Specialized Consultant for Social Work Project Budgeting

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is dedicated to promoting sustainable development of human settlements and policies that ensure adequate housing for all. Established to address urbanization challenges, UN-Habitat works with various stakeholders, including governments and civil society, to implement the Habitat Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. The organization operates globally, with a significant presence in Brazil, where it has expanded its portfolio to support effective urban policies. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and focuses on enhancing urban living conditions through various programs, including the Periferia Viva Program, which aims to improve infrastructure and social conditions in marginalized communities.

Job Overview:
The Specialized Consultant for Social Work Project Budgeting will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Periferia Viva Program in Santo André, São Paulo. This position involves close collaboration with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams to ensure that social work projects are effectively budgeted and executed. The consultant will be responsible for preparing detailed budget breakdowns and schedules for social work activities associated with the urbanization of favelas, ensuring compliance with UN-Habitat standards. The consultant will also engage in technical meetings, maintain organized documentation, and uphold ethical principles throughout the consultancy. This role is essential for facilitating the socio-territorial transformation of communities in need, ensuring that interventions are inclusive and participatory, and that the local population's right to adequate housing is respected.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have several key responsibilities, including: 1) Preparing a comprehensive budget breakdown and physical and financial schedule for social work activities related to the New PAC (Growth Acceleration Program for the Urbanization of Favelas). 2) Participating in technical alignment meetings with the Social Work team to ensure project requirements are met. 3) Ensuring compliance with UN-Habitat quality standards and project requirements. 4) Completing all required training and courses as directed by the supervisor. 5) Adopting ethical principles during the consultancy, particularly in promoting a safe and inclusive environment. 6) Maintaining an organized information file system for all project-related data. The consultant will also be responsible for delivering specific products, including technical workshop reports and detailed budgeting spreadsheets for various phases of the urbanization project, with set deadlines for each deliverable.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Social Sciences, or related fields, along with a postgraduate degree in the same or related areas, or an equivalent of four additional years of relevant experience. A minimum of six years of experience in coordinating social work initiatives, particularly in slum upgrading projects in Brazil, is required. Experience in preparing budgets and financial schedules for social work planning is essential, and familiarity with the United Nations System is desirable. Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and online platforms, are necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Social Sciences, or related fields. Additionally, a postgraduate degree in these areas is preferred. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree who have at least four years of relevant experience beyond the minimum requirement may also be considered. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of social work and urban development.

Experience:
The consultant must have a minimum of six years of experience in coordinating social work, technical assistance, or advisory initiatives specifically related to slum upgrading plans or projects in Brazil. This experience should include a proven track record in preparing budgets and physical-financial schedules for social work planning. Previous experience working within or with the United Nations System is considered an asset, as it demonstrates familiarity with international standards and practices in urban development.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the local context. Additionally, a working knowledge of English is desirable, as English and French are the official working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in Spanish is also beneficial, given that it is the working language of the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is part-time (55%) and is expected to last for three months. The total remuneration for the consultant is BRL 16,000, which will be paid in two installments upon the successful delivery of specified products. The position is open to nationals from Brazil or external candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil. The contract's extension is contingent upon the availability of funds and performance, and it is important to note that the application process requires all curricular information to be submitted through the designated system. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and all applications will be treated confidentially.