WASH Specialist (Strategic and Technical Support)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) was established in 1999 with the mission to support sustainable development and aid governments in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNOPS operates in multiple countries, including Pakistan, where it focuses on development programming related to Climate Adaptation, Basic Service Delivery, and Energy Efficiency. The organization aims to be a reliable provider of efficient services and has a significant presence in the Asia Pacific region, particularly through its Sri Lanka Multi-Country Office.

Job Overview:
The WASH Specialist will play a crucial role in the project 'Improved Access to Water and Sanitation Services in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh,' which commenced in September 2021 and is set to last until December 202

• This position involves providing technical leadership and donor engagement support to the WASH program in Pakistan. The specialist will ensure that ongoing and upcoming WASH projects align with national priorities and donor expectations, focusing on soft component development such as capacity-building and training for government counterparts. The role also includes enhancing UNOPS visibility in the WASH sector and supporting resource mobilization efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WASH Specialist will be responsible for providing high-level technical guidance to ensure the quality and sustainability of WASH programming. This includes developing or refining WASH strategies and frameworks, supporting the implementation of WASH activities, and ensuring compliance with donor requirements. The specialist will identify and plan soft WASH activities in Sindh and KPK, ensuring that methodologies are culturally appropriate and cost-effective. Additionally, the role involves analyzing donor landscapes, preparing engagement briefs, drafting proposals, and supporting partnerships for program development. The specialist will engage with stakeholders, promote collaboration, and facilitate alignment of partner activities with national WASH priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in civil/environmental engineering, water resources, public health, development studies, or a related field. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of relevant experience may substitute for the Master’s degree requirement. A minimum of six years of senior-level experience in WASH programming is required, preferably in humanitarian or development contexts. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in implementing soft WASH activities, engaging with donors, and preparing proposals. Proven expertise in stakeholder coordination and a strong understanding of donor landscapes are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as civil or environmental engineering, water resources, public health, or development studies. A Bachelor’s degree may be acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant experience, emphasizing the importance of both formal education and practical experience in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of senior-level experience in WASH programming, with a preference for candidates who have worked in humanitarian or development contexts. Experience in identifying and implementing soft WASH activities, engaging with donors, and preparing technical content is crucial. Candidates should also have a proven track record in stakeholder coordination and inter-agency collaboration, along with a strong understanding of the sector's priorities and donor landscapes. Experience in Pakistan or similar socio-political contexts is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Urdu and regional languages is considered an asset, enhancing communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) at the Local ICA Specialist level (L-ICA 10). The contract duration is until September 2026, with an expected commitment of approximately 100 days. This is a retainer-based assignment, meaning that the consultant will work intermittently based on agreed deliverables and timelines. The consultant must be available for periodic field travel as required. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and underrepresented groups. Candidates should be aware that UNOPS conducts background checks on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent upon the results of these checks.