Local Mobiliser

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is dedicated to promoting sustainable development of human settlements and policies that ensure adequate housing for all. Established to support central and state governments, local authorities, and various partners, UN-Habitat focuses on implementing the Habitat Agenda, the 2030 Agenda with the Sustainable Development Goals, and the New Urban Agenda. The organization aims to transform cities into safer, more inclusive, and resilient places where everyone can live with dignity. UN-Habitat operates in multiple countries, with a significant presence in Brazil, particularly through its Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) based in Rio de Janeiro. The agency has expanded its portfolio in Brazil by collaborating with all tiers of government to formulate and implement effective, sustainable, and socially equitable urban policies. UN-Habitat has a long-standing partnership with the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro, especially in addressing challenges in the city's favelas and communities.

Job Overview:
The Local Mobiliser will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of UN-Habitat's programs and activities in Brazil. Reporting to the Head of the Brazil Office, the Local Mobiliser will work closely with UN-Habitat’s operational and technical teams to ensure effective community engagement and participation. The position requires the Local Mobiliser to promote active involvement of community members in decision-making processes and project implementation, thereby fostering a sense of belonging among residents. The Local Mobiliser will also be responsible for organizing meetings, workshops, and assemblies to facilitate social participation, ensuring that project information is communicated clearly and efficiently to the community. This role is essential for the successful execution of UN-Habitat projects in partnership with the Municipality of Rio de Janeiro, particularly in vulnerable areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Local Mobiliser will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: 1) Promoting community participation and engagement; 2) Organizing and facilitating meetings, workshops, and assemblies for social participation; 3) Communicating project information effectively to the community; 4) Encouraging active community involvement in decision-making and project implementation; 5) Publicizing the program within the communities; 6) Attending project meetings as required; 7) Participating in local meetings upon request; 8) Ensuring that technical activities align with the quality expectations of UN-Habitat and its partners; 9) Performing additional duties as requested by supervisors; 10) Preparing and delivering a Monthly Activity Report in a timely manner. The Local Mobiliser will also be required to complete all necessary training and courses, including the BSAFE security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security course from UNDSS, during the first month of employment. The consultant will be responsible for their own security and must familiarize themselves with UN security mechanisms.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires the following qualifications: 1) Secondary school education or an additional two years of relevant technical experience beyond the minimum requirement; 2) A minimum of three years of experience in relevant fields, particularly in social work and field coordination, preferably within the public sector and in vulnerable areas; 3) Previous experience working with the United Nations is desirable; 4) Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Windows, Office packages, and web search engines; 5) Experience in conducting household, census, and/or social surveys, especially in vulnerable areas is preferred. Competencies required include professionalism, planning and organization, communication, teamwork, and knowledge management.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess at least a secondary school education. Additional relevant technical experience may substitute for formal education. The educational background should ideally include training or coursework related to social sciences, urban planning, or community development, which would enhance the candidate's ability to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience, particularly in social work, community engagement, or project management. Experience in coordinating fieldwork, especially in vulnerable areas, is highly desirable. Previous experience with the United Nations or similar organizations will be an advantage, as it demonstrates familiarity with international standards and practices in community development and urban planning.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is required for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with the local community. Additionally, knowledge of English and Spanish is beneficial, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat, while Spanish is the working language of the Regional Office.

Additional Notes:
The position is for a six-month contract, with the possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funds. The consultant will receive a monthly allowance of BRL 3,601 (net amount) upon approval of their monthly activity reports by the Head of Brazil Office. The appointment is on a local basis, and only nationals from Brazil or candidates with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The consultant must be available for travel related to project activities, which will be coordinated and financed by UN-Habitat according to United Nations travel rules. All applications must be submitted in English and include a cover memo, educational background, professional experience, and other relevant information. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.