International Urban Design Lead Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is a global organization established by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable urban development. It serves as the focal point for urbanization and human settlement issues within the UN system. UN-Habitat aims to create well-planned, well-governed, and efficient cities and towns, ensuring access to housing, infrastructure, and essential services. The organization operates in numerous countries, providing technical advisory services to support inclusive and sustainable urban development, particularly in post-crisis contexts. UN-Habitat's strategic plan for 2026-2029 emphasizes responding to crises and supporting recovery efforts in urban areas. In Azerbaijan, UN-Habitat collaborates with the government to promote urban reconstruction and rehabilitation, climate adaptation, and capacity-building initiatives, aligning its efforts with national policies and global initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda.

Job Overview:
The International Urban Design Lead Expert will play a crucial role in providing strategic and technical support for the sustainable post-conflict recovery and urbanization of cities and towns in Azerbaijan. This position involves leading the development of master plans and design solutions for urban settlements, ensuring that these plans are context-sensitive and aligned with international and national urban design policies. The expert will work closely with local authorities and the UN-Habitat Urban Lab team to implement interventions that promote resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban development. The role requires a strong background in urban design, architecture, and sustainable development, with a focus on participatory design and capacity building. The expert will also be responsible for documenting lessons learned and disseminating knowledge to enhance future urban planning efforts in Azerbaijan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The International Urban Design Lead Expert will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: compiling and analyzing planning and design precedents; leading the preparation of master plans for two settlements; advising on data analysis and interpretation; developing detailed design solutions for public functions and housing; facilitating participatory design processes; creating sustainable urban design guidelines; providing technical guidance to local and international experts; ensuring plans adhere to sustainable development principles; conducting quality assurance of project outputs; designing capacity-building activities; developing concept notes and funding proposals; and leading the development of a communication and visibility plan for the project. The expert will also document lessons learned and contribute to UN-Habitat's knowledge management efforts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in Architecture, Urban Development, Urban Planning, or Design. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. At least 7 years of relevant work experience in urban development, planning, and design is required, with proven experience in project management and participatory urban design. Candidates should demonstrate direct experience leading urban design projects at various levels, including the ability to translate strategic objectives into actionable plans. Proficiency in urban planning software (e.g., AutoCAD) and visualization tools (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop) is essential, along with strong design communication skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Architecture, Urban Development, Urban Planning, or Design is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in urban design principles and practices, as well as an understanding of sustainable development frameworks.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience in urban development and planning, with a focus on project management and participatory design processes. Direct experience in urban design projects, particularly in post-crisis contexts, is essential. Experience working with public sector institutions and in Azerbaijan or similar urban crisis environments is considered an asset. Additionally, experience in coordinating with implementing partners and private sector companies is beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is required for this position. Working proficiency in Azerbaijani and/or Russian is considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance engagement in the planning processes.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for 9 months. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including local authorities and the UN-Habitat team. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Head of UN-Habitat’s Country Programme in Baku and the Head of the Urban Lab in Nairobi. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.