Assistant Shelter Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has been operational in Ukraine since 1994, significantly increasing its presence and response efforts following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 202

• The organization aims to provide protection and assistance to displaced populations and those affected by the ongoing conflict. UNHCR operates in various capacities across the country, with its main office located in Kyiv and several sub-offices in cities such as Dnipro, L’viv, Odesa, and Kharkiv. The organization is committed to addressing the urgent humanitarian needs of over 12.7 million people in Ukraine, many of whom are internally displaced or refugees. UNHCR collaborates with local authorities, NGOs, and other humanitarian partners to deliver essential services and support recovery efforts in war-torn communities. The organization is also involved in leading three clusters: Protection, Shelter and NFIs, and CCCM, ensuring a coordinated response to the crisis.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Shelter Officer plays a crucial role in the UNHCR's efforts to address the shelter and infrastructure needs of displaced populations and host communities. This position involves conducting comprehensive sectoral needs assessments in collaboration with various sectors, including protection, community services, and public health. The incumbent will oversee the daily operations of construction and infrastructure projects within their Area of Responsibility (AoR), ensuring compliance with established standards and procedures throughout the project cycle. The role requires maintaining close communication with technical and non-technical staff from UN agencies, NGOs, and government authorities to ensure effective coordination and implementation of shelter strategies. The Assistant Shelter Officer will also contribute to the development of sustainable shelter solutions that consider local building practices and environmental impacts, ultimately working towards durable solutions for affected populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Shelter Officer's duties include:

• Assisting in the development and periodic updating of shelter approaches within the AoR, considering local resources and environmental protection.
• Participating in comprehensive needs assessments and engaging with stakeholders to prioritize the shelter needs of vulnerable populations.
• Contributing to shelter strategies and ensuring alignment with national and global policies.
• Overseeing construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with UNHCR and national standards.
• Monitoring shelter programs and initiating responses to address gaps in collaboration with technical staff and operational partners.
• Coordinating with other sectors to synchronize shelter solutions with water, sanitation, education, and health initiatives.
• Supporting implementing partners on technical shelter issues and ensuring adherence to global strategies.
• Participating in coordination meetings and disseminating information to stakeholders.
• Collaborating with the Programme team to review technical components of project agreements and provide inputs during partner selection. 1
• Conducting technical evaluations of bids and ensuring quality control of shelter and infrastructure works.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a relevant undergraduate degree in fields such as Architecture, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Construction Management. For those with a graduate degree, no prior experience is required, while candidates with a doctorate also qualify without experience. Essential qualifications include hands-on technical support experience in emergency assistance delivery, knowledge of SPHERE standards, and proficiency in using survey equipment and software such as AutoCAD. Desirable qualifications include familiarity with UNHCR systems and operational modalities, as well as an understanding of the humanitarian architecture.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. Advanced degrees such as a Master's or Doctorate in these areas are also acceptable, with varying experience requirements based on the level of education attained.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree. Those with a graduate degree or doctorate are not required to have prior experience. Candidates should have practical experience in technical support roles, particularly in emergency and relief operations, and familiarity with shelter and infrastructure projects is highly beneficial.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, along with knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For national professional roles, knowledge of the local language is also required. A B2 level proficiency in Ukrainian and English is expected, with additional languages being advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, with a grade of NOA. The contract is regular and full-time, with a target start date of November 1, 202

• The position is based in Dnipro, Ukraine, with potential responsibilities extending to Budapest, Hungary. The role involves working in a high-risk environment due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and candidates should be prepared for dynamic security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security conditions. The UNHCR emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and respectful workplace, free from harassment and discrimination.