Shelter Associate

Organizational Context

UNHCR has been in Ukraine since 1994, significantly expanding its response after the 2022 invasion. The country office in Kyiv, with sub-offices in Dnipro and other cities, addresses the massive displacement and destruction caused by the war. UNHCR supports the government and partners in providing protection, shelter, cash, and other assistance, aligning with national strategies and recovery plans.

Job Purpose

The Shelter Associate supports comprehensive sectoral needs assessments, collaborating with protection, programme, community services, and other sectors to gather quantitative and qualitative data on displaced populations and host communities. The role involves assisting in the day-to-day management of construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with standards and procedures throughout the project cycle. The incumbent will work closely with technical and non-technical staff from sector members, NGOs, and government authorities. The position contributes to evolving shelter and infrastructure responses, moving towards durable solutions and incorporating sustainable local building practices. This includes providing technical assistance in planning, design, and construction monitoring, with a focus on urban planning strategies, minimizing harm, and adopting environmentally friendly approaches.

Responsibilities

Assist in carrying out shelter needs assessments, liaising with protection, programme, community services, WASH, administration, and supply sectors. Ensure the shelter beneficiary selection process prioritizes the most vulnerable Persons of Concern (PoC). Assist in developing and updating shelter strategies aligned with evolving situations, national policies, and global guidelines like the Global Compact on Refugees and SDGs. Provide support in the daily management of construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with UNHCR and national standards for the full project cycle. Follow up on the design and construction of infrastructure (schools, health centers, reception centers, etc.), confirming approval by relevant authorities, technical soundness, accurate documentation, and adherence to plans, timelines, and budgets. Coordinate with WASH, education, and health sectors for synchronized shelter and infrastructure implementation. Assist implementing partners on technical shelter and settlement issues, ensuring compliance with standards and strategies. Provide technical support in shelter, construction, and infrastructure development to meet PoC needs. Assist in coordinating and managing UNHCR's shelter and infrastructure interventions efficiently and cost-effectively, working with government counterparts. Participate in coordination meetings as the technical focal point for shelter/infrastructure, representing UNHCR's interests and disseminating information. Assist Programme in reviewing technical components of Project Partnership Agreements. Actively participate in the Multi-Functional Team and multi-sectoral activities. Support the preparation of bid documents, including technical specifications, BoQs, and drawings. Assist in the technical evaluation of bids and inspection of work quality. Support risk management and identify opportunities impacting objectives, raising concerns to supervisors.

Work Experience

3 years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or 2 years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor's degree or equivalent or higher. Essential knowledge of SPHERE standards, basic survey equipment, digital cameras, and computer equipment. Experience in developing shelter and settlement need assessments and gap analysis for shelter programs.

Skills

Shelter needs assessments Protection Programme support Community services coordination WASH coordination Administration support Supply chain support Project management Construction monitoring Technical guidance Coordination Risk management

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