Senior Shelter Assistant

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

• The organization is dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries, employing more than 18,000 staff members worldwide. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR also works to ensure that refugees can access education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities, and it advocates for their rights and protection.

Job Overview:
The Senior Shelter Assistant plays a crucial role in the implementation of shelter and infrastructure projects within the Area of Responsibility (AoR). This position requires the incumbent to assist in conducting comprehensive sectoral needs assessments in collaboration with other sectors such as protection, community services, and public health. The Senior Shelter Assistant is responsible for managing day-to-day operations of construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring that they align with the evolving needs of the displaced population and host communities. The role involves providing technical assistance in the implementation and monitoring of projects, ensuring that they adhere to UNHCR and national standards. The incumbent must also consider urban planning strategies and sustainable practices in shelter responses, minimizing risks associated with overcrowding and unhygienic conditions. The Senior Shelter Assistant reports to a more senior shelter colleague and is accountable for performing duties in accordance with UNHCR's regulatory framework and core values.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Shelter Assistant include: assisting in the preparation and review of shelter needs assessments; managing UNHCR construction and infrastructure projects; ensuring compliance with established standards; coordinating with relevant stakeholders; providing technical assistance in shelter and infrastructure development; preparing bid documents; evaluating bids; and identifying and managing risks. The incumbent must also collaborate with other sectors to synchronize shelter implementation and assist implementing partners with technical issues. Additionally, the Senior Shelter Assistant is expected to perform other related duties as required, ensuring that all activities are conducted in a manner that prioritizes the needs of the most vulnerable persons of concern.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 1 year of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Essential qualifications include relevant working experience with international organizations, good technical knowledge of construction standards, and familiarity with UNHCR shelter standards. Desirable qualifications include knowledge of AutoCAD, site surveying, and experience in conducting feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments. The candidate must possess strong functional skills in AutoCAD for settlement planning, topographic surveying, and WASH-related technologies, as well as computer literacy.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a High School Diploma or equivalent, with a preference for those holding a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related fields. Certifications in relevant areas such as Civil Engineering or Architecture are essential for this position.

Experience:
The Senior Shelter Assistant should have at least 2 years of relevant experience in civil and electrical infrastructure, preferably with an NGO or UN agency in Northeast Syria. Experience with UNHCR is considered an added advantage. The candidate should demonstrate a strong understanding of construction standards and practices, particularly in relation to shelter typologies utilized in refugee responses.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along 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 a desirable asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA5 category and is not home-based. The target start date for this position is April 1, 202

• The role is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment with a hardship level classified as E (most hardship). UNHCR encourages qualified female applicants and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo a written test and/or oral interview.