Shelter/WASH Associate

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

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to providing protection and assistance to those in need. The organization focuses on ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, as well as working towards durable solutions for displaced individuals.

Job Overview:
The Shelter/WASH Associate position is crucial for supporting the implementation of integrated settlement planning projects in refugee settlements, particularly in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. This role involves overseeing the monitoring and enhancement of water and sanitation systems within UNHCR’s areas of responsibility. The Shelter/WASH Associate will work closely with multifunctional teams, including protection, health, and field operations, to ensure that WASH-related activities are effectively implemented. The incumbent will provide technical guidance to partners and stakeholders, review ongoing activities, and strengthen service delivery to persons of concern (PoC). The position emphasizes a community-centered approach to promote engagement and positive behavior change, ensuring compliance with UNHCR’s WASH Manual and relevant standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Shelter/WASH Associate will be responsible for applying UNHCR policies and standards related to WASH and shelter in the area of responsibility (AoR). Key duties include providing technical guidance and support to partners, ensuring quality and sustainability of interventions, and overseeing the design and implementation of WASH infrastructure projects. The incumbent will conduct regular reviews of water and sanitation services, monitor implementation progress, and support evaluations of WASH and shelter interventions. Additionally, the Shelter/WASH Associate will strengthen partner capacity, engage with development partners and government counterparts, and promote community participation throughout the project cycle. The role also involves coordinating with other sectors to ensure integrated programming and providing timely inputs for regular reporting on challenges and progress in service delivery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, water resource development, or a related field. Relevant work experience is essential, with a minimum of 3 years for those with a High School Diploma or 2 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Strong experience in the design, supervision, and monitoring of WASH infrastructure projects, particularly in refugee settings, is required. Candidates should also have expertise in technical design, construction supervision, and knowledge of water and wastewater management processes. Familiarity with public health outcomes related to WASH services is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, water resource development, or a related field. This foundational education is critical for understanding the technical aspects of WASH infrastructure and its implementation in refugee settlements.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience for candidates with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant work experience for those with a Bachelor’s degree or higher. Candidates should have strong experience in the design, supervision, and monitoring of WASH infrastructure projects, particularly in the context of refugee camps. This experience should encompass various aspects of WASH services, including water supply, solid waste management, and community engagement.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is typically required for UN positions. Knowledge of Bengali or Rohingya may be advantageous, given the local context and the population served.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under UNOPS LICA6 and is not remote. The target start date for the role is April 1, 2026, and the application deadline is April 5, 202

• The position is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment, given the humanitarian context in Cox's Bazar. Candidates should be prepared for the hardships associated with working in refugee settings and must demonstrate a commitment to the core values of UNHCR, including professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.