Voluntario/a de Agua, Saneamiento e Higiene

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of children worldwide. The organization operates in over 190 countries, focusing on health, education, and protection for the most disadvantaged children. In Venezuela, UNICEF has been active since 1967, expanding its support through a formal office established in 199

• The organization collaborates with national and local authorities, civil society, academia, and the private sector to implement programs aimed at reducing maternal and child mortality and improving conditions for children and adolescents.

Job Overview:
The position of Voluntario/a de Agua, Saneamiento e Higiene at UNICEF involves supporting the implementation and monitoring of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs in communities, schools, and health centers in San Fernando, Apure. The volunteer will work under the direct supervision of the WASH Officer and will be part of a multidisciplinary team. The role emphasizes the importance of equitable access to water and sanitation services, particularly in vulnerable communities. The volunteer will engage in monitoring construction works, promoting safe water and hygiene practices, and strengthening local capacities through training and community mobilization efforts. This position is crucial for ensuring that UNICEF's interventions are effective and sustainable, contributing to the overall mission of improving the lives of children and families in Venezuela.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Voluntario/a include:

• Monitoring and Reporting: Prepare weekly monitoring reports detailing the progress of WASH projects, including physical advancements, executed activities, results, inputs, and alerts. Ensure timely and quality reporting from implementing partners. Monitor the proper use, storage, and distribution of WASH supplies in targeted areas. Conduct field visits to verify the quality and progress of WASH works, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Supervise WASH facilities in various community settings and support community management processes.
• Community Promotion: Facilitate community processes for promoting safe water, hygiene, and sanitation integrated with construction interventions. Engage with community leaders and committees to gather feedback on ongoing projects. Support community mobilization efforts for the sustainability of WASH infrastructures.
• Capacity Building: Assist in planning and developing training agendas for implementing partners and community committees. Facilitate training sessions on UNICEF's WASH approach and best hygiene practices. Provide technical support to enhance local capacities for community monitoring of WASH projects.
• Evaluation and Analysis: Identify technical, logistical, or community bottlenecks in WASH project implementation and propose solutions. Analyze risks related to climatic conditions and local access that may impact project timelines.
• Technical Supervision and Quality Assurance: Support the design and update of monitoring schedules for WASH implementations. Conduct quality control and technical support during WASH project execution, ensuring compliance with standards. Promote adherence to Sphere standards and UNICEF's Core Commitments for Children, especially in emergencies. Contribute to strengthening community management processes around WASH infrastructures.
• Additional Tasks: Perform any other related activities as assigned by the supervisor based on the needs of the WASH program in San Fernando, Apure.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical and organizational skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team and engage with diverse stakeholders. A proactive approach to problem-solving and adaptability to changing circumstances are essential. The volunteer should demonstrate a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, including respect, integrity, and accountability. Experience in community engagement and capacity building is highly valued, as is familiarity with WASH programs and practices.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as public health, environmental science, social sciences, or a related discipline is required. Additional training or certifications in WASH-related areas will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the principles of community development and public health.

Experience:
The position requires prior experience in community development, public health, or WASH-related projects. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to work in challenging environments and engage effectively with local communities. Experience in monitoring and evaluation of projects is also beneficial, as well as familiarity with UNICEF's operational frameworks and standards.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in the region. Proficiency in English is desirable but not required. Knowledge of local dialects or languages may be an advantage in community engagement.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position based in San Fernando, Apure, Venezuela. The volunteer will be responsible for their accommodation and living arrangements. The monthly allowance for this position is 1299 USD, along with a pre-assignment allowance and a final assignment allowance upon completion of the contract. The volunteer will also receive medical, dental, and life insurance coverage. The role is full-time and may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate community needs.