Field Agent

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established to promote sustainable development of human settlements and to create policies conducive to adequate housing for all. The organization works closely with central and state governments, local authorities, and various partners to implement the Habitat Agenda, the 2030 Agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, and the New Urban Agenda. UN-Habitat aims to transform cities into safer, more inclusive, and resilient places, ensuring that everyone can live with dignity. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and has been expanding its portfolio in the country by collaborating with all tiers of government to formulate and implement effective urban policies. The organization emphasizes community engagement and sustainable urban development, particularly through projects like "Vida Nova no Morro" in Niterói, which focuses on improving housing and urban conditions in informal settlements.

Job Overview:
The Field Agent position is crucial for the successful implementation of the "Vida Nova no Morro" project, which aims to enhance social housing policies and urban development in vulnerable territories. The Field Agent will work closely with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams to conduct household surveys, maintain data records, and engage with local communities. This role requires a proactive approach to community mobilization and data collection, ensuring that the project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda. The Field Agent will also participate in training sessions and contribute to the organization of field activities, making it essential for the candidate to possess strong communication and organizational skills.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Field Agent will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: conducting household field surveys using predefined socioeconomic questionnaires; maintaining accurate and structured data records; ensuring ethical data collection; promoting the program within target communities; participating in training sessions; attending project and local meetings; supporting the organization of field activities; ensuring compliance with quality standards; collaborating in knowledge management processes; submitting monthly activity reports; and performing additional duties related to project implementation as required. The Field Agent must also complete necessary training courses, including the BSAFE security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security course, and familiarize themselves with UN security mechanisms.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma or equivalent, with an additional two years of relevant technical experience preferred. A minimum of one year of experience in social mobilization, social work in favelas, or community organization is required. Familiarity with the UN System is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in technological tools, data collection applications, and possess good computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Office and Excel. Competencies in professionalism, planning, organization, communication, teamwork, and knowledge management are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a High School Diploma. Candidates with additional relevant technical experience beyond the diploma requirement will be considered favorably. Educational qualifications should be clearly outlined in the application, including dates and details of any relevant training or certifications.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant experience in social mobilization activities, social work in urban communities, or related fields. Experience working with community organizations or within the UN System is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of urban governance and local development, as well as experience in project management and monitoring-evaluation.

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 French is beneficial, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Spanish is also advantageous, particularly for communication within the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
The position is based locally in Brazil, and only Brazilian nationals or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The contract is expected to last for six months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to submit a complete application in English, including a cover memo, educational background, professional experience, and other relevant information. The UN-Habitat does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and all applications will be treated confidentially.