Consultant International

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNICEF, which is a United Nations agency established in 194

• UNICEF's mission is to advocate for the protection of children's rights, to help meet their basic needs, and to expand their opportunities to reach their full potential. The organization operates in over 150 countries and territories, employing approximately 13,000 staff members worldwide. UNICEF focuses on various areas including health, education, child protection, and water and sanitation, aiming to improve the lives of children and their families globally.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant is crucial in addressing the urgent need for improved water supply and sanitation services in Ivory Coast, particularly in light of the resurgence of waterborne diseases such as cholera. The consultant will be tasked with analyzing the current data collection and management mechanisms related to water supply and sanitation infrastructures. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of the existing systems and the ability to propose enhancements that will facilitate real-time data production and effective decision-making. The consultant will work closely with the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (MINHAS) and other stakeholders to ensure that the data collected is reliable and can be used for planning and investment purposes. The overarching goal is to establish a robust monitoring and evaluation system that can effectively address the existing gaps in water supply and sanitation services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks including:

• Describing the organization and functioning of the existing data production mechanism.
• Assessing the technical and financial capacities of the structures and personnel involved in data management.
• Analyzing the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities of the current system.
• Evaluating the frequency and quality of data produced over the past two years.
• Analyzing the data transformation process for decision-making.
• Assessing the reliability and efficiency of the data production mechanism.
• Formulating recommendations for technical and material upgrades to the data collection system.
• Developing protocols for data collection, analysis, and processing related to water supply and sanitation infrastructures. The consultant will also be responsible for engaging with various stakeholders including governmental bodies, NGOs, and technical partners to ensure comprehensive input and collaboration throughout the process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in engineering or a related field (BAC + 5 years) in areas such as rural engineering, geography, cartography, geographic information systems (GIS), or equivalent. A solid experience of at least 10 years in auditing and managing GIS systems, as well as data collection related to water supply and sanitation infrastructures, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in inventory processes, computer tools, database management, and mapping software. A strong understanding of the context of water supply and sanitation challenges in the sub-region is also required, along with the ability to work under pressure and deliver quality results. Experience working with government services, NGOs, and development partners is highly valued, as is fluency in French.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in engineering or a related field, specifically at least a BAC + 5 level. Relevant fields of study include rural engineering, geography, cartography, geographic information systems (GIS), or any other recognized equivalent. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the technical aspects of water supply and sanitation systems and for effectively analyzing data collection methodologies.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the field of auditing and managing geographic information systems (GIS), as well as in data collection related to water supply and sanitation infrastructures. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on similar projects and demonstrate a deep understanding of the challenges faced in the sector. Experience in conducting audits and assessments of data management systems is also essential, as is familiarity with the operational context of water supply and sanitation in Ivory Coast.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and the country. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The consultant will be based at the MINHAS and may undertake up to two field missions in regions designated by MINHAS. UNICEF will cover transportation costs for these missions. The consultant is expected to use their own computer and ICT tools. The contract duration is not specified, but the total estimated time for the assignment is 70 days, with various deliverables expected throughout this period. The position is not classified as a staff position within UNICEF, and therefore, the consultant will not be entitled to staff benefits such as leave rights or medical insurance coverage. The selection process will involve a rigorous evaluation of technical and financial proposals, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.