Field Associate (WASH Integration)

Organizational Context

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to saving lives, protecting rights, and building a better future for forcibly displaced, stateless, and host communities. UNHCR works in over 130 countries, assisting millions of people.

Job Purpose

The Field Associate (WASH Integration) position is crucial for supporting UNHCR's mandate in Malawi by ensuring the effective implementation and integration of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives within refugee operations. This role involves close collaboration with refugees, local communities, and implementing partners to address critical WASH needs, promote public health, and enhance the overall well-being of displaced populations. The Field Associate will contribute to the development and execution of WASH strategies, monitor project activities, and ensure that WASH interventions are aligned with UNHCR standards and national policies. The position aims to strengthen the resilience of refugees and host communities by improving access to safe water, adequate sanitation facilities, and promoting hygiene practices, thereby reducing the incidence of waterborne diseases and improving living conditions.

Responsibilities

The Field Associate (WASH Integration) will be responsible for supporting the implementation of UNHCR's WASH strategy in Malawi. This includes assisting in the planning, execution, and monitoring of WASH activities in refugee camps and settlements, ensuring compliance with UNHCR standards and best practices. The role involves conducting needs assessments, identifying gaps in water supply, sanitation, and hygiene promotion, and contributing to the development of project proposals and work plans. The Field Associate will work closely with implementing partners, local authorities, and community representatives to facilitate the delivery of WASH services, including the construction and maintenance of water points, latrines, and handwashing facilities. They will also play a role in hygiene promotion campaigns, community engagement, and capacity building for local staff and volunteers. Monitoring the progress of WASH projects, collecting data on key indicators, and preparing regular reports on activities, challenges, and achievements are essential. The Field Associate will also assist in ensuring that WASH interventions are integrated with other sectors such as health, education, and protection, and will respond to WASH-related emergencies as needed.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of relevant work experience in the field of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), preferably within a humanitarian or development context. Experience working with refugees or displaced populations is an asset.

Skills

WASH project implementation, Needs assessment, Monitoring and evaluation, Community engagement, Hygiene promotion, Report writing, Data collection, Project planning, Coordination with partners, Understanding of humanitarian principles

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