Housing and Shelter Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) operates under the mandate derived from the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 33/147, established on December 20, 197

• The organization aims to improve the economic and social conditions of the Palestinian people by identifying their needs and establishing concrete projects. UNDP/PAPP is dedicated to working collaboratively with the Palestinian people to achieve sustainable human development based on principles of self-determination, equality, and freedom. The organization has a significant presence in the region, focusing on various development initiatives and projects that align with the aspirations of the Palestinian people.

Job Overview:
The Housing and Shelter Expert will serve as the lead technical focal point for the planning and design of housing and shelter recovery components under the Gaza Recovery, Reconstruction and Development Plan (GRRDP). This role is critical in addressing the extensive destruction of housing infrastructure in Gaza due to ongoing conflicts. The expert will be responsible for developing and operationalizing a comprehensive housing and shelter strategy that aligns with national frameworks and humanitarian standards. This includes guiding the design and implementation of both temporary and permanent shelter solutions, ensuring that all responses are culturally relevant, gender-sensitive, and inclusive of vulnerable populations. The expert will also liaise with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, international agencies, and civil society, to ensure coherent and harmonized efforts in shelter recovery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Housing and Shelter Expert will undertake a variety of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Developing a comprehensive housing and shelter strategy for Gaza that aligns with national frameworks and humanitarian standards.
• Guiding the design and implementation of temporary and permanent shelter solutions, including prefabricated housing and rehabilitation schemes.
• Ensuring that shelter responses integrate safety, cultural relevance, gender sensitivity, and inclusivity for vulnerable populations.
• Liaising with the Ministry of Public Works and Housing, international agencies, and civil society to ensure coherent and harmonized efforts in shelter recovery.
• Advising on policy, technical standards, and innovative models for shelter reconstruction and neighborhood revitalization.
• Supporting the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation (MoPIC) in appraising housing-related proposals and overseeing implementation quality and impact.
• Building the technical capacities of national and local actors through training, coordination platforms, and policy dialogue.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a strong set of qualifications, including:

• Proven experience in housing and shelter recovery, preferably in a post-conflict or humanitarian context.
• Strong understanding of national and international housing policies, standards, and best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a relevant educational background, typically including a degree in architecture, urban planning, civil engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in housing and shelter recovery, disaster management, or humanitarian response would be advantageous.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in the field of housing and shelter recovery, with a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience. Experience working in the Palestinian context or similar environments is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the challenges and opportunities related to housing reconstruction in post-conflict settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Arabic is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and communities. Additional languages may be considered an asset, depending on the context of the work.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national UN Volunteer assignment, which means the volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and other living essentials. The contract is for 12 months, with the possibility of extensions based on funding availability, operational necessity, and satisfactory performance. The volunteer will receive a Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of ILS 8,200 per month to cover housing, utilities, and normal living expenses. Additionally, life, health, and permanent disability insurance are provided, including health insurance for up to three dependents, as well as an exit allowance for satisfactory service.