Humanitarian WASH Response Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and works tirelessly to ensure that children have access to essential services and support, especially during emergencies. UNICEF employs thousands of staff worldwide, working collaboratively with governments, NGOs, and communities to address the needs of vulnerable populations, particularly children.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian WASH Response Consultant position is critical for strengthening UNICEF Nepal's emergency WASH preparedness and response capabilities. The consultant will be part of a roster of qualified emergency consultants who can be rapidly deployed during crises such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, and disease outbreaks. The role involves providing technical support in WASH service delivery, outbreak response, information management, and coordination" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">cluster coordination. The consultant will ensure timely and effective delivery of life-saving interventions across Nepal, focusing on vulnerable populations who are most at risk during emergencies. The position requires a proactive approach to assessing needs, coordinating with local stakeholders, and implementing WASH services that are culturally appropriate and effective in protecting health and dignity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of tasks including: conducting damage and needs assessments of WASH services in affected areas; developing WASH response and recovery plans; coordinating with local governments and partners for timely WASH responses; designing and implementing safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services; conducting hygiene promotion activities; developing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials; ensuring timely distribution of WASH supplies; monitoring the quality and progress of WASH interventions; preparing situation reports and donor updates; and collaborating with other sectors to provide comprehensive support to affected populations. The consultant will also be expected to provide technical feedback and recommendations to improve implementation and accountability.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Civil/Environmental Engineering, Environmental Management, Public Health Engineering, or a closely related technical field. An advanced degree is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should have at least three years of professional experience in humanitarian response, WASH programming, or public health/outbreak response, with demonstrated experience in rapid needs assessments and damage assessments of WASH facilities during emergencies. Familiarity with local contexts and experience working with local governments is highly desired. Strong understanding of humanitarian WASH interventions and the ability to design, implement, and monitor WASH response activities are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Civil/Environmental Engineering, Environmental Management, or Public Health Engineering. An advanced degree is preferred and may enhance a candidate's application. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in the technical aspects of WASH services and emergency response.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience in humanitarian response, WASH programming, or public health. Experience should include supporting rapid needs assessments and damage assessments of WASH facilities during emergencies, as well as working closely with local stakeholders to relay critical information. Familiarity with local governance structures and emergency response mechanisms is highly beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in both Nepali and English (written and spoken) is required for this position. High proficiency in Nepali is essential for effective communication with community members, government officials, and partners. The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in both languages is crucial for the success of the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is focused on emergency response and may require rapid deployment to affected areas. Candidates should indicate their preferred area of technical expertise in their applications and include proposed professional fees in Nepalese currency. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from under-represented ethnic groups and individuals with disabilities. The organization adheres to strict standards of conduct and has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination and abuse.