Consultant for Disaster Risk Reduction

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) was established in December 1999 and serves as the focal point within the United Nations system for coordinating efforts to reduce disasters. The organization aims to ensure synergies among disaster reduction activities across the UN and regional organizations, operating in both developed and developing countries. UNDRR is led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction and has over 150 staff members based in its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as in regional offices. The organization is responsible for guiding, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030, which aims to enhance global awareness and action to reduce disaster risk. UNDRR also supports regional and national implementations of the framework and has initiated the 'Making Cities Resilient 2030' (MCR2030) initiative to accelerate local-level implementation of disaster risk reduction strategies.

Job Overview:
The consultant position is home-based and will focus on enhancing youth engagement and promoting gender-responsive disaster risk reduction (DRR) initiatives at the local level in Latin America and the Caribbean. The consultant will work under the supervision of the MCR2030 Regional Coordinator and will be responsible for organizing various activities aimed at strengthening local capacities in disaster risk reduction. This includes facilitating the Regional Youth Network for Disaster Risk Reduction Retreat, developing a roadmap for inter-network collaboration post-GP2025, and supporting LGBTQI+ inclusion in DRR advocacy. The consultant will also provide technical assistance to local governments in assessing their disaster resilience capacities and developing action plans, as well as organizing virtual learning labs and knowledge exchanges among local governments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will have a range of responsibilities, including: organizing and facilitating the Regional Youth Network for Disaster Risk Reduction Retreat in Panama; elaborating a post-GP2025 inter-network roadmap proposal; supporting the implementation of LGBTQI+ inclusion in DRR advocacy and planning; providing technical support for National-Local linkages for DRR in the Americas and the Caribbean; developing Disaster Risk Reduction Action Plans at the local level; assessing local governments' disaster resilience capacities using MCR2030 tools; organizing MCR2030 Regional Coordination Committee activities and meetings; providing technical support on gender-responsive considerations in DRR strategies; leading MCR2030 virtual Learning Labs and Knowledge Exchange; supporting communication efforts for outreach and dissemination of MCR2030 activities; and collecting and sharing knowledge and good practices related to urban resilience and disaster risk reduction.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in Earth Sciences, Disaster Risk Reduction, Geography, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of four years of professional experience in urban or disaster risk reduction, stakeholder engagement, or related areas is required. Experience in climate change, sustainable development, or similar fields is desirable, as is experience in engaging with stakeholders such as youth, women, and other major groups. Familiarity with the United Nations system or similar international organizations is also preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree in a relevant field such as Earth Sciences, Disaster Risk Reduction, Geography, or a related area. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of disaster risk reduction and urban resilience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of professional experience related to urban or disaster risk reduction, stakeholder engagement, or similar areas. Candidates with experience in climate change, sustainable development, or humanitarian aid will be viewed favorably. Experience working within the United Nations system or similar international organizations is also desirable, as it indicates familiarity with the operational context and frameworks relevant to the role.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is required for this position, as these are the primary languages used in the role. Additionally, knowledge of French is beneficial, as English and French are the two working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of six months. The United Nations encourages applications from qualified women, men, and individuals with disabilities, emphasizing diversity within its workforce. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Only successful candidates will be contacted due to the high volume of applications received.