WASH/IPC Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission 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 serving children and communities globally, emphasizing a culture of belonging and growth.

Job Overview:
The WASH/IPC Coordinator will provide technical leadership and operational coordination for UNICEF’s WASH/IPC response to the Ebola emergency in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This role is crucial in ensuring that UNICEF's interventions are timely, technically sound, and well-coordinated with national protocols and emergency response standards. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of priority WASH/IPC interventions in affected areas, ensuring strong linkages with other response pillars such as surveillance and case management. The position requires adaptability and cultural sensitivity to effectively support vulnerable populations, particularly children and at-risk communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WASH/IPC Coordinator will be responsible for the following duties:

• Provide technical leadership and day-to-day operational coordination for UNICEF’s WASH/IPC response to the Ebola outbreak in Bunia and other affected areas.
• Represent UNICEF in WASH/IPC coordination mechanisms at the provincial level and engage with national coordination structures, health authorities, and partners.
• Support the implementation of UNICEF’s WASH/IPC response strategy, including prioritization of interventions and development of operational plans.
• Coordinate assessments of WASH/IPC needs in health facilities and communities, guiding planning and resource allocation based on findings.
• Oversee implementing partners and field teams to ensure timely and quality delivery of WASH/IPC interventions.
• Ensure effective coordination with other response teams to promote an integrated multisectoral Ebola response.
• Monitor the availability and distribution of critical WASH/IPC supplies and equipment.
• Provide technical guidance and support to health authorities and partners on WASH/IPC standards.
• Prepare concept notes, budgets, and other materials for resource mobilization. 1
• Collect and analyze operational data to monitor progress and inform decision-making. 1
• Promote the integration of accountability and risk management in all WASH/IPC interventions. 1
• Ensure compliance with UNICEF procedures and standards in all activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in public health, environmental health, sanitary engineering, or related fields. A minimum of eight years of progressively responsible professional experience in WASH, public health, or related areas is required, with at least five years in complex humanitarian or public health emergency settings. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of IPC protocols and standards, experience managing teams, and the ability to work under pressure in resource-constrained environments.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in public health, environmental health, sanitary engineering, water and sanitation engineering, or a related field is required. A Master's degree in Humanitarian assistance with public health courses is also acceptable.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of eight years of progressively responsible professional experience in WASH, public health, environmental health, or related fields. This includes at least five years of experience in complex humanitarian or public health emergency settings, demonstrating the ability to manage teams and work effectively under pressure.

Languages:
Fluency in French is required. Knowledge of another official UN language or a local language is desirable.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bunia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and involves working in a complex and evolving emergency context. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates must be prepared for rigorous reference and background checks, and compliance with medical clearance and inoculation requirements is mandatory.