UN Volunteer - WASH Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the UNHCR was established on 14 December 1950 by the UN General Assembly. The agency is mandated to lead and coordinate international action to protect refugees and resolve refugee problems worldwide. Its primary purpose is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees. The UNHCR strives to ensure that everyone can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another State, with the option to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. The organization operates in numerous countries around the globe, focusing on the protection and support of refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer - WASH Coordinator will play a crucial role in supporting the coordination of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in Kakuma, Kenya. This position involves working closely with various stakeholders, including the County Government, UN-Habitat, and other humanitarian agencies, to assess and improve urban water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions. The coordinator will be responsible for implementing the Water Supply Transition Plan, ensuring that WASH services transition from UN and humanitarian agencies to government-owned systems. The role requires a strong focus on community engagement, ensuring that persons of concern (PoC) are consulted during all stages of planning and implementation. The coordinator will also monitor and evaluate WASH programs to ensure they meet UNHCR and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) standards, providing evidence-based recommendations for improvements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UN Volunteer - WASH Coordinator include:

• Supporting WASH coordination among partners in line with the KISEDP structures.
• Assessing the current urban water, sanitation, and hygiene conditions in the Municipality and implementing the Water Supply Transition Plan.
• Facilitating detailed assessments of urban water supply systems and providing technical recommendations for rehabilitation.
• Strengthening sanitation facilities and waste management systems through the construction and maintenance of latrines and implementing solid waste disposal strategies.
• Addressing gaps in UNHCR funded WASH programs and ensuring priority issues are met.
• Supporting the inclusion of PoC within national SDG 6 development plans.
• Monitoring and evaluating WASH programs against UNHCR and SDG indicators.
• Building the technical capacity of stakeholders through targeted training on WASH best practices.
• Performing other related duties as required, including promoting volunteerism and contributing to UNV publications.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong technical knowledge in WASH services, particularly in urban settings. They should have experience in project management, coordination, and community engagement. The ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including government entities and NGOs, is essential. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are required to assess needs and develop effective solutions. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to the principles of volunteerism and the mission of UNHCR.

Educational Background:
A degree in Environmental Engineering, Public Health, Water Resources Management, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in WASH or humanitarian response are advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the principles and practices of WASH services and their role in refugee and host community contexts.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in WASH coordination or management, preferably in a humanitarian or development context. Experience working with refugees or in conflict-affected areas is highly desirable. Familiarity with UNHCR policies and procedures, as well as experience in monitoring and evaluation of WASH programs, will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of Kiswahili or other local languages is an advantage, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kakuma, Kenya, which is classified as a non-family duty station with challenging living conditions. The role is a full-time volunteer position, and candidates should be prepared for a hardship environment. The UNHCR provides accommodation for staff, and living conditions may vary. Candidates should be aware of the health requirements, including mandatory vaccinations, and should be prepared for limited medical facilities and evacuation opportunities.