Call for Proposal: Participatory Design and Construction of Three Multifunctional Community Spaces

Job Posting Organization:
UN-Habitat is a United Nations agency established in 1978, dedicated to promoting sustainable urban development and improving living conditions in cities and communities around the world. The organization operates in over 90 countries, focusing on issues such as housing, urban planning, and environmental sustainability. UN-Habitat aims to empower communities and enhance their resilience through participatory approaches and innovative solutions. The agency works with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to achieve its mission of creating sustainable urban environments.

Job Overview:
The position involves the participatory design and construction of three multifunctional community spaces aimed at fostering a circular and popular economy in Comuna 5, Tumaco. These spaces will be co-created with women-led recycling organizations and will serve as hubs for recycling education, material sorting, and exchange. The project is part of the Conexión Pazífico Sostenible initiative, which seeks to address critical issues such as inadequate solid waste management and income generation challenges faced by the local population. The selected partner will be responsible for engaging with the community, ensuring that the design and construction processes are inclusive and reflective of the needs and priorities of the residents. The project is expected to be completed within four months, with a total grant of USD 96,000 allocated for the initiative.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected partner will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Conducting a thorough community engagement process to gather input and feedback from local residents, particularly women and young people involved in recycling initiatives.
• Developing a comprehensive work plan and baseline assessment to guide the project implementation.
• Collaboratively designing the multifunctional community spaces in alignment with the needs identified by the community.
• Establishing use agreements with the community to ensure the spaces are utilized effectively and sustainably.
• Preparing technical designs and obtaining necessary environmental permits for construction.
• Overseeing the construction process, ensuring that local labor is prioritized, and that women and youth are actively involved in the workforce.
• Implementing community activation strategies to promote the use of the spaces and facilitate ongoing engagement with the community.
• Conducting evaluations and systematizing the project outcomes to inform future initiatives and share best practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate a strong understanding of participatory design principles and community engagement strategies. Experience in urban planning, architecture, or a related field is essential. Additionally, familiarity with environmental and social safeguards, as well as knowledge of circular economy concepts, will be highly regarded. The ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, government entities, and NGOs, is crucial for success in this role. Strong communication and project management skills are also required to ensure effective coordination and implementation of the project.

Educational Background:
A degree in urban planning, architecture, environmental science, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in participatory design, community development, or sustainable urbanism will be considered an asset. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of the socio-economic context of Tumaco and the challenges faced by its residents.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in community-based projects, urban development, or participatory design is required. Experience working with marginalized communities, particularly in the context of recycling and waste management, will be advantageous. Proven track record of successfully managing similar projects from conception to completion is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, as all community engagement and documentation will be conducted in this language. Proficiency in English is desirable, as it may be necessary for reporting and communication with international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The project is expected to last for four months, with a total budget of USD 96,00

• The selected partner will be required to submit proposals through the UN-Habitat Implementing Partner Portal by the deadline of 9 October 202
• This position is open to both national and international applicants, and the selected partner will be expected to work closely with local communities to ensure the project's success.