International Urban Planning Expert
Organizational Context
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) promotes sustainable and resilient urban development globally. In Azerbaijan, UN-Habitat provides technical advisory services to the government for inclusive urban development, focusing on post-conflict recovery and the implementation of SDGs and the New Urban Agenda. This role supports these efforts within the Regional Programme Division.
Job Purpose
This role provides strategic and technical support for the sustainable post-conflict recovery and urbanization of cities and towns in Azerbaijan, aligning with the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda. The expert will contribute to promoting inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable urban development through normative and planning activities, policy development, and urban reconstruction in conflict-affected areas. The position aims to enhance capacity-building and foster innovative practices for sustainable urban communities, working closely with national counterparts and UN-Habitat's Urban Lab to achieve transformative change and support the government's reconstruction plans.
Responsibilities
The International Urban Planning Expert will lead and coordinate technical urban planning teams in preparing proposals for housing, public facilities, services, and infrastructure in selected territories. This involves undertaking reviews and assessments of relevant policies and strategies, documenting findings, and advising on data analysis for contextually appropriate strategies. The role requires liaising and collaborating with government bodies, institutional counterparts, local partners, and community stakeholders. The expert will provide quality assurance for project outputs, coordinate implementing partners and local experts, and facilitate missions and consultations. Responsibilities also include drafting concept papers, progress reports, and developing models for urban plan assessment and quality assurance for knowledge management and outreach. Additionally, the role involves developing visually engaging graphics, organizing participatory processes, and contributing to capacity-building interventions.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in urban development, planning, and design, including proven program/project management experience. Direct experience with urban planning projects at territorial or local levels, covering areas like housing, IDPs, urban resilience, mobility, project finance, or data systems is required. Proficiency in urban/spatial planning software (e.g., AutoCAD, ArcGIS/QGIS) and data analysis/visualization tools (e.g., Adobe Suite) is also necessary.
Skills
Urban planning and design, project management, policy analysis, data analysis and interpretation, GIS/spatial planning software proficiency, graphic design and visualization, capacity building, stakeholder coordination, knowledge management, report writing, communication.