Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Drainage Consultant

Organizational Context

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) promotes sustainable urban development and adequate housing for all. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. UN-Habitat actively supports urban development projects in Brazil, focusing on effective, sustainable, and socially equitable policies. This role supports a project in São Gonçalo aimed at reducing social inequalities and improving urban conditions.

Job Purpose

This role serves to support UN-Habitat's project in São Gonçalo, Brazil, which focuses on reducing social inequalities and improving urban conditions through sustainable development. The consultant will contribute to the development of a participatory Action Plan for the Periferia Viva Programme, specifically addressing the urbanization of an informal settlement. The purpose is to ensure a detailed and expert approach to environmental engineering and sustainable drainage solutions, particularly in flood-prone areas. The consultant will collaborate closely with UN-Habitat's operational and technical teams, as well as local authorities, to provide evidence-based information and technical guidance for sustainable urban policies and infrastructure development, ultimately enhancing the resilience and livability of the targeted community.

Responsibilities

The Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Drainage Consultant will conduct environmental assessments focusing on water bodies, preservation areas, erosion, and land use. This includes performing flood risk analyses to support the project's technical diagnosis. The role involves analyzing and recommending adjustments to engineering projects for climate resilience and sustainable drainage. Key duties include preparing guidelines for executive projects, collaborating on technical documents, and systematizing project processes through organized documentation. The consultant will also present findings to stakeholders, ensure compliance with UN-Habitat standards, and participate in meetings to align project expectations. Responsibilities extend to ensuring all content adheres to UN-Habitat methodologies and maintaining data confidentiality.

Work Experience

A minimum of four years of experience in drainage projects and urban stormwater management, with a focus on sustainable urban drainage design, is required. Experience with nature-based solutions, design/work in informal settlements, and previous UN System experience are desirable.

Skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office. Desirable: Good command of GIS software (QGIS, MapInfo, ArcGIS). Competencies: Professionalism, planning and organization, communication (written and verbal), and teamwork are essential. Knowledge of UN-Habitat processes and procedures is also important.

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