Technical Expert for District Heating (WASH)
Organizational Context
UNICEF Ukraine, as the lead agency of the WASH Cluster, supports children and families affected by conflict. The cluster coordinates over 100 partners across fifteen oblasts, focusing on emergency response, service restoration, and systems strengthening in water, sanitation, hygiene, and district heating. This UNV assignment specifically supports the District Heating stream of the National WASH Cluster's Technical Cell, addressing severe damage to Ukraine's district heating infrastructure due to ongoing armed conflict.
Job Purpose
This UNV assignment supports UNICEF Ukraine's WASH programme by contributing to the District Heating stream of the National WASH Cluster's Technical Cell. The role is crucial in addressing the severe damage to Ukraine's district heating infrastructure caused by the ongoing armed conflict. The expert will provide technical expertise, coordinate emergency response efforts, facilitate communication between stakeholders including district heating companies and partner organizations, and support the development of short-, medium-, and long-term recovery plans for the sector. The objective is to strengthen institutional capacity, improve coordination, and ensure evidence-based planning for the recovery of critical heating systems.
Responsibilities
The Technical Expert will support the WASH Cluster Technical Cell Lead by building strong networks with district heating companies and communal enterprises through field assessments to identify needs and priorities. Responsibilities include organizing coordination meetings with government partners, utilities, local authorities, and NGOs; tracking and mapping district heating projects to avoid duplication. The expert will provide technical insights, assessments, and reviews to inform recovery efforts, support utilities in prioritizing critical needs, and facilitate efficient information sharing and problem-solving among stakeholders. Additionally, the role involves organizing cluster meetings, preparing presentations based on field data, supporting capacity-building activities, and performing other assigned tasks.
Work Experience
Requires 7 years of relevant experience, including at least five years in district heating, power generation, or energy services within Ukraine or a similar post-conflict setting. Experience with technical due diligence, operations, or engineering is essential. Familiarity with mechanical systems, project cycle management, humanitarian approaches, and strong communication skills with diverse stakeholders are highly desirable. Experience with UN agencies in WASH or energy sectors is an advantage.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment, decision-making, planning, organization, professionalism, and self-management. Technical expertise in engineering, construction, emergency preparedness, crisis response, and energy systems is required. A working knowledge of English (B2 level) is also necessary.