Programme Coordinator

Programme Coordinator

United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UNHABITAT)

July 27, 2026September 1, 2026Rio De JaneiroBrazil
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is dedicated to promoting sustainable development of human settlements and policies that ensure adequate housing for all. Established to support governments and local authorities, UN-Habitat operates globally, with a significant focus on Latin America and the Caribbean through its Regional Office based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including civil society and the private sector, to foster urban development that is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable. UN-Habitat has expanded its portfolio in Brazil, working closely with government tiers to implement effective urban policies that address social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Programme Coordinator will play a crucial role in the implementation of the 'Vida Nova no Morro' project, which aims to enhance sustainable urban development in informal settlements in Niterói. This position involves coordinating project activities, ensuring compliance with UN-Habitat standards, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders. The Programme Coordinator will be responsible for developing work plans, monitoring project progress, and ensuring that the project meets its objectives in alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to engage effectively with diverse partners, including government entities, civil society, and community members.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Coordinator will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:
  • Programme Coordination: Overseeing the development and execution of the project work plan, preparing technical documents, and ensuring compliance with project outcomes.
  • Financial Monitoring: Maintaining knowledge of the Contribution Agreement, monitoring reporting deadlines, and tracking project timelines and fund transfers.
  • Technical Coordination: Preparing technical notes, managing recruitment processes, and ensuring timely deliverables.
  • Engagement with Project Partners: Strengthening relationships with stakeholders, organizing coordination meetings, and providing project updates.
  • Monitoring and Reporting: Compiling data for evaluation, monitoring project progress, and preparing narrative reports.
  • Knowledge Management: Documenting project processes, supporting knowledge product development, and representing the project in relevant events.
  • Team Management: Overseeing consultant contracts, managing performance evaluations, and coordinating team schedules.
  • Other Duties: Performing additional tasks as required to support project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Architecture, Urbanism, Geography, or Public Policies. A postgraduate degree in related areas is preferred, or candidates may substitute this requirement with four additional years of relevant experience. Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable urban development projects, with demonstrated project coordination experience in Brazil. Desirable experience includes urban strategy development, housing policy, data-driven urban planning, and stakeholder engagement strategies. Familiarity with the United Nations System is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and Urbanism, Geography, Economics, International Relations, Administration, Public Policies, or related fields is required. A postgraduate degree in Architecture and Urbanism, Urban Planning, Geography, Project Management, or related fields is preferred, or candidates may have four additional years of relevant experience in lieu of this requirement.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in sustainable or urban development projects, particularly in project coordination within Brazil. Candidates should have experience in developing urban strategies, housing policies, and participatory planning approaches, as well as communication and stakeholder engagement strategies for urban projects. Previous experience with the United Nations System is desirable but not mandatory.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese and English is required for this position. Knowledge of Spanish is beneficial, as it is the working language of the Regional Office. English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, making proficiency in these languages advantageous for effective communication within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The contract is for a duration of ten months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funds. The position is local, and only nationals from Brazil or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The consultant must be available for travel related to project activities, with travel coordinated and financed by UN-Habitat according to United Nations travel guidelines. The position offers a remuneration package that includes health insurance and is classified under the LICA contract type. It is important for applicants to submit complete applications in English, including a cover memo, educational background, and professional experience details. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.
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