UNV Community Manager

Job Advertisement

Position Title: UNV Community Manager
Location: Cotopaxi
Country: Ecuador
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a United Nations agency focused on promoting sustainable development, eradicating poverty, and fostering democratic governance and the rule of law. Established to support countries in integrating commitments from the post-2015 Development Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national and local priorities, the UNDP operates in 170 countries worldwide. Its mission is to create a just, equitable, and inclusive world, calling on development actors to work together to promote sustainable economic growth, social development, and environmental protection. The UNDP's Strategic Plan for 2022-2025 reaffirms its commitment to the 2030 Agenda, focusing on solutions for poverty reduction, energy access, equality, resilience, and environmental sustainability. In Ecuador, the UNDP implements the "Anticipate Disasters" project, funded by ECHO and developed in partnership with Plan International, CESA, the National Risk Management Secretariat (SNGR), and the Geophysical Institute of the National Polytechnic School (IG-EPN).

Job Overview:
The UNV Community Manager will play a crucial role in strengthening disaster preparedness capacities in 17 rural communities highly exposed to volcanic eruptions in the Cotopaxi province. Under the delegated authority and supervision of the National Risk Management Officer of UNDP Ecuador or their designated representative, the UN Volunteer will be responsible for establishing community links, organizing awareness-raising meetings, and facilitating training sessions for Community Risk Management Committees (CCGR) and community brigades. The position requires a proactive approach to community engagement, ensuring that local leaders and stakeholders are involved in disaster risk management efforts. The UNV will also coordinate the delivery of community plans and resources, document activities, and support practical exercises and inter-institutional participation in disaster preparedness initiatives. This role is vital for enhancing community resilience and ensuring that vulnerable populations are equipped to respond effectively to emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Community Engagement: Establish contact with community leaders and focal points from local governments in Chantilín, Guaytacama, Joseguango Bajo, and Mulaló. Develop a collaborative work schedule to enhance disaster risk management in the 17 targeted communities.
• Awareness-Raising and Community Organization: Plan and conduct awareness-raising meetings, ensuring accessible timings for community members. Coordinate with UNDP consultants for the development of these meetings.
• Capacity Building and Community Strengthening: Assist in planning and executing training for CCGR and community brigades on key disaster risk management topics. Facilitate participatory development of community plans, including risk maps, resources, and actions. Organize assemblies to socialize and approve community plans.
• Coordination and Resource Delivery: Manage the delivery of printed community plans. Coordinate the provision of equipment for CCGR and community brigades.
• Documentation and Monitoring: Record attendance, meeting minutes, committee formation, brigade member profiles, reports, and photographic material. Ensure project visibility through appropriate use of branding in materials and events.
• Practical Exercises and Inter-Institutional Participation: Support the planning and execution of simulations and drills in communities. Promote inclusive participation (women, youth, elderly, persons with disabilities) in committees and brigades. Coordinate with local governments (provincial, cantonal, and parish) for their involvement in the process. Participate in project consortium meetings to articulate actions and share progress.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, creativity, sound judgment, and decision-making abilities. They should demonstrate effective planning and organizational skills, professionalism, and self-management. The role requires a commitment to the values of responsibility, flexibility, and inclusivity in community engagement.

Educational Background:
A background in social sciences, community development, disaster management, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of community dynamics and disaster risk management principles.

Experience:
Previous experience in community engagement, disaster risk management, or related fields is essential. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in rural or vulnerable communities, demonstrating the ability to adapt to challenging environments and effectively mobilize community participation.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in the communities. Knowledge of indigenous languages or English would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse community members and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The UNV Community Manager position is a volunteer role with a monthly stipend of $453.10 to cover personal expenses, daily transportation within the community, and normal living costs. Volunteers will receive international medical insurance with 100% coverage (including dental care), life and disability insurance, and opportunities for learning through the UNV training platform. The position is based in rural areas with limited access to telecommunication networks, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges of living in such environments.