UN Volunteer Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is a global organization dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of children. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, working to ensure that every child has a fair chance in life. The organization focuses on various areas, including education, healthcare, nutrition, and protection from violence and exploitation. In Ukraine, UNICEF has been actively involved in humanitarian response efforts, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict, aiming to support children and families through recovery and resilience-building initiatives.

Job Overview:
The UN Volunteer Specialist position is designed to provide essential technical and operational support to UNICEF's Construction Unit program in Ukraine. The primary focus of this role is to assist in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of solarization and backup power projects. These projects are crucial for enhancing the resilience of public services that cater to children and families, particularly in sectors such as education, healthcare, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). The UN Volunteer will play a vital role in ensuring that critical public facilities can maintain their operations despite ongoing power disruptions and infrastructure challenges. This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including contractors, engineers, and local authorities, to ensure the successful execution of renewable energy solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The UN Volunteer Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the Construction Specialist. Key responsibilities include conducting technical assessments of facilities to evaluate their suitability for solar photovoltaic (PV) and backup power systems. This involves analyzing load demand, site conditions, and feasibility. The volunteer will also assist in the preparation and review of technical documentation, including specifications, Bills of Quantities, and scopes of work. Additionally, the role involves reviewing contractor proposals and methodologies, participating in site visits to monitor installation quality and compliance with safety standards, and supporting the commissioning and testing of installed systems. The volunteer will be responsible for monitoring the operational performance of these systems, preparing technical reports, and coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure effective communication and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the UN Volunteer Specialist position should possess a strong technical background in renewable energy systems, particularly solar PV technology. They should have experience in project management and technical assessments, as well as a solid understanding of construction practices and standards. Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret technical documentation are essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as the role requires collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders. A commitment to UNICEF's values of care, respect, integrity, trust, accountability, and sustainability is also crucial.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in engineering, renewable energy, environmental science, or a related field is required for this position. Advanced degrees or certifications in renewable energy systems or project management would be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the principles of sustainable development and energy efficiency, as well as familiarity with international standards and best practices in the field.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 2-3 years of relevant professional experience in the field of renewable energy, particularly in solar energy projects. Experience working in humanitarian or development contexts, especially in challenging environments, is highly desirable. Familiarity with the specific challenges and needs of public services in Ukraine, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict, will be an asset. Candidates should also demonstrate a proven track record of successful project implementation and stakeholder engagement.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all technical documentation and reporting will be conducted in English. Proficiency in Ukrainian or Russian is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of project implementation. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, depending on the specific context of the projects.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, and the volunteer is responsible for organizing their own accommodation. The contract is full-time and lasts for the duration indicated in the vacancy, with the possibility of extensions based on funding availability and performance. The monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) is USD 1717, which is intended to cover housing, utilities, and living expenses. Additional benefits include a one-time entry lump sum payment of USD 350, medical and life insurance coverage, and various leave entitlements, including annual leave, learning leave, and sick leave. The position does not guarantee renewal of the assignment, and volunteers are expected to adhere to the values and principles of UNICEF throughout their service.