UN Volunteer - WASH Systems and Governance

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to promote the rights and well-being of every child. Its mission is to save lives, defend rights, and help children fulfill their potential. UNICEF operates in some of the world's toughest places, focusing on the most disadvantaged children and ensuring that their rights are upheld. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide and collaborates with various partners to mobilize resources and support for children's needs, particularly in areas such as health, education, and protection.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer position within UNICEF focuses on supporting Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) systems and governance in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region. The role is crucial in providing technical assistance for humanitarian WASH programming, which includes emergency preparedness and response, as well as the design and implementation of climate-resilient WASH programs. The volunteer will work closely with UNICEF Country Offices to enhance WASH services, ensuring they are sustainable and effective in disaster-prone areas. The position also involves capacity building and knowledge management, contributing to the development of strategies and learning products that promote innovative approaches in WASH programming. The volunteer will be part of a team that aims to improve the lives of millions of children by ensuring access to safe drinking water and sanitation services.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support Humanitarian WASH programming (50% of the time): Provide technical support for emergency preparedness, response, and coordination in LAC Country Offices. Assist in designing and implementing climate-resilient WASH programs, focusing on risk-informed planning and resilient infrastructure. Strengthen national institutions for operational WASH sector coordination and improve service continuity in vulnerable settings. Facilitate regional WASH coordination, engaging with partners to identify strategic priorities.
• Support in-country WASH Program design, review, and implementation (30%): Monitor UNICEF's WASH capacity and programming needs, organizing quarterly meetings with colleagues. Contribute to the design and oversight of Country Programs in WASH, including the development of key documents and indicators. Provide ad-hoc technical assistance to Country Offices based on UNICEF guidelines.
• Capacity building & Knowledge Management (20%): Develop a regional WASH capacity building strategy, engaging with strategic partners. Prepare WASH learning products and organize peer exchanges to promote knowledge sharing and cross-country learning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong technical knowledge in WASH programming, particularly in humanitarian contexts. They should demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and have the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams. Proficiency in project management and strategic planning is essential, along with a solid understanding of climate resilience in WASH services. Candidates should also exhibit adaptability and flexibility in their approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as public health, environmental science, social sciences, or international development is required. A master's degree in a related discipline is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of professional experience in WASH programming, particularly in humanitarian settings. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or government agencies in the field of water and sanitation is highly desirable. Familiarity with climate-resilient practices and policies in WASH is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Spanish is highly desirable due to the regional focus of the position. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the LAC region would be an asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a UN Volunteer position, which may have specific contract duration and conditions. The role is based in Panama City, which is classified as a family duty station with good living conditions. The position is full-time, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel within the region. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UN Volunteer guidelines.