Associate Shelter Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), an organization established in 1950 with the mission to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to providing assistance and finding durable solutions for those forced to flee their homes due to conflict or persecution. The organization is committed to ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it works to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees and other displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Associate Shelter Officer plays a crucial role in the preparation and execution of comprehensive sectoral needs assessments, collaborating with various sectors such as protection, community services, and public health. This position is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of construction and infrastructure projects within the Area of Responsibility (AoR), ensuring compliance with established standards and procedures throughout the project cycle. The incumbent will support UNHCR Field Operations in conducting shelter and infrastructure needs assessments, taking into account the current situation and projected population figures. The role requires maintaining close contact with technical and non-technical staff from UN agencies, implementing partners, and local authorities, as well as participating in discussions related to shelter and infrastructure coordination. The Associate Shelter Officer is expected to adapt shelter responses to evolving situations, focusing on durable solutions and sustainable practices while minimizing risks associated with overcrowding and inadequate living conditions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Associate Shelter Officer include developing and updating shelter approaches, conducting comprehensive needs assessments, and engaging with stakeholders to prioritize the shelter needs of vulnerable populations. The officer will support the development of shelter strategies aligned with national and global policies, oversee construction projects to ensure compliance with standards, and monitor the design and construction of infrastructure facilities. Coordination with various stakeholders, including government counterparts, is essential to ensure timely and effective shelter interventions. The officer will also provide technical guidance to implementing partners, participate in coordination meetings, and support the identification and management of risks related to shelter and infrastructure projects. Additional responsibilities include reviewing technical components of project agreements, collaborating with supply teams on procurement matters, and ensuring community participation in the project cycle.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess significant prior experience in infrastructure project management within the UN system or UNHCR, with a strong understanding of UNHCR processes and infrastructure schemes. Excellent analytical skills are required to assess political, social, and environmental factors affecting operational conditions. Strong communication and coordination skills are essential for engaging with external stakeholders, and candidates should have solid experience in team management and project leadership. A high level of proficiency in Spanish, both spoken and written, is mandatory, with a minimum overall B2 level. Candidates should also be prepared for interviews conducted in English and may be required to complete a written test or oral interview as part of the selection process.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant undergraduate degree in fields such as Architecture, Civil Engineering, or Construction Management. Advanced degrees may be considered an asset, and candidates with a Doctorate degree will have an advantage in terms of experience requirements. Specialized training in shelter coordination is also essential for this role, as it equips candidates with the necessary skills to manage shelter and infrastructure projects effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience for P2/NOB level positions, with experience in implementing shelter and infrastructure projects in humanitarian contexts and large-scale emergencies. Experience in designing and implementing shelter strategies, project formulation, planning, supervision, and management is crucial. Familiarity with AutoCAD and other relevant tools is necessary, along with experience in construction management, including site supervision and quality control. Candidates should also have experience in conducting shelter needs assessments and gap analysis for program development, as well as building local capacity and transferring knowledge as appropriate.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is required, along with knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station, which is Spanish in this case. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in both languages to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a target start date of July 1, 202

• Recruitment as a UNHCR staff member is contingent upon proof of vaccination against Covid-1
• The evaluation of applicants will be based on the information submitted during the application process, and late applications will not be considered. UNHCR does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and all applications will be treated confidentially. The organization encourages applications from all qualified candidates, promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce.