Consultant for Preschool Construction and Rehabilitation

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide. Its mission is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does, focusing on equity for the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. UNICEF operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure that children's rights are upheld and that they have access to essential services such as health care, education, and protection from violence and exploitation.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position is designed to provide technical support, project management, and coordination for the construction and rehabilitation of preschools in the municipalities of Baucau and Bobonaro, East Timor. This role is crucial in ensuring that the construction projects meet quality standards and are completed on time. The consultant will work closely with the Ministry of Education and the selected construction company, overseeing all phases of the project from site assessment to the final completion of the preschools. The consultant will also be responsible for monitoring the progress of the construction, ensuring that it aligns with UNICEF's objectives of improving early childhood education access for vulnerable children in remote areas. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration with various stakeholders to achieve impactful results in the education sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to:

• Providing technical support during all phases of the project, including site assessments and the development of technical documents.
• Supporting the procurement process and monitoring the construction works from initiation to closure.
• Managing the construction contract and ensuring overall project management and coordination.
• Collaborating with UNICEF programs and coordinating with government counterparts to monitor construction projects and ensure quality assurance.
• Engaging with local communities to promote awareness and support for the preschool initiatives.
• Reporting on project progress and challenges to UNICEF and relevant stakeholders.
• Ensuring compliance with UNICEF's standards and guidelines throughout the project lifecycle.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in project management, particularly in the construction or education sectors. They should have experience working with international organizations, government agencies, and local communities. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Familiarity with UNICEF's mission and objectives, particularly in relation to early childhood education, is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to promoting equity and inclusion in education.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, architecture, project management, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred. Candidates should have formal training in project management methodologies and practices, as well as knowledge of early childhood education principles and practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience in project management, with a focus on construction and rehabilitation projects. Experience working in the education sector, particularly in early childhood education, is highly advantageous. Familiarity with the local context in East Timor and previous experience working with UNICEF or similar organizations will be considered a strong asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Tetum or Portuguese is considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on project needs and funding availability. This position is full-time and may require travel to remote areas within East Timor. The consultant will be expected to adhere to UNICEF's core values of care, respect, integrity, trust, and accountability, and to demonstrate core competencies such as self-awareness, collaboration, partnership building, innovation, strategic thinking, and results-driven performance. Compensation and benefits will be commensurate with experience and in line with UNICEF's policies.