International Urban Planning Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is an agency established by the UN General Assembly to promote sustainable and resilient urban development. It focuses on urbanization and human settlement issues globally, aiming to create well-planned, well-governed cities with adequate housing and access to essential services. UN-Habitat's mission includes responding to crises and supporting post-crisis recovery, aligning its efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2026-2030 and the New Urban Agenda. The organization operates in numerous countries, providing technical advisory services and collaborating with local governments to foster inclusive urban development.

Job Overview:
The International Urban Planning Expert will play a crucial role in supporting the sustainable post-conflict recovery and urbanization of cities and towns in Azerbaijan. This position involves providing strategic and technical support for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda. The expert will work closely with UN-Habitat's Urban Lab team and local authorities to develop urban plans and designs that promote resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability in the reconstruction of conflict-affected areas. The role requires a solid background in urban planning, with a focus on areas such as urban resilience, climate adaptation, and socio-economic development. The expert will also be responsible for capacity building among local urban actors and ensuring that international planning frameworks are effectively localized.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The International Urban Planning Expert will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: conducting reviews and assessments of urban planning policies and strategies; leading and coordinating a technical urban planning team; liaising with local partners and stakeholders; advising on data collection and analysis for context-specific strategies; ensuring quality assurance of project outputs; facilitating in-country missions and consultations; drafting reports and presentations; developing assessment models for urban plans; creating visual graphics for proposals; organizing participatory processes for stakeholders; contributing to capacity-building interventions; and supporting resource mobilization efforts through concept notes and funding proposals. The expert will also document lessons learned and contribute to knowledge management within UN-Habitat.

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 relevant experience may be accepted. At least five years of relevant work experience in urban development and planning is required, with proven experience in project management and urban planning processes. Familiarity with software for urban planning, data analysis, and visualization is essential, along with skills in hand drawing and sketching. Experience in managing statistical urban data and delivering capacity-building processes is advantageous. Knowledge of the Sustainable Development Goals and experience with international development agencies, particularly the United Nations, is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Architecture, Urban Development, Urban Planning, or Design. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in urban planning principles and practices, as well as an understanding of the complexities involved in post-conflict urban development.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in urban development and planning, with direct involvement in program or project management. Experience in urban planning projects at the territorial or local level, particularly in contexts involving housing, internally displaced persons (IDPs), urban resilience, and mobility, is essential. Familiarity with software tools for urban planning and data visualization is required, along with experience in coordinating with public sector institutions and managing partnerships with private sector entities.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Azerbaijani and/or Russian is considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the expert's work in Azerbaijan.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for nine months, and 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 role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including local government officials and community representatives. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.