Shelter Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that has been providing assistance to people forced to flee since its establishment. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff members, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, delivering life-saving and long-term support to millions of individuals each year. NRC has been active in Myanmar since 2008, following the devastation caused by Cyclone Nargis, and has developed a strong reputation for its technical skills and effective program delivery. The organization focuses on addressing the needs of vulnerable populations affected by conflict and displacement, operating across three geographical areas in Myanmar and maintaining a diverse portfolio of partnerships with local and international organizations. NRC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility for their roles.

Job Overview:
The Shelter Specialist position at NRC is a critical role that involves the technical development of the Shelter core competency, providing strategic direction, and ensuring quality assurance in shelter-related projects. The role holder will be responsible for mentoring, training, and building the capacity of staff within the organization. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, a proven track record in developing and integrating effective strategies, and the ability to collaborate with various stakeholders while fostering constructive relationships. The Shelter Specialist will play a key role in shaping the organization's approach to shelter interventions, ensuring that they are aligned with the needs of affected communities and adhere to technical standards and donor priorities. This position requires a deep understanding of the humanitarian context in Myanmar and the ability to navigate complex and volatile environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Shelter Specialist will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and implementing shelter strategies and technical guidance; creating macro logical framework approaches for shelter projects; leading fundraising efforts and developing proposals, budgets, and donor reports; identifying trends, technical standards, and donor priorities relevant to shelter interventions; ensuring technical quality and synergies in project implementation; providing technical direction and support for project execution; extracting key learnings from projects and incorporating them into development processes; building the capacity of technical staff through training and mentorship; and fostering stakeholder relations, networking, and partnership development. The role also involves participating in forums, clusters, and working groups to represent NRC's interests and contribute to collaborative efforts in the sector.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Shelter Specialist position must possess a strong background in shelter expertise, particularly within humanitarian or recovery contexts. They should have experience in market analysis, cash-based interventions, and market-based programming. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate exposure to complex and volatile contexts, showcasing their ability to adapt and respond effectively to challenging situations. Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory, as effective communication is essential for this role. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from individuals who may not meet every single requirement but are passionate about the work and possess relevant skills and experiences.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Shelter Specialist position typically includes a degree in a relevant field such as architecture, civil engineering, humanitarian studies, or a related discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in shelter and settlement programming, disaster management, or related areas may be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the principles and practices of shelter design and implementation in humanitarian settings.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience in the humanitarian sector, particularly in shelter programming. A minimum of several years of relevant work experience is expected, with a focus on technical roles that involve project management, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement. Experience working in Myanmar or similar contexts is highly desirable, as it provides valuable insights into the local challenges and needs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. While English proficiency is essential, knowledge of local languages spoken in Myanmar may be considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with affected communities and local partners.

Additional Notes:
The Shelter Specialist position is based in Yangon, Myanmar, and is offered on a 12-month contract basis. The role may require approximately 25% travel to various project sites within the country. The position is classified as Grade 9 in NRC's National Salary Scale, which comes with a competitive compensation and benefits package. NRC is committed to equal opportunities and aims to maintain diversity in its workforce, encouraging applications from individuals of various backgrounds, including women and underrepresented groups. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, innovation, and responsibility, providing employees with opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their work and the communities they serve.