Emergency Specialist, NO-3, FT, Gaza, State of Palestine - MENA

Organizational Context

UNICEF operates in over 190 countries and territories, dedicated to saving children’s lives, defending their rights, and helping them fulfill their potential. We are committed to promoting the rights of every child, viewing it as a calling. UNICEF offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development, fostering a sense of purpose while serving children and communities globally.

Job Purpose

Under the guidance of the supervisor, this role establishes and implements emergency preparedness and response for the Gaza Field Office. The incumbent is responsible for the development, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of emergency interventions to ensure the survival and well-being of children, mothers, and affected communities during emergencies. This involves creating and updating contingency plans, establishing early warning mechanisms, and formulating action plans. The role provides technical advice on programme management related to emergencies, develops and maintains crucial information databases, and plans logistics for timely response. Additionally, it involves organizing and conducting training for staff capacity building in emergency preparedness and response, and participating in regional training workshops to enhance the capabilities of UNICEF staff and implementing partners.

Responsibilities

Develops and updates sub-national contingency plans and establishes early warning mechanisms to ensure effective preparedness and response to specific emergencies. Participates in the formulation and development of action plans for emergency preparedness and response, monitoring compliance across all sectors, including financial resources, and ensuring coordinated management. Provides technical advice on emergency preparedness and response, including programme management, and advises the country office on implementing field-level preparedness measures to strengthen national response mechanisms. Develops and maintains databases on country/regional information, ensuring effective information flow for emergency management. Identifies available resources in emergency-prone areas and establishes logistics plans for timely and effective emergency operations. Plans, organizes, and conducts training for staff capacity building in emergencies preparedness and response, and assists in developing and conducting emergency training courses. In an emergency, acts as a member of the Emergency Response Team, establishing UNICEF's presence and implementing initial operational tasks. Verifies the nature and extent of emergencies with relevant stakeholders and ensures effective telecommunications and staff security. Participates in assessing local emergency and security situations affecting children and mothers, conducting initial crisis assessments, and evaluating the office's preparedness plan against current needs. Determines UNICEF's corporate priorities and appropriate interventions, coordinating with partners for rapid assessments aligned with the Core Commitment for Children in Emergencies.

Work Experience

A minimum of two years of professional experience in emergency preparedness and response, humanitarian affairs, or a related field. Experience working in complex emergencies or conflict-affected areas is desirable. Experience with UNICEF or other UN agencies is an asset.

Skills

Emergency Preparedness, Emergency Response, Contingency Planning, Needs Assessment, Logistics Planning, Capacity Building, Programme Management, Coordination, Information Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Risk Management, Report Writing

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