Shelter Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. The organization aims to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it works to promote durable solutions for displaced populations.

Job Overview:
The Shelter Associate plays a crucial role in supporting comprehensive sectoral needs assessments in collaboration with various sectors such as protection, community services, public health, and WASH. The position involves gathering both quantitative and qualitative data to understand the needs and living conditions of displaced populations and host communities. The Shelter Associate is responsible for assisting in the daily operations of construction and infrastructure projects within the Area of Responsibility (AoR), ensuring compliance with established standards and procedures throughout the project cycle. The role requires close collaboration with technical and non-technical staff from shelter sector members, NGOs, and government authorities. The Shelter Associate will also provide technical assistance in planning, design, and construction monitoring, ensuring that shelter responses are aligned with urban planning strategies and sustainable practices. The position emphasizes minimizing risks such as eviction, overcrowding, and unhygienic conditions while promoting environmentally friendly approaches to shelter delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Shelter Associate's duties include assisting in shelter needs assessments, coordinating with relevant sectors, and ensuring that the beneficiary selection process prioritizes the most vulnerable Persons of Concern (PoC). The incumbent will support the development and updating of shelter strategies, manage construction and infrastructure projects, and ensure compliance with UNHCR and national standards. Responsibilities also include following up on the design and construction of infrastructure projects, coordinating with other sectors to synchronize implementation, and providing technical support to implementing partners. The Shelter Associate will participate in coordination meetings, assist in reviewing technical components of Project Partnership Agreements, and support the preparation and evaluation of bid documents for construction projects. Additionally, the role involves identifying and managing risks, ensuring timely communication with stakeholders, and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Essential qualifications include knowledge of SPHERE standards, experience in developing shelter and settlement needs assessments, and familiarity with basic survey equipment and digital tools. Desirable qualifications include knowledge of UNHCR shelter standards, cultural sensitivity in shelter design, and proficiency in computer graphics and mapping software. Functional skills required for the position include drafting and documentation, computer-assisted design software proficiency, and 3D modeling for settlement analysis.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a certification in Civil Engineering or Architecture. Candidates should possess relevant degrees or certifications that demonstrate their expertise in the field of shelter and infrastructure development.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in housing and infrastructure projects, particularly within the humanitarian sector. Experience in donor relations and presenting on behalf of UNHCR during site visits is also essential. Candidates should have a solid background in cash and direct implementation projects, including contractual management and quality control, as well as experience in data and information management.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and candidates should also be familiar with 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. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA6 category and is not home-based. The target start date for the position is April 1, 202

• The role is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment, as indicated by the hardship level E classification. UNHCR does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates may be required to undergo a written test or oral interview as part of the selection process. The organization strongly encourages qualified female applicants to apply.