Health, Safety, Social and Environmental Associate - Social Development

Organizational Context

UNOPS operates in Latin America and the Caribbean, delivering sustainable development solutions focused on resilient infrastructure and public health. The Barbados Country Office serves as a hub for 17 Small Island Developing States, supporting national priorities and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. This role supports the strengthening of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital through construction of new facilities, aligning with national health plans.

Job Purpose

This role serves as a crucial link between project activities and affected communities, facilitating effective stakeholder interaction, mitigating conflict, and ensuring project alignment with social inclusion, human rights, and gender policies. The Associate will conduct field visits, manage community feedback, and support the implementation of the Stakeholder Engagement Plan. By proactively addressing concerns and promoting inclusive engagement, the role aims to minimize potential disruptions and ensure project continuity. The position is vital for maintaining positive community relations and gathering data-driven insights to enhance project communication and risk management strategies, ultimately contributing to the successful delivery of infrastructure improvements at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

Responsibilities

The Health, Safety, Social and Environmental Associate will manage community engagement by identifying stakeholders, mapping needs, and implementing the Stakeholder Engagement Plan with a focus on gender-specific protocols. This includes conducting regular field visits, mediating concerns, and arranging community meetings to gather feedback. The role also involves organizing public hearings and promoting inclusive engagement for vulnerable groups. In risk management, the Associate will conduct perception surveys, assess community liaison risks, and co-create response actions. They will report grievances and emerging issues to the Project Manager, monitor community dynamics and media to counter misinformation, and support the preparation of communication materials. Additionally, the Associate will respond to stakeholder inquiries, maintain interaction logs, and support the preparation of monthly reports detailing engagement metrics and social issues.

Work Experience

A minimum of six years of experience in communication/liaison, community mobilization, or a relevant field is required. Prior experience working with national and international organizations is a significant advantage.

Skills

Community Engagement, Project Management, Risk Management, Communication, Stakeholder Engagement, Field Visits, Reporting.

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