Consultant for Mine Action Strategy Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) is a part of the United Nations and is dedicated to addressing the challenges posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war. Established to support humanitarian efforts and promote peace, UNMAS works globally to ensure that affected communities can live in safety and dignity. The organization operates in numerous countries, providing technical expertise and support to national authorities in mine action, which includes clearance, risk education, and victim assistance. UNMAS collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and international organizations, to enhance the effectiveness of mine action programs and to align them with broader development goals.

Job Overview:
The consultant will work under the supervision of the UNMAS Senior Mine Action Advisor to the Resident Coordinator in Ukraine. The primary function of this role is to produce key deliverables that will enhance the operational efficiency of UNMAS Ukraine. This includes conducting a training needs assessment, developing a comprehensive strategy, and creating training courses and curricula tailored to the identified gaps in the national mine action sector. The consultant's work will directly contribute to strengthening the capacity of local authorities and organizations involved in mine action, ensuring that they can effectively address the challenges posed by landmines and explosive remnants of war. The consultant will also be responsible for drafting concept notes and donor proposals to secure funding for these initiatives, thereby ensuring the sustainability of the programs developed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks to fulfill the objectives of the position. These include conducting desk reviews and remote consultations to gather relevant data and insights, performing technical analyses, and drafting reports that review existing program documents and operational plans. The consultant will also assess oversight tools and systems for mine action training projects, providing recommendations to address any implementation challenges. Additionally, the consultant will develop technical briefings and issue-based papers focused on training and human capacity building. Coordination with national mine action authorities and other stakeholders will be essential, as the consultant will facilitate the development of training materials and conduct training sessions for Ukrainian counterparts. Furthermore, the consultant will document good practices and lessons learned to inform future programming and operational planning within UNMAS Ukraine.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a recognized national qualification as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officer or EOD level III certification. An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in social sciences, public administration, international development, humanitarian affairs, or a related field is desirable. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in similar fields combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted. A minimum of 15 years of established expertise in technical training related to weapons and explosive ordnance destruction is required, with a focus on mine action and humanitarian operations. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of international standards and frameworks relevant to mine action, such as the International Mine Action Standards (IMAS).

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as social sciences, public administration, international development, or humanitarian affairs. In cases where candidates possess a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying work experience to be considered. A recognized national qualification as an EOD officer or EOD level III certification is mandatory, and graduation from a military academy or equivalent training is desirable.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of 15 years of experience in technical training, particularly in the areas of weapons and explosive ordnance destruction, mine action, humanitarian operations, and related fields. Experience working with national mine action authorities in Ukraine is essential, as is demonstrated expertise in mine action and EOD operations. Familiarity with Ukrainian National Mine Action Standards is considered a desirable asset.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, as it is one of the official languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, as it is the second working language of the UN. Candidates must be fluent in English to effectively communicate and perform their duties within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is from July 2026 to March 2027, with a total of 85 days allocated for the completion of the deliverables. The position is not associated with any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants for applications, interviews, or training. This position is part of a broader effort to enhance the capacity of the national mine action sector in Ukraine, and the consultant will play a critical role in shaping the strategic direction of UNMAS's initiatives in the region.