Gender Equality Consultant - Accelerating Sanitation and Water for All (ASWA)

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, fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to provide technical, facilitation, and knowledge-management support to integrate gender-intentional approaches in WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) programs across UNICEF country programs. The role involves consolidating, disseminating, and advocating for gender-equitable WASH practices generated through the ASWA program, which supports eight countries in strengthening WASH systems and achieving universal access. The consultant will focus on addressing the disproportionate WASH-related burdens faced by women and girls, advocating for gender-sensitive policies, and embedding gender equality in WASH programming in line with UNICEF's Gender Equality Action Plan 2026-202

• The consultant will also support country teams in operationalizing gender action plans and sharing lessons learned across sectors and the WASH community.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for three main outputs: 1) Thought Leadership, Knowledge and Evidence Generation: Provide technical leadership to strengthen gender equality within the ASWA program, engage with UNICEF Communities of Practice, produce high-quality technical briefs and learning products, and document program experiences and lessons learned. 2) Advocacy, Partnerships and Strategic Influence: Represent ASWA gender approaches at global and regional events, develop evidence-based advocacy messages, engage with global coordination mechanisms, and monitor the visibility and influence of ASWA gender products. 3) Capacity Building and Technical Support: Provide ongoing technical assistance to UNICEF Country Offices, support the implementation of GALA Action Plans, design and deliver technical guidance and training, and maintain communication and reporting on progress and results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in gender studies, social sciences, public health, water and sanitation, civil engineering, international development, or a related field. They should have a good understanding of the global WASH international development community and the ability to identify gender advocacy entry points. Experience in knowledge management, evidence generation, and producing high-quality reports in the WASH sector is essential, along with excellent facilitation, communication, and advocacy skills.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as gender studies, social sciences, public health, water and sanitation, civil engineering, or international development is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of gender issues in WASH programming and for effectively contributing to the objectives of the ASWA program.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 15 years of progressively responsible experience in WASH programming, particularly in integrating gender-intentional approaches. This extensive experience is necessary to navigate the challenges and opportunities within the WASH sector and to provide effective technical support and capacity building to country teams.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while working knowledge of French or another UN language is considered an asset. Proficiency in multiple languages can enhance communication and collaboration within diverse teams and with various stakeholders in the international development community.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy has a contract duration of 15.5 months and offers a remote working arrangement. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization is committed to safeguarding children and has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must adhere to UNICEF's standards and principles.