UN Volunteer Specialist in Infrastructure

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the principal UN agency for international development, operating in 170 countries and territories with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities. Established to help countries develop policies, leadership skills, institutional capacities, and resilience to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNDP focuses on sustainable development, democratic governance, and peacebuilding. The organization advocates for change and assists countries in accessing the knowledge, experience, and resources necessary for individuals to build better lives.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Specialist in Infrastructure will be part of the Nature, Climate, Environment, and Resilience Unit (UNCER) and will implement the 'Green Horizon' portfolio. This role involves close collaboration with relevant ministries, regional governors, local authorities, and community stakeholders. The specialist will be responsible for technical support in infrastructure projects, ensuring effective decision-making and partnership development. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying infrastructure needs, conducting technical studies, and providing recommendations. The specialist will also oversee the quality assurance of infrastructure works, ensuring compliance with project timelines and standards, and contribute to the development of sustainable infrastructure management systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the UN Volunteer Specialist in Infrastructure include:

• Developing technical documents for decision-making and partnership establishment regarding infrastructure projects.
• Providing technical support in identifying and selecting infrastructure works.
• Conducting and documenting technical studies and cost estimates for identified infrastructure projects, along with necessary recommendations.
• Reviewing and approving construction plans, calculations, and other related documents prepared by service providers.
• Transferring skills to team members, partners, and target groups regarding infrastructure themes.
• Initiating, supervising, and monitoring rehabilitation and new construction works according to established needs and timelines.
• Ensuring quality assurance of infrastructure works, including defining and validating execution schedules, inspecting work execution, and supervising all stages of project realization.
• Collaborating with stakeholders to establish management, maintenance, and sustainability systems for infrastructure.
• Supporting the procurement process for selecting service providers in infrastructure. 1
• Providing technical advice to UNDP, its projects, and partners to enhance synergy and effectiveness of interventions. 1
• Contributing to knowledge development and documentation of lessons learned and best practices in the field of specialization. 1
• Ensuring compliance with social and environmental standards related to infrastructure implementation. 1
• Performing any other tasks necessary for the smooth operation of activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate integrity by adhering to UN values and standards. They should possess a strong commitment to the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP. The ideal candidate will have the ability to work in a culturally diverse environment, showing respect for differences in gender, religion, race, nationality, and sensitivity. Rigor in work, availability, teamwork skills, and initiative are essential qualities for this position.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in civil engineering, architecture, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in infrastructure development or project management may be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in infrastructure development, project management, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations or in a development context is highly desirable. Familiarity with UNDP's operational procedures and standards will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as it is the working language in Madagascar. Proficiency in English is an asset, and knowledge of local languages may be beneficial for community engagement.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Ambovombe, a region where living conditions can be challenging due to high costs and drought. Volunteers are advised not to bring family members due to these conditions. However, suitable accommodation for a single person is available. Volunteers will receive a well-being differential to compensate for the difficult living conditions. For more information on allowances and benefits, candidates can refer to the UNV calculator and the conditions of service for UN Volunteers.