National Shelter Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has been operational since 2014 in Malawi, focusing on a variety of migration-related issues. The organization collaborates closely with governments, United Nations agencies, and non-governmental organizations to address emergency humanitarian situations. IOM Malawi plays a crucial role in co-leading the Shelter and Camp Coordination & Camp Management (CCCM) cluster, which is responsible for providing technical support to the government in emergency, transition, recovery, and resilient shelter programming. This programming aims to meet both immediate and long-term shelter needs of communities affected by displacement.

Job Overview:
The National Shelter Officer position is pivotal within IOM Malawi, tasked with providing technical support for the planning and construction of shelters and related infrastructure aimed at disaster risk reduction. The role involves working under the supervision of the Chief of Mission and the Shelter Programme Officer, collaborating with various units within IOM Malawi. The officer will engage in site assessments, planning, and the construction of shelters, ensuring that the needs of displaced communities are met effectively. The position also requires participation in meetings and maintaining coordination with local authorities and stakeholders, contributing to the development of best practices and standard operating procedures in shelter management.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Participate in site assessments and planning for the construction of shelters and related infrastructure.
• Assess existing shelters and infrastructure to identify rehabilitation and maintenance needs.
• Develop Bills of Quantities (BOQs) for planned shelters and other infrastructures, facilitating their approval.
• Plan, coordinate, and supervise construction activities at selected sites, ensuring timely completion and adherence to quality standards.
• Maintain effective liaison with local authorities, partners, UN agencies, NGOs, donors, and other stakeholders regarding shelter and infrastructure management.
• Document good practices and lessons learned, contributing to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and concept papers.
• Supervise and provide guidance and training to reporting staff.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, architecture, or other engineering-related fields from an accredited academic institution is required. The candidate must have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in the field.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, architecture, or a related engineering discipline from an accredited institution. This educational background is essential to ensure the candidate has the necessary technical knowledge and skills required for the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have experience in site assessment, planning, and site layout specifically for shelter construction. Additionally, candidates should have experience in designing and supervising the construction of various types of shelters, including communal, transitional, and permanent shelters for internally displaced persons, adhering to sphere standards and applicable government guidelines. Experience working with vulnerable groups such as migrants, refugees, and victims of trafficking is also essential. Prior work experience with international humanitarian organizations or government institutions in a multicultural setting is advantageous, as is experience in training local artisans on Build Back Better and Safer principles.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international context of the organization. Knowledge of local languages may be beneficial for effective communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The job is likely to be full-time, and while the specific contract duration is not mentioned, positions within IOM typically involve working in a dynamic environment that may require adaptability and flexibility. The role may involve international recruitment, given the organization's global presence and the nature of its work in humanitarian settings.