EC4HD Consultant

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, which is not just a job but a calling. UNICEF is known for its diverse opportunities for professional and personal development, fostering a culture where staff can grow and belong. The organization employs a large number of individuals worldwide, working collaboratively to address global challenges faced by children and communities.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to support NGOs in 10 districts of Zambia by conducting training for Area Pump Minders (APMs), performing household surveys, and ensuring quality assurance for WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure. The consultant will play a crucial role in addressing the needs of children in Zambia, particularly in the context of poverty and its impact on their well-being. The position requires a proactive approach to engage with local communities and stakeholders, ensuring that interventions are effective and sustainable. The consultant will be expected to demonstrate strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams to achieve impactful results.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct training sessions for Area Pump Minders (APMs) to enhance their skills and knowledge in WASH practices.
• Perform household surveys to gather data on water and sanitation conditions in the targeted districts.
• Ensure quality assurance of WASH infrastructure by monitoring and evaluating existing facilities.
• Collaborate with local NGOs and government bodies to implement WASH programs effectively.
• Prepare reports and documentation of training sessions, surveys, and assessments conducted.
• Provide recommendations for improvements in WASH services based on findings from surveys and assessments.
• Engage with community members to raise awareness about the importance of WASH practices.
• Support the development of educational materials related to WASH for community outreach.
• Participate in meetings and workshops to share insights and best practices in WASH programming. 1
• Maintain effective communication with UNICEF and other stakeholders throughout the consultancy period.

Required Qualifications:

• A university degree in Public Health, Environmental Health, Social Sciences, or a related field is required.
• A master's degree in a relevant field is advantageous.
• Strong communication skills in English, both spoken and written.
• Proven ability to work effectively in cross-cultural and multi-cultural settings.
• Experience in delivering high-quality results within expected time frames.
• Familiarity with UNICEF's WASH programs and initiatives.
• Ability to make own arrangements at the district level in Zambia.
• Experience working in rural settings, particularly in Zambia’s Luapula and North-Western Provinces is preferred.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in one of the following fields: public health, social sciences, behavior change communication, sanitary engineering, or another relevant technical field. A master's degree in a related area is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of experience in WASH programming is required. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in similar roles, demonstrating their ability to manage projects effectively and deliver results that align with organizational goals. Experience in rural settings, particularly in Zambia, is highly valued, as it provides insight into the unique challenges faced by communities in these areas.

Languages:
Strong proficiency in English is mandatory, both in spoken and written forms. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zambia would be considered an asset, as it can facilitate better communication and engagement with community members.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position may involve a flexible contract duration, depending on the needs of the project and the availability of funding. The role is expected to be full-time, with a focus on delivering impactful results in the field of WASH. UNICEF is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce, encouraging 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.