Urban Policy and Implementation Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established to promote sustainable development of human settlements and policies conducive to adequate housing for all. It operates globally, with a focus on urban development, housing, and territorial planning. UN-Habitat works with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to transform cities into safer, more inclusive, and resilient places. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and has expanded its portfolio in the region to support effective urban policies. The organization is committed to the implementation of the UN-Habitat Strategic Plan 2026-2029 and the 2030 Agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to enhance urban living conditions and promote sustainable urban development across multiple countries.

Job Overview:
The Urban Policy and Implementation Specialist will play a crucial role in advancing the National Urban Policy Programme (NUPP 2) in Paraguay. This position involves providing technical advisory services, conducting policy analysis, and engaging with stakeholders to support the implementation of urban policies and strategies. The specialist will work closely with UN-Habitat's operational and technical teams to ensure effective coordination and support for urban development initiatives. The role requires a deep understanding of urban planning and development, as well as the ability to engage with various governmental and non-governmental stakeholders. The consultant will be responsible for preparing technical documents, monitoring project progress, and facilitating stakeholder engagement activities, all aimed at achieving the objectives of the NUPP 2 project and the National Plan for Urbanism, Housing and Habitat (PLANUVIH).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Urban Policy and Implementation Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing policy advisory support and technical coordination for the review and implementation of the National Plan for Urbanism, Housing and Habitat (PLANUVIH).
• Compiling and organizing technical information to align national urban initiatives with the New Urban Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals.
• Preparing draft briefing notes, background documents, and presentations for UN-Habitat personnel and national counterparts.
• Identifying issues and information gaps in available documentation for consideration by responsible officials.
• Supporting the implementation of PLANUVIH and related urban initiatives, including monitoring and documenting demonstration projects and capacity development initiatives.
• Coordinating with the Ministry of Urbanism, Housing and Habitat (MUVH) and other governmental institutions to facilitate information sharing and stakeholder engagement.
• Monitoring project activities, tracking indicators, and preparing periodic reports for UN-Habitat and donors.
• Supporting knowledge-sharing activities and facilitating the exchange of information and good practices between Paraguay and other countries.
• Completing all required training and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security courses as mandated by UN-Habitat.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Urban Development, Urban Planning, Social Sciences, Public Administration, International Development, Economics, Geography, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates should have a minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in programme support, project coordination, urban development, housing, monitoring and reporting, or stakeholder engagement. Experience in urban development initiatives in Paraguay is desirable, as is experience with the United Nations system or international organizations. Knowledge of urban development concepts and the ability to analyze and prepare technical documentation are essential.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Urban Development, Urban Planning, Social Sciences, Public Administration, International Development, Economics, Geography, or a related area. A first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may also be acceptable. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of urban policies and development strategies.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least three years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as programme support, project coordination, urban development, housing, monitoring and reporting, or stakeholder engagement. Experience specifically related to urban development initiatives in Paraguay is highly desirable, as is familiarity with project implementation and documentation processes. Previous work with the United Nations or similar international organizations will be an advantage, as it demonstrates an understanding of the operational context and requirements of such entities.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is required for this position, as it is the working language of the Regional Office. A working knowledge of English is desirable, which would facilitate communication with international stakeholders and partners. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, given that it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will be required to submit monthly activity reports summarizing the technical advisory services provided, meetings facilitated, and stakeholder engagement activities supported. The position is expected to last for eight months, and the consultant must be available for travel related to project activities as required by the UN-Habitat ROLAC Representative. All travel will be coordinated and financed by UN-Habitat according to United Nations travel rules. Importantly, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.