Senior Urban and Territorial Planner Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established by the UN General Assembly to promote sustainable and resilient urban environments. It serves as the focal point for urbanization and human settlement issues within the UN system. UN-Habitat aims to create well-planned and governed cities that provide adequate housing, infrastructure, and access to essential services. The organization operates under a Strategic Plan that spans from 2026 to 2029, focusing on responding to crises and enhancing urban resilience. The Regional Programme Division (RPD) is the operational arm of UN-Habitat, facilitating regional and country-level implementation of programs and ensuring coordinated assistance across Member States. The Urban Lab, a key initiative of UN-Habitat, collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to address complex urban challenges through innovative solutions, working in over 60 countries and 80 cities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Senior Urban and Territorial Planner Consultant will play a crucial role in strengthening the delivery and reporting of the Water as Leverage Multilevel Climate Action (WaL MCA) Programme and related initiatives. This position involves supporting resource mobilization efforts and providing guidance to cities and communities through the Urban Lab's knowledge and materials. The consultant will work closely with the Urban Lab team and other divisions within UN-Habitat, contributing to the development of evidence-based urban and territorial planning strategies. The role requires a proactive approach to synthesizing information, conducting policy analysis, and facilitating knowledge exchange to enhance urban resilience and climate action.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for coordinating the consolidation of the WaL MCA Programme and related initiatives, particularly in India and Kenya. Key duties include compiling and analyzing program outputs, documenting lessons learned, and preparing narrative reports that connect local experiences with broader program insights. The consultant will also develop concept notes and funding proposals aligned with donor priorities, conduct desk reviews and policy analyses on urban planning and climate resilience, and provide technical advice on urban profiling and strategic investment approaches. Additionally, the consultant will facilitate knowledge management activities, contribute to project development, and draft guidance materials on evidence-based urban planning, ensuring alignment with UN-Habitat's strategic objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Architecture, Urban Development, Urban Planning, or Design. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in urban and territorial planning, climate resilience, and program development is required. Experience in preparing analytical reports, funding proposals, and facilitating workshops is essential. Proven experience in managing multi-stakeholder projects and familiarity with participatory processes in urban development are advantageous. Knowledge of the Sustainable Development Goals and experience with international development agencies are also beneficial.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Architecture, Urban Development, Urban Planning, or Design is required. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in urban planning principles and practices, with a focus on sustainability and resilience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in urban and territorial planning, urban development, and climate resilience. Candidates should have a proven track record in project coordination and experience in preparing reports and analytical products. Experience in organizing workshops and stakeholder meetings is also necessary, along with familiarity with multi-stakeholder project management.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is desirable, with working proficiency in French, Portuguese, or Spanish considered an advantage.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for three months. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair hiring procedure.