Shelter Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, providing critical assistance and protection to millions of individuals worldwide. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it strives to promote durable solutions for displaced populations.

Job Overview:
The Shelter Assistant plays a crucial role in the implementation of shelter and infrastructure projects within the Area of Responsibility (AoR). This position requires a technical background in Shelter/Settlement and Infrastructure rehabilitation, along with experience in computer-aided drafting (CAD). The Shelter Assistant will assist in conducting comprehensive shelter needs assessments, ensuring that both quantitative and qualitative data are collected to understand the living conditions of displaced populations and host communities. The role involves daily supervision of construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with established standards and timelines. The Shelter Assistant will work closely with various sectors, including protection, community services, and public health, to ensure a coordinated response to the needs of the population. The position also emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices and minimizing risks associated with shelter assistance, such as overcrowding and limited access to services. The Shelter Assistant will report to a senior shelter colleague and is expected to uphold UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Shelter Assistant's duties include assisting in the preparation and review of shelter needs assessments, prioritizing the needs of vulnerable populations, and supervising UNHCR construction and infrastructure projects. The incumbent will coordinate with other sectors to ensure synchronized implementation of shelter and infrastructure projects. Responsibilities also include providing technical assistance to implementing partners, preparing bid documents, evaluating bids, and inspecting the quality of shelter and infrastructure works. The Shelter Assistant will identify and manage risks, ensuring that decision-making is informed by the functional area of work. Additional duties may be assigned as required, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and communication with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess relevant working experience, particularly in collaboration with international organizations. A good technical knowledge of construction standards and guidance is essential, especially regarding shelter typologies utilized in UNHCR refugee responses. Familiarity with UNHCR shelter standards and related protection and environmental guidelines is desirable. The ability to work effectively in multi-sectoral teams and in hardship environments is also required.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a High School Diploma, along with one year of relevant experience. Alternatively, candidates with a Bachelor's degree or higher in a related field are also eligible. No specific field of education is mandated for this role, but relevant certifications may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience in a related field. Candidates should have experience working with international organizations and a solid understanding of construction standards and practices. Experience in humanitarian contexts, particularly in shelter and infrastructure projects, is highly valued.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, if not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS IICA4 staff member type and is not home-based. The target start date for this role is November 1, 202

• The position is categorized under hardship level E, indicating a challenging working environment. The organization emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, and encourages a safe and empowering work environment for all staff members. Applications must be submitted before the deadline, and late applications will not be accepted. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a written test and/or oral interview as part of the selection process. UNHCR does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and strongly encourages qualified female applicants to apply.