Chief, Environment Division

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 194

• Its primary mission is to provide assistance and protection to approximately 5.8 million registered Palestine refugees. UNRWA operates in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip, focusing on helping these refugees achieve their full potential in human development while awaiting a just resolution to their situation. The agency is the largest UN operation in the Middle East, employing over 30,000 staff members and is funded almost entirely through voluntary contributions from UN member states, regional bodies, and private entities. UNRWA's services include education, healthcare, relief and social services, camp infrastructure improvement, microfinance, and emergency assistance. The organization is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of one of the most vulnerable communities in the world, and it actively seeks individuals who share this commitment to join its workforce.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Environment Division at UNRWA is a senior position that reports directly to the Director of Infrastructure and Camp Improvement (D1). The incumbent is responsible for overseeing a diverse team of professional and general services staff, ensuring that the division's operations align with the agency's overall environmental and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) strategies. This role involves directing and organizing the division's activities, financial matters, and operational plans, while also coordinating with other senior staff to integrate environmental considerations into their work. The Chief will lead the development and updating of agency-wide policies and frameworks related to environmental sustainability and WASH, ensuring that these strategies are effectively communicated and implemented across various programs and departments. The position requires innovative thinking to address environmental challenges, particularly in relation to climate change, and involves building partnerships with other UN agencies, NGOs, and stakeholders to promote sustainable practices. The Chief will also oversee the assessment of infrastructure needs in refugee camps, ensuring that solutions are effectively integrated into the agency's overall plans, thereby improving services for refugees.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of the Environment Division will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Directing and organizing the division's operations and financial matters in alignment with departmental plans on environment and WASH.
• Coordinating with senior staff to ensure environmental aspects are included in their work plans.
• Leading the development and updating of agency-wide environmental and WASH policies and strategies.
• Developing manuals, guidelines, and tools for environmental management and ensuring compliance with these standards across programs.
• Implementing innovative proposals to enhance environmental sustainability and address climate change challenges.
• Reviewing and clearing the Agency-wide Solid Waste Management framework and supporting field-specific strategies.
• Assessing infrastructure needs in refugee camps and providing effective solutions to improve services.
• Overseeing technical support and clearance of environmental and social impact assessments and related documents.
• Developing capacity-building programs for staff in environmental and WASH areas. 1
• Participating in departmental strategy preparation and project development for environmental improvements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in environmental engineering, environmental science, or a related field. Additionally, at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in environmental or sanitation engineering is required, including construction, project planning, management, and contract administration. A minimum of five years of this experience should be at a senior supervisory level. Candidates should also have experience in environmental sustainability, environmental and social management, and health and safety (ESHS). Proficiency in strategy and policy development is essential, along with advanced computer skills in applications such as Microsoft Project and MS-Office. The ability to conduct training courses is desirable, as is knowledge of the Middle East environment and cultures. Experience managing engineering projects in developing countries and familiarity with UNRWA’s financial and administrative systems are also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) from an accredited institution in environmental engineering, environmental science, or a closely related field. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental issues and for developing effective strategies and policies to address them within the context of UNRWA's mission.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically at least ten years of progressively responsible and relevant experience in the field of environmental or sanitation engineering. This experience should encompass various aspects such as construction, project planning, management, and contract administration. Importantly, at least five of those years must be at a senior supervisory level, demonstrating the ability to lead teams and manage complex projects. Candidates should also have a strong background in environmental sustainability and health and safety practices, as well as experience in developing and formulating strategies and policies.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Arabic is mandatory, with both languages required at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also recognized as a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, but English and Arabic are the primary languages necessary for this role. Candidates must demonstrate their language skills according to the UN Language Framework, ensuring effective communication within the agency and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a Fixed Term Appointment for one year, with the possibility of extension based on funding availability, satisfactory performance, and ongoing need. The role is classified at Grade 20, with a monthly basic salary of JD 1462.30, plus a special occupational allowance of 89.83% of the basic salary. Additional benefits include a monthly Provident Fund contribution, compulsory medical insurance, 30 days of annual leave, and a dependency allowance if applicable. Employees are entitled to sick leave, maternity leave, and paternity leave as specified. The vacancy is open to both internal and external candidates, but only those residing in Amman and authorized to work in Jordan are eligible to apply. The agency will not facilitate work permits, and candidates may be required to travel within the agency's operational areas. The recruitment process includes an assessment exercise and competency-based interviews, and only fully completed applications submitted through UNRWA's online system will be considered.