Urbanist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established to promote sustainable development of human settlements and policies conducive to adequate housing for all. It operates globally, focusing on urban development and housing issues, and has a significant presence in Brazil through its Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) based in Rio de Janeiro. UN-Habitat collaborates with various stakeholders, including government entities, civil society, and the private sector, to implement the Habitat Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization emphasizes participatory approaches to urban planning and development, aiming to transform cities into safer, more inclusive, and resilient environments. UN-Habitat has expanded its portfolio in Brazil, working with local governments to formulate and implement effective urban policies that address social and environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Urbanist position is crucial for supporting the implementation of urban development projects in Brazil, specifically focusing on the Izidora neighborhood in Belo Horizonte. The Urbanist will work closely with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams to ensure the successful execution of the project aimed at improving municipal infrastructure and social housing options. The role involves reviewing architectural designs, conducting technical analyses, and providing guidance to project teams. The Urbanist will also be responsible for preparing reports and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure that the project aligns with the principles of sustainability and resilience as outlined in the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to enhancing the living conditions of urban populations in vulnerable areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Urbanist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: reviewing and analyzing architectural and urbanistic designs, preparing technical reports, proposing changes to ensure quality standards, and providing technical guidance to project teams. The Urbanist will also collaborate with team members to prepare necessary technical documents, participate in meetings, and perform additional technical support tasks as required. Specific outputs include evaluating projects for the Izidora neighborhood, analyzing project deliveries, and ensuring compliance with quality standards throughout the project lifecycle. The Urbanist will be expected to complete various products, including macroplans, urban designs, and compatibility studies, with specific delivery timelines outlined in the project plan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree in Architecture and Urbanism or related fields, or a bachelor's degree in the same fields combined with four years of relevant experience. A minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in urbanistic or social housing projects in Brazil is required, with experience in urbanization of informal settlements being desirable. Familiarity with UN systems and processes is also preferred. Strong computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office and CAD software, are essential for this role. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, planning and organizational skills, effective communication abilities, and a capacity for teamwork in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a postgraduate degree (Lato Sensu or Stricto Sensu) in Architecture and Urbanism or a related field. Alternatively, candidates may qualify with a bachelor's degree in Architecture and Urbanism along with four additional years of relevant experience. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of urban planning and design, particularly in the context of informal settlements and social housing.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in urbanistic or social housing projects, specifically within Brazil. Experience in the urbanization of informal settlements is highly desirable, as is previous experience working within the UN system. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing urban development projects and collaborating with various stakeholders to achieve project goals.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, given the local context and the need for effective communication with stakeholders. Additionally, working knowledge of English or Spanish is desirable, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and Spanish is the working language of the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
This position is based locally in Brazil, and only nationals or permanent visa holders may apply. The contract is for eleven months, with the possibility of extension subject to funding and performance. The consultant will be compensated according to the UNOPS Salary Scale, with a total net amount of BRL 25,271, distributed across various deliverables. The consultant must also be available for travel within Brazil as required by the Head of the Brazil Office, with travel expenses covered by UN-Habitat. All applications must be submitted in English and include specific documentation as outlined in the job posting.