Assistant Shelter Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to saving lives and protecting the rights of refugees and displaced persons. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 employees. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and to return home voluntarily, integrate locally, or resettle in a third country. UNHCR works to safeguard the rights of refugees and displaced persons, providing them with essential support and assistance, and advocating for their protection and well-being.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Shelter Officer plays a crucial role in the preparation of comprehensive sectoral needs assessments in collaboration with various sectors such as protection, community services, and public health. This position involves overseeing the daily operations of construction and infrastructure projects within the Area of Responsibility (AoR), ensuring compliance with established standards and procedures throughout the project cycle. The incumbent is responsible for gathering both quantitative and qualitative data regarding the needs and living conditions of displaced populations and host communities. The role requires maintaining close contact with technical and non-technical staff from UN agencies, NGOs, and government authorities, and participating in discussions related to shelter and infrastructure coordination. The Assistant Shelter Officer is expected to contribute to the evolution of shelter and infrastructure responses, focusing on sustainable practices and minimizing risks associated with overcrowding and inadequate living conditions. The position demands a strong academic background in civil engineering, architecture, or a related field, and the ability to adapt shelter responses to urban planning strategies and environmental considerations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Shelter Officer's duties include providing technical guidance in developing and updating shelter approaches, participating in sectoral needs assessments, contributing to shelter strategies, and overseeing construction and infrastructure projects. The incumbent will monitor shelter programs, coordinate with various sectors to ensure synchronized implementation, and ensure compliance with UNHCR and national standards. Responsibilities also include supporting implementing partners, conducting technical evaluations of bids, and collaborating with local authorities and stakeholders to enhance shelter responses. The role requires active participation in coordination meetings, managing risks, and ensuring that all interventions align with UNHCR's protection-centered approach. The Assistant Shelter Officer will also support the identification and management of risks and opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree in fields such as architecture, civil engineering, or construction management. Alternatively, candidates with a graduate or doctorate degree may apply without prior experience. Essential qualifications include hands-on technical support experience in emergency assistance delivery, knowledge of SPHERE standards, and proficiency in using survey equipment and software such as AutoCAD. Desirable qualifications include familiarity with UNHCR systems and humanitarian architecture, as well as functional skills in drafting, documentation, and computer literacy.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. Advanced degrees in these areas are also acceptable and may substitute for experience requirements.

Experience:
The position requires at least 1 year of relevant experience for candidates with an undergraduate degree. Candidates with a graduate degree or doctorate may apply without prior experience. Essential experience includes technical support in emergency and relief operations, with a strong understanding of shelter and infrastructure coordination.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is Spanish in this case. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role at the NOA grade level and is a temporary assignment. The target start date is September 1, 2026, with an end date of December 31, 202

• The position is family-friendly, and UNHCR emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation and abuse. All candidates must adhere to UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and shortlisted candidates will undergo further assessments, including written tests and interviews.