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. With a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries. The organization focuses on equity, directing resources to the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. In Venezuela, UNICEF has been active since 1967, expanding its support through a formal office established in 1991 and collaborating with national and subnational authorities, civil society, academia, and the private sector to improve the lives of children and adolescents.

Job Overview:
The position of Voluntario/a de Agua, Saneamiento e Higiene at UNICEF involves supporting critical WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs in Venezuela, particularly in the Zulia state. The volunteer will work under the direct supervision of the WASH Officer, contributing to the monitoring and implementation of WASH activities in communities, schools, and health centers. This role is crucial for ensuring that UNICEF's interventions are effective and that they meet the needs of vulnerable populations. The volunteer will be part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with specialists and consultants to enhance the quality of water and sanitation services, thereby improving health outcomes for children and families.

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

• Monitoring and reporting on WASH projects, including weekly progress reports, tracking the quality and timeliness of reports from implementing partners, and ensuring proper use and distribution of WASH supplies.
• Participating in technical visits to verify the progress and quality of WASH installations, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
• Supporting community processes for promoting safe water, hygiene, and sanitation, and engaging with community leaders and committees for feedback on ongoing interventions.
• Assisting in the planning and development of training agendas for local partners and community committees, facilitating training sessions on UNICEF's WASH approach and best hygiene practices.
• Identifying technical and logistical bottlenecks in WASH activities and proposing solutions, while also analyzing risks related to climate conditions and local contexts that may affect project timelines.
• Supporting the design and updating of monitoring schedules for WASH implementations and ensuring quality control during project execution, adhering to established standards and specifications.
• Contributing to community management processes around WASH infrastructures and performing any other related tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. They should demonstrate adaptability and flexibility in challenging contexts, as well as a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values. Experience in community engagement and capacity building is highly desirable, along with a solid understanding of WASH principles and practices.

Educational Background:
A degree in public health, environmental science, social sciences, or a related field is required. Additional training or certifications in WASH or community development will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 1-2 years of relevant experience in WASH programs, community development, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations or NGOs is preferred, particularly in emergency or development contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in Venezuela. Proficiency in English is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with international teams and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position based in Maracaibo, Venezuela, with a monthly allowance of 1299 USD. The volunteer will be responsible for their accommodation and living arrangements. The role may involve challenges related to transportation and access to basic services, but UNICEF provides support to mitigate these issues. The contract duration and specific terms of service will be outlined in the volunteer agreement.