National Consultant - Field Coordination

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is the United Nations agency established to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities, with the overarching goal of providing adequate shelter for all. Founded by the General Assembly, UN-Habitat has been at the forefront of urban development since its inception, focusing on the challenges of urbanization and the need for sustainable urban planning. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, collaborating with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to advance sustainable urbanization, inclusive governance, and climate resilience. UN-Habitat's mission is further guided by the New Urban Agenda, adopted during the Habitat III conference in 2016, which sets global standards for sustainable urban development and outlines how cities should be planned and managed. The agency's work is crucial in addressing the complexities of urban growth, particularly in regions facing displacement and rapid urbanization, such as South Sudan, where it implements programs aimed at strengthening local capacities and promoting durable solutions for affected communities.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant - Field Coordination position is critical for the effective implementation of the South Sudan component of the EU Operational Support to the IGAD Platform, particularly in Aweil and its surrounding areas. The role involves coordinating field activities, engaging with stakeholders, and ensuring that project activities align with area-based durable solutions approaches. The consultant will work under the guidance of the International Project Manager and will be responsible for facilitating community engagement, providing technical inputs, and supporting the overall project implementation. This position requires a proactive approach to managing relationships with local authorities, communities, and partners, ensuring that the project meets its objectives while addressing the unique challenges faced by displacement-affected communities. The consultant will also play a key role in capacity building, data management, and supporting the development of UN-Habitat's programs in South Sudan, contributing to the organization's mission of promoting sustainable urban development and resilience.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Field Officer will undertake a variety of tasks to ensure the successful implementation of the project. Key responsibilities include preparing regular field progress reports for the International Project Manager, maintaining communication with state and local authorities, and participating in area-based coordination meetings. The officer will coordinate field activities, support project missions, and provide technical, operational, and logistical support in collaboration with government counterparts and partners. Monitoring progress against approved workplans, organizing validation workshops, and facilitating training and capacity-building activities for local authorities and community stakeholders are also essential duties. The officer will ensure that community priorities are reflected in program activities and will coordinate data collection and validation exercises to support project planning. Additionally, the officer will contribute to the development of guidance materials and support the identification of funding opportunities for future programs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess advanced university degrees (master’s or equivalent) in fields such as Urban Planning, Urban Management, Public Administration, Local Governance, Development Studies, or related disciplines. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in local governance, field coordination, program implementation, or urban development is required. Experience working with local authorities and communities in South Sudan, as well as knowledge of local governance structures and the displacement context, is essential. Familiarity with United Nations agencies, international organizations, or multi-partner programs is desirable, as is experience supporting urban development initiatives in humanitarian or displacement settings.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Urban Planning, Urban Management, Public Administration, Local Governance, Development Studies, or a related area. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have two additional years of qualifying experience, demonstrating the importance of both formal education and practical experience in this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as local governance, field coordination, program implementation, or urban development. Candidates should have experience working with local authorities and communities in South Sudan, which is crucial for understanding the local governance structures and the challenges posed by displacement. Experience with United Nations agencies or international organizations is desirable, particularly in contexts involving urban development initiatives in humanitarian or displacement settings.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is essential for stakeholder engagement and reporting. Knowledge of Dinka is considered desirable, as it would facilitate better communication with local communities and enhance the effectiveness of community consultations and participatory planning processes.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Aweil, South Sudan, and is expected to last for a duration of six months. The role is classified as an Individual Contractor position, which may imply a level of flexibility in terms of contract duration and responsibilities. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the application process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.