Shelter Cluster Chair

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization dedicated to helping people forced to flee due to conflict and disaster. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ approximately 15,000 staff members who work across 40 countries, providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of individuals each year. In the Middle East, NRC has over 3,000 staff focused on aiding those affected by conflict in countries such as Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Libya, and Palestine. The organization operates with a strong commitment to its core competencies, which include Shelter, Education, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), Livelihoods and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security, and Information Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA). NRC's mission is to ensure that displaced individuals receive the necessary support and resources to rebuild their lives and regain their dignity. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, innovation, and responsibility among its employees, fostering an environment where ideas are welcomed and valued.

Job Overview:
The Shelter Cluster Chair position at NRC Palestine is a critical leadership role responsible for the development and implementation of the Shelter and Non-Food Items (NFI) Cluster program strategy. This role requires close coordination with the Strategic Advisor Group and collaboration with Shelter Cluster partners to ensure that the response is well-resourced, coordinated, and impactful across Palestine. The Shelter Cluster Chair will oversee the emergency shelter and NFI responses, ensuring that the needs of internally displaced persons and those affected by disasters are met effectively. The position demands a strong understanding of the humanitarian context in Palestine, as well as the ability to navigate complex political and social landscapes. The Shelter Cluster Chair will also be responsible for advocating for the interests of the cluster partners and ensuring compliance with NRC policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Shelter Cluster Chair will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Leading the coordination of the shelter response in Palestine, ensuring it is principled, inclusive, and effective.
• Providing regular updates to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director, supported by sub-national coordinators.
• Facilitating guidance from the Strategic Advisory Group (SAG) to ensure strategic direction for the cluster.
• Ensuring efficient information exchange with Shelter Cluster partners regarding shelter issues, situation analysis, planning, and funding processes.
• Representing and advocating for the Shelter Cluster at the National Inter-Cluster Coordination Group (ICCG) and establishing relationships with key coordination fora.
• Supporting sub-cluster coordinators in building relationships at the sub-cluster level.
• Providing practical support, technical guidance, and capacity building to Cluster partners.
• Covering for Gaza coordination in the absence of the Sub-cluster coordinator.
• Ensuring compliance with NRC policies and liaising with management on logistical and safety matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Shelter Cluster Chair position must possess an advanced university degree (Master's) in Civil, Structural, or Architectural Engineering, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in Shelter and Non-Food Items at a managerial level, specifically in emergency and conflict/post-conflict environments. At least 2 of these years should involve experience in cluster co-chairing. Familiarity with the humanitarian architecture, including the cluster system, humanitarian appeals, and response plans, is essential. Proficiency in computer applications such as MS Word and Excel is required, along with a significant understanding of the Middle East's humanitarian political, social, and economic context. Knowledge of the Palestinian context is considered an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's) in a relevant field such as Civil, Structural, or Architectural Engineering. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the technical aspects of shelter and NFI programming and for leading the development of effective strategies in these areas.

Experience:
The position requires a substantial level of experience, specifically a minimum of 10 years in relevant fields, with at least 2 years in a leadership role within a cluster co-chairing capacity. Candidates should have experience working in complex and volatile contexts, particularly in emergency and conflict situations. This experience should include managing high-level engagements with external stakeholders, donors, and diplomats, as well as leading information management units and developing technical guidelines and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for shelter operations.

Languages:
Fluency in the English language is mandatory for this position, both written and verbal. This proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, partners, and team members. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Jerusalem, with travel to Gaza and other areas of operation expected to be approximately 30% of the time. The contract duration is for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal based on performance, need, and funding availability. The salary and benefits are aligned with NRC's Grade 10 on their salary scale. NRC is committed to being an equal opportunities employer, promoting diversity and inclusion without discrimination based on age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization values innovative thinking and encourages all employees to take responsibility and share their ideas.