Technical Consultant for the Prevention Measures against Drug Use among Children and Youth in Samoa

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency that works in over 190 countries and territories to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development. UNICEF employs a large workforce dedicated to its mission, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support for its employees.

Job Overview:
The position of Technical Consultant is focused on the Project for the Prevention Measures against Drug Use among Children and Youth in Samoa, which is funded by the Government of Japan. This project aims to address the escalating drug crisis in Samoa by strengthening prevention, protection, and response mechanisms for children and adolescents. The consultant will play a crucial role in designing and implementing interventions that include the rehabilitation and establishment of child-friendly service hubs in various community settings such as hospitals and police stations. The consultant will be responsible for conducting facility assessments, engaging with community stakeholders, preparing necessary construction documentation, and advising on effective implementation strategies. This role is vital in ensuring that the project meets its objectives and delivers meaningful outcomes for the children and youth in Samoa.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Consultant will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: conducting thorough assessments of existing facilities to determine their suitability for child-friendly services; facilitating community and stakeholder consultations to gather input and feedback on proposed interventions; preparing detailed construction-related documentation, including plans and specifications; advising on the most suitable modalities for implementing the project components; ensuring that all activities align with UNICEF's safeguarding and PSEA standards; and providing technical expertise in the design and execution of child-friendly spaces. The consultant will also be expected to prepare reports and documentation that detail the progress and outcomes of the project, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of three years of relevant work experience in infrastructure assessment, design, or construction supervision is required. The consultant should demonstrate strong skills in Bill of Quantities (BoQ) preparation, cost estimation, and technical reporting. Experience in conducting community consultations and a commitment to UNICEF's safeguarding standards are essential. Knowledge of child-friendly design principles and community spaces is highly desirable, as is familiarity with public buildings such as schools and clinics.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Civil Engineering, Architecture, or Construction Management. This foundational education is critical for understanding the technical aspects of the role and ensuring that the consultant can effectively contribute to the project's objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of professional experience in areas related to infrastructure assessment, design, or construction supervision. This experience should ideally include work on child-friendly or community spaces, as well as public buildings. Candidates with experience in small-scale rehabilitation works will be particularly well-suited for this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of Samoan is also required. These language skills are essential for effective communication with stakeholders and community members, ensuring that the consultant can engage meaningfully with the local population and facilitate consultations.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this consultancy is set for 9 months, with a working arrangement that is primarily remote, although it may involve trips to Samoa for on-site assessments and consultations. This position has been classified as an elevated risk role for Child Safeguarding purposes, necessitating additional vetting and assessment, including potential criminal background checks. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background. The organization adheres to a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that is incompatible with its objectives, including discrimination and abuse. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and reasonable accommodations will be provided for persons with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.