Consultant for Safely Managed Sanitation Action Plan

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission 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 offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a passionate workforce dedicated to serving children and communities worldwide, and it emphasizes a culture of inclusivity and growth.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to provide high-level technical leadership in finalizing Zambia’s Safely Managed Sanitation (SMS) Action Plan. This involves ensuring that the plan aligns with both national and international standards. The consultant will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the sanitation landscape in Zambia, critically review existing policies and strategies, including the Open Defecation Free (ODF) strategy, and provide actionable recommendations for strengthening the sanitation sector. The role also includes developing targeted learning notes, facilitating strategic stakeholder engagements, and providing technical input into the national stakeholder coordination framework to ensure robust representation and support for sanitation initiatives at all levels. This position is crucial for addressing the sanitation challenges faced by children and communities in Zambia, thereby contributing to the overall mission of UNICEF.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current sanitation landscape in Zambia.
• Review existing sanitation policies and strategies, including the ODF strategy, to identify gaps and areas for improvement.
• Develop actionable recommendations for strengthening the sanitation sector in alignment with national and international standards.
• Create targeted learning notes that summarize findings and recommendations for various stakeholders.
• Facilitate strategic stakeholder engagements to gather input and foster collaboration among key players in the sanitation sector.
• Provide technical input into the national stakeholder coordination framework to ensure effective representation and support for sanitation initiatives.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations to communicate findings and recommendations to UNICEF and other stakeholders.
• Collaborate with UNICEF staff and partners to ensure the successful implementation of the SMS Action Plan.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s degree in water, sanitation, hygiene, public health, environmental science, or related fields.
• At least 7 years of experience in water and sanitation programming, with a strong understanding of safely managed sanitation in Zambia’s context.
• Proven experience in policy analysis and development, with excellent analytical and report writing skills.
• Demonstrated experience in strategy formulation and implementation.
• Strong facilitation and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Relevant experience in a UN system agency or organization is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as water, sanitation, hygiene, public health, or environmental science. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the development of the Safely Managed Sanitation Action Plan.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in water and sanitation programming. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the context of safely managed sanitation in Zambia, as well as experience in policy analysis, strategy formulation, and development. Relevant experience in a UN agency or similar organization is highly desirable, as it demonstrates familiarity with international standards and practices in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNICEF and essential for effective communication with stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zambia would be considered an asset, as it may enhance engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is likely to be full-time and may involve a contract duration that aligns with the project timeline for the Safely Managed Sanitation Action Plan. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those from underrepresented groups. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has 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 meet medical clearance requirements.