Field Agent (Engineering/Architecture)

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 works on various initiatives aimed at improving urban living conditions. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on urban development, housing policies, and community engagement. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where it has expanded its portfolio to support effective and sustainable urban policies in collaboration with local governments.

Job Overview:
The Field Agent (Engineering/Architecture) will play a crucial role in the implementation of the 'Vida Nova no Morro' project, which aims to enhance urban conditions in informal settlements in Niterói. This position involves conducting architectural inspections and assessments in favelas, ensuring compliance with established protocols for data collection. The Field Agent will work closely with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams, engaging with local communities to facilitate communication and gather necessary data for housing policies. The role requires a commitment to ethical standards and the ability to work effectively in challenging environments, contributing to the overall goal of sustainable urban development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Field Agent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including conducting architectural inspections and assessments of dwellings in favelas, collecting and generating data from architectural surveys, and ensuring the quality and integrity of the data collected. The agent will also support the creation of reports, facilitate communication with residents, and contribute to the design of effective fieldwork methodologies. Additional responsibilities include reporting any issues encountered in the field, adhering to safety protocols, completing tasks within deadlines, attending project meetings, participating in training sessions, and maintaining professional relationships with counterparts. The agent will also be required to submit Monthly Activity Reports and provide inputs for project risk identification.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and Urbanism or Civil Engineering, or have three additional years of relevant experience beyond the educational requirement. A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in building inspection, residential construction, or related fields is required. Proficiency in Windows, Word, Excel, and Outlook is necessary, along with a good understanding of construction systems, building codes, and safety requirements. Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in favelas are essential, as is a commitment to professional ethics and confidentiality.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and Urbanism or Civil Engineering is required for this position. Candidates with additional relevant experience may also be considered. The educational background should include knowledge of housing conditions, habitability standards, and technical assessments in vulnerable communities.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of relevant experience in building inspection, assessment, or technical assistance for housing in Brazil. Experience with residential construction and familiarity with the UN System is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of public policies related to favelas and possess the ability to work in field environments while adhering to safety protocols.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication in the local context. Proficiency in English and Spanish is considered an asset, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, and Spanish is used in the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Niterói, Brazil, and is expected to last for six months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The role is local, and only nationals from Brazil or candidates with a permanent visa may apply. The consultant will be responsible for their own security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and must complete required training, including the BSAFE security course from UNDSS, within the first month of employment. The consultant will receive a monthly allowance upon approval of their activity reports by the Head of Brazil Office. All applications must be submitted in English and include a cover memo, educational background, professional experience, and other relevant information.