WASH Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of children worldwide. With a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, develop, and thrive, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries. The organization focuses on equity, aiming to reach the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. UNICEF's work encompasses various sectors, including health, education, and protection, and is guided by the principles outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The organization employs thousands of staff members globally, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and communities to advance children's rights and improve access to essential services.

Job Overview:
The WASH Specialist position at UNICEF Papua New Guinea is a critical role aimed at enhancing the delivery of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services across the country. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Chief of WASH, collaborating closely with government counterparts, development partners, and UNICEF program teams. The primary functions of this role include supporting the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the WASH program. The specialist will contribute to strengthening national and sub-national WASH sector systems, improving institutional capacities, and developing policies and strategies that facilitate sustainable access to WASH services, particularly for vulnerable populations. The role also involves generating evidence for decision-making, supporting public finance analysis, and engaging in resource mobilization efforts to enhance investment in the WASH sector. The WASH Specialist will play a vital part in ensuring that UNICEF's initiatives align with national development priorities and contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WASH Specialist will undertake a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Supporting WASH Systems Strengthening: Collaborate with government counterparts to enhance sector planning, monitoring, and coordination processes. Assist in developing technical guidance and operational tools for effective WASH service delivery.
• Evidence Generation and Knowledge Management: Coordinate sector studies and assessments to generate actionable evidence. Analyze data to identify trends and opportunities for improving WASH outcomes. Prepare technical briefs and knowledge products for stakeholders.
• Public Finance for WASH: Conduct public finance analyses and budget reviews to inform investment strategies. Advocate for increased public sector investments in WASH services.
• Resource Mobilization: Develop strategies for resource mobilization and identify funding opportunities. Engage with donors and partners to secure financial support for WASH initiatives.
• Donor Proposal Development and Reporting: Lead the preparation of high-quality donor proposals and reports, ensuring alignment with UNICEF standards.
• Programme Monitoring and Results Reporting: Monitor progress against work plans and document results and lessons learned.
• Emergency Preparedness and Response: Integrate emergency preparedness into WASH activities and contribute to response planning when necessary.
• UN Volunteer Contribution: Promote volunteerism and contribute to capacity strengthening and knowledge sharing within the program.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the WASH Specialist position should possess a strong set of qualifications, including:

• A deep understanding of WASH sector dynamics, policies, and best practices.
• Proven experience in program planning, implementation, and monitoring within the WASH sector.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and generate actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• A commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, particularly in promoting equity and child rights.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background, typically including a master's degree in public health, water resources management, environmental science, or a related field. A strong academic foundation in WASH-related disciplines is essential for understanding the complexities of the sector and contributing effectively to UNICEF's initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the WASH sector, with a focus on program management, policy development, and evidence generation. Experience working in developing countries, particularly in contexts similar to Papua New Guinea, is highly desirable. Familiarity with public finance analysis and resource mobilization strategies will be an added advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF and with external stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Papua New Guinea would be beneficial but is not a requirement.

Additional Notes:
This position is a UN Volunteer assignment, which may involve a contract duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The role is full-time and may require periodic travel to remote areas, where living conditions can be challenging. The WASH Specialist will be expected to adhere to UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security protocols during field missions. UNICEF offers reasonable accommodation for volunteers with disabilities, and candidates are encouraged to disclose any such needs during the application process.