Volunteer Designer for Water Transport Cart

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is a global organization dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of every child. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, focusing on the most disadvantaged children and families. The organization's mission is to ensure that all children have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential without discrimination. UNICEF's work is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, emphasizing equity and the need to address inequalities in health, education, and protection.

Job Overview:
The position involves designing a water transport cart specifically for school use in Madagascar, aimed at facilitating the collection of water by students. The cart is intended to be user-friendly, durable, and easy to produce locally. The designer will be responsible for creating 2D dimensioned drawings and 3D visualizations that are clear and practical for local technicians to replicate. The design must prioritize child-friendly ergonomics, ensuring that it is safe and comfortable for children to use. The project will be executed in two phases: the initial design for prototype construction and subsequent revisions based on field feedback to ensure the final product meets the needs of the users effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop 2D technical drawings that are dimensioned and suitable for local fabrication.
• Create 3D visualizations to aid in understanding the design.
• Ensure the design is practical, clear, and easy to replicate using locally available materials.
• Focus on child-friendly ergonomics, including appropriate height and handle positioning.
• Conduct initial design for prototype construction and field testing.
• Revise the design based on feedback from field testing to improve functionality and usability.
• Provide key design specifications, including dimensions, structure, wheel and axle configuration, and jerrycan layout.
• Recommend basic materials for construction.
• Prepare a finalized design package that includes updated drawings and specifications, as well as clarified construction details for potential larger-scale production.

Required Qualifications:

• Proficiency in design software for creating 2D and 3D models (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar).
• Strong understanding of ergonomics, particularly in designing for children.
• Experience in product design or engineering, particularly in creating functional and user-friendly designs.
• Ability to communicate design concepts clearly and effectively.
• Familiarity with local materials and construction methods in Madagascar is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving skills and creativity in design.

Educational Background:
A degree in industrial design, mechanical engineering, or a related field is preferred. Candidates with relevant experience and a strong portfolio of design work may also be considered, even if they do not hold a formal degree.

Experience:
Previous experience in product design, particularly in creating designs for children or educational tools, is highly desirable. Experience working in developing countries or with local fabrication processes will be an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate a history of successful project completion and the ability to work collaboratively with local technicians and stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as the project will be conducted in Madagascar. Proficiency in English is also beneficial, especially for understanding technical documentation and communicating with international teams. Knowledge of local languages may be an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and the duration of the contract is not specified. The role is focused on part-time engagement, allowing flexibility in working hours. The position may involve international collaboration, and candidates should be prepared to adapt to local conditions and cultural contexts. Compensation details are not provided, as this is a volunteer role.