Consultant for Inclusive Childcare Services

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women, established in July 2010, is dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women. It operates globally, merging the efforts of four previously distinct parts of the UN system focused on gender issues. UN Women aims to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between genders. Its work is guided by various strategic frameworks, including the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Moldova (2023-2027) and the UN Women Global Strategic Plan. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various aspects of women's rights and gender equality.

Job Overview:
The consultant position is focused on developing inclusive and quality childcare services in Moldova, particularly aimed at redistributing unpaid care work and fostering women's full participation in the economy. The consultant will assess existing public childcare services, develop guidance and standards for inclusivity, and enhance the capacity of caregivers and professionals. This role is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by women and girls, especially those caring for children with disabilities. The consultant will work closely with local and national stakeholders to ensure that the services provided are accessible and responsive to the needs of all children, particularly those with disabilities. The assignment is home-based with some travel required, and it aims to create a significant impact on the lives of women and children in Moldova.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for assessing the conditions and available educational tools in at least five public kindergartens outside Chisinau, developing guidance and quality standards for inclusive childcare services, and delivering training sessions for caregivers and professionals. They will provide recommendations on inclusive educational tools, coordinate with local stakeholders, and submit a final report summarizing activities, good practices, and recommendations for capacity building. The consultant will also ensure that the services align with the principles of dignity, non-discrimination, and participation as outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in social sciences, psychology, clinical psychology, psycho pedagogy, educational sciences, or related fields. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Additional training or certification in working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Cerebral Palsy (CP), and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is considered an asset. Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage with various stakeholders effectively.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in relevant fields such as social sciences, psychology, clinical psychology, psycho pedagogy, or educational sciences is required. A first-level university degree may be accepted with additional qualifying experience. Additional certifications in working with children with disabilities are advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience in psychological and therapeutic interventions is required, along with at least three years of experience in delivering training tailored to children's needs. Experience with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques and working with governmental or international organizations is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in Romanian and Russian is required, with working knowledge of English or any other official UN language considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is home-based with a maximum of five trips outside Chisinau. The assignment is expected to last for 10 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and needs. Payment will be made monthly upon approval of deliverables and timesheets, with the number of days worked determined by UN Women. The consultant will report to the Project Officer on women’s economic empowerment and will be required to submit regular progress reports.