Field Supervisor

Field Supervisor

United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UNHABITAT)

September 28, 2026October 28, 2026Rio De JaneiroBrazil
Job Description
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 significant presence in Brazil, particularly through its Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) based in Rio de Janeiro. UN-Habitat collaborates with various levels of government, civil society, and the private sector to enhance urban development and improve living conditions, especially in vulnerable communities. The organization has expanded its portfolio in Brazil, focusing on effective, sustainable, and socially equitable urban policies, particularly through initiatives like the Periferia Viva Program, which aims to improve living conditions in peripheral territories.

Job Overview:
The Field Supervisor position is crucial for the implementation of the Periferia Viva – Jardim Zaíra/Chafick-Macuco project, which aims to support the Mauá City Hall in enhancing urban infrastructure and community empowerment in vulnerable areas. The supervisor will work closely with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams, ensuring that fieldwork is conducted efficiently and effectively. This role involves overseeing field agents, managing data collection activities, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. The Field Supervisor will also be responsible for maintaining professional relationships with local stakeholders and providing logistical support for community engagement activities. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to the principles of sustainable urban development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Field Supervisor will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: implementing active search work plans in the field, ensuring quality in data collection, overseeing field agents, managing day-to-day activities of the data collection team, supporting meetings with public agencies, preparing periodic activity reports, ensuring compliance with safety protocols, assessing data quality, supporting the design of fieldwork strategies, providing logistical support for local events, maintaining professional relations with counterparts, disseminating information about the program, and performing other duties as requested. The supervisor will also be required to complete necessary training, including a security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security course, and ensure adherence to UN security protocols.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Architecture and Urbanism, Territorial Planning, Engineering, Geography, Project Management, Statistics, or related fields. Alternatively, candidates with an additional three years of relevant experience beyond the educational requirement may also be considered. The position requires a minimum of two years of experience in research, data collection, or conducting interviews in Brazil, preferably in vulnerable communities. Experience in supervising fieldwork and previous involvement with the UN System are desirable. Candidates should demonstrate good people skills, effective communication abilities, and proficiency in technological tools, particularly data collection applications like Kobo, as well as strong computer skills in Microsoft Office and Google applications.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Social Sciences, Architecture and Urbanism, Territorial Planning, Engineering, Geography, Project Management, or Statistics is required. Candidates with additional relevant experience may substitute for formal education. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of urban development and community engagement in the context of the UN-Habitat's mission.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in research, data collection, and conducting interviews, particularly within vulnerable communities in Brazil. Supervisory experience in fieldwork is preferred, as is familiarity with the UN System. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing projects and working collaboratively in diverse environments.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication within the local context. Proficiency in English and French is also beneficial, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, with Spanish being relevant for the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is expected to last for two months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funds. The position is local, and only Brazilian nationals or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The remuneration is based on the UNDP Brazil Salary Scale (SB-3/1). All applications must be submitted in English and include 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.
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