urban Planner will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to:

• Strategic Planning and Technical Work: - Collect, compile, validate, and analyze geo-referenced spatial data from various sources. - Develop and maintain GIS databases to support planning and decision-making. - Conduct desk reviews of relevant policies and frameworks. - Assess governance structures and stakeholder roles in urban development.
• Multi-Scalar and Multi-Sectoral Spatial Analysis: - Conduct comprehensive spatial analyses to understand existing conditions and development trends. - Perform environmental impact assessments related to climate change and vulnerabilities. - Map and assess existing infrastructure networks and services.
• Mapping, Visualization, and Analytical Graphics: - Produce high-quality maps and visualizations to communicate findings effectively.
• Strategic Development Planning: - Identify and spatially propose infrastructure investments and interventions.
• Evidence-Based Reporting: - Prepare technical reports incorporating spatial analyses and recommendations.
• Quality Assurance: - Proofread and edit outputs to ensure compliance with UN-Habitat standards.
• Coordination and Field Activities Support: - Report on project progress and support field missions in South Sudan. - Translate and analyze field findings into actionable recommendations. - Support stakeholder consultations and technical workshops. - Provide technical support for project monitoring and evaluations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in architecture, civil engineering, urban and regional planning, economics, or physical sciences relevant to human settlements development. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. At least two years of relevant work experience in urban development and planning is required, along with knowledge of GIS/ArcGIS and Adobe Suite Tools. Understanding and experience in managing spatial regional and urban data are essential, and experience in urban development, migration, or resilience-related programs is desirable.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as architecture, civil engineering, urban and regional planning, economics, or physical sciences. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience, demonstrating the candidate's capability in the field.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in urban development and planning is required. Candidates should have a solid understanding of GIS/ArcGIS and experience in managing spatial data. Experience working on urban development, migration, or resilience-related programs, particularly with international development organizations, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for six months and is based in Nairobi, Kenya. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.