Consultant for Climate Change Impact Assessment on Children and WASH Services

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and is known for its diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large number of staff globally and is dedicated to creating a culture of belonging and growth, offering attractive compensation and benefits packages.

Job Overview:
The consultant will assess the impacts of climate change on children and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) services in selected local self-governments. The role involves developing actionable recommendations for improving climate resilience, particularly focusing on safe drinking water access during extreme weather conditions. The consultant will adapt UNICEF's global methodology to local contexts, collect and analyze data on climate risks, and engage local authorities in developing climate policies. The consultant will also be responsible for mapping public water sources with the involvement of young volunteers, ensuring that the methodology is tailored to local needs and that the data collected is accurate and actionable. This position requires a strong commitment to improving the lives of children and communities affected by climate change.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Adapt the global UNICEF methodology to the local context and define the scope, framework, and approach for the climate change impact assessment.
• Collect and analyze data on climate risks and WASH conditions to assess the impact of climate change on children’s access to water, sanitation, and hygiene.
• Develop tailored recommendations for improving WASH services and climate resilience, incorporating feedback from local authorities.
• Prepare a final report with findings, risk assessments, and recommendations, and present these to local authorities and stakeholders.
• Develop a methodology for mapping public water sources, including defining parameters and criteria for data collection.
• Train young volunteers on data collection techniques and ensure accurate documentation of findings.
• Analyze collected data and prepare a detailed report on public water sources, including recommendations for improving access and sustainability.

Required Qualifications:
A master’s degree in environmental science, environmental health, public health, public policy, or a related field is required. Candidates must have at least 8 years of experience in the WASH sector, with a focus on climate change, water quality monitoring, and infrastructure sustainability. A strong background in developing environmental and public health policies, as well as experience collaborating with local authorities on WASH initiatives, is essential. Proven expertise in water governance and policy frameworks, including local water registers, is also required. Candidates should have extensive experience in conducting risk assessments related to environmental hazards and their impact on vulnerable populations.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, public health, or public policy. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate change impacts on WASH services and developing effective strategies to address these challenges.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in the WASH sector, particularly focusing on climate change and its implications for water access and sanitation. Experience in training and capacity building, especially with youth and local stakeholders, is highly desirable. Previous experience working with UNICEF or similar organizations is an asset, as is a detailed understanding of the Serbian context regarding climate impacts and water management policies.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Serbian is mandatory, with exceptional analytical and communication skills. The ability to translate technical data into actionable policy recommendations and public presentations is essential. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this consultancy is 11 months, and the working arrangement is home-based. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must adhere to UNICEF's core values and principles.