Assistant Shelter Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which is dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. Established in 1950, UNHCR has been at the forefront of humanitarian efforts, providing assistance and support to millions of people worldwide. The organization operates in over 130 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure that those in need receive the necessary support and protection. UNHCR's mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. The organization is committed to upholding the dignity and rights of all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Shelter Officer position is crucial for supporting the humanitarian shelter response for internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, and asylum seekers in Kassala state, Sudan. The role involves working closely with the Head of Sub-Office at UNHCR's Sub-Office in Kassala, where the incumbent will be responsible for the design and implementation of construction and general infrastructure projects. This includes overseeing day-to-day operations to ensure compliance with established standards and procedures. The Assistant Shelter Officer will also develop Bills of Quantities (BoQs), layouts, and technical specifications, contributing to the monitoring of shelter and infrastructure activities targeting refugees and IDPs. The ideal candidate should possess knowledge and experience in implementing shelter and infrastructure projects in humanitarian contexts, demonstrating a solid understanding of the humanitarian project cycle, technical assessments, and reporting. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, NGOs, and government authorities, to ensure effective coordination and response to the needs of the displaced population.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Shelter Officer will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Assisting in the development and periodic updating of a suitable shelter approach within the Area of Responsibility (AoR), considering various factors such as age, gender, culture, climate, and environmental protection.
• Participating in comprehensive sectoral needs assessments in collaboration with other relevant sectors, ensuring that the shelter needs of the most vulnerable persons of concern (POC) are prioritized.
• Overseeing all construction and infrastructure projects within the AoR, ensuring compliance with UNHCR and national standards throughout the project cycle.
• Monitoring and following up on the design and construction of infrastructure and facilities, ensuring they are technically sound and approved by relevant authorities.
• Supporting implementing partners on technical shelter and settlement issues, ensuring compliance with global and national strategies.
• Participating in coordination meetings with stakeholders to ensure UNHCR's interests are represented and disseminating information effectively.
• Collaborating with the Programme team to review technical components of Project Partnership Agreements related to construction and infrastructure projects.
• Conducting technical evaluations of bids and ensuring quality control of shelter and infrastructure products during implementation.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires several essential qualifications, including:

• A strong academic background in civil engineering, architecture, or a related discipline.
• Hands-on technical support experience in emergency assistance delivery and relief operations.
• Knowledge of SPHERE standards and the ability to utilize basic survey equipment, digital cameras, GPS receivers, and computer equipment.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and familiarity with UNHCR's settlement planning toolkit.
• Understanding of the humanitarian architecture and UNHCR's operational modalities.
• Strong drafting and documentation skills, along with computer literacy.
• Familiarity with CAD 3D modeling for settlement analysis and shelter coordination.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a relevant undergraduate degree in fields such as Architecture, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Construction Management. A graduate degree or doctorate in a related field is also acceptable, particularly for those with no prior experience. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the technical aspects of shelter and infrastructure projects in humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree. For those with a graduate degree or doctorate, no prior experience is necessary. Essential experience includes hands-on technical support in emergency assistance delivery and relief operations, as well as knowledge of shelter and infrastructure project implementation in humanitarian settings. Familiarity with the humanitarian project cycle and technical assessments is also crucial.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. This ensures effective communication with stakeholders and the displaced population.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA8 category and is not remote. The target start date for the role is January 1, 2026, and the application deadline is December 16, 202

• The position is categorized under a non-family residential location with a hardship level of E, indicating a challenging working environment. Female candidates are encouraged to apply, reflecting UNHCR's commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.