Hardship Level (not applicable for home-based)E (most hardship)
Family Type (not applicable for home-based)
Non Family
Staff Member / Affiliate TypeUNOPS LICA6
Target Start Date2024-02-15
Job Posting End DateJanuary 31, 2024
Terms of ReferenceTitle: Shelter Associate (Regional Focal Point - Shelter/NFI Cluster)
Project: Afghanistan/2024/01
Duty station: 1 position ( Jalalabad]
Section/Unit: Emergency Shelter/Non Food Items Cluster
ICA Level: LICA-6
Corresponding level: G6
Duration: 15/Feb/2024 – 31/12/2024
Supervisor: Head of Office & National Cluster Coordinator
1. General Background
The Afghanistan Emergency Shelter and NFI cluster was established in March 2008, led by UNHCR and co-chaired by IOM. The ES/NFI cluster continues to coordinate and support access to basic lifesaving assistance through the provision of emergency shelter, shelter repair, rental support, NFIs and winterization assistance and while ensuring adequate coordination mechanisms and response capacities at national and regional levels with various line ministries. The ES/NFI cluster has established coordination mechanisms at sub-national levels of which Shelter Associate (Regional Focal Point - Shelter/NFI Cluster) will support at regional level. To enhance coordination and response, the ES/NFI cluster also has Provincial focal points in all Provinces with the sole aim of supporting the Sub-National ES/NFI Cluster Coordinator (Regional Focal Point) in representing the cluster, sharing information on displacement, assessments, partner mapping, and response. These national and sub national roles form the ES/NFI Cluster coordination team. This team, at all levels, must ensure the inclusion of key humanitarian partners within the Cluster, respecting their mandates and Programme priorities. Together with the Cluster members, the team identifies the overall requirements in responding to natural and conflict emergencies and will endeavors to ensure Cluster capacity to meet this threshold.
The Shelter Associate (Regional Focal Point - Shelter/NFI Cluster) supports coordination functions in the Region to ensure UNHCR’s role as the Shelter Cluster (SC) Lead Agency under the Cluster Approach. The incumbent supports UNHCR’s commitment to work within the framework of the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) and the Cluster Approach. The Regional Cluster Coordinator- Shelter/NFI (Shelter Associate) also contributes to cross-sectoral coordination with other related clusters in the Region such as WASH, CCCM, Protection (HLP) and others, supports the mainstreaming of early recovery activities and cross-cutting issues into the work of the Shelter Cluster, especially age, gender, diversity, HIV, and environment.
2. Purpose and Scope of Assignment
The Shelter Associate (Regional Focal Point - Shelter/NFI Cluster), with assistance from the Regional Co-Chair and National Cluster Coordinator, will have the following functions:
a) Representing the ES/NFI Cluster at Regional national level with the regional government authorities, state representative’s institutions, local and national organizations, and donor agencies.
b) Support National Cluster coordinator by providing inputs and information, such as Identifying topics that need special attention at the national cluster level.
c) Lead the Regional Cluster in designing the regional (context specific) plans and in assessing needs and gaps.
d) Strive for a common understanding by all cluster members of the cluster’s needs, to ensure that the targets are met.
e) Call regular meetings as required to discuss regionally adapted targets, debate on challenges, monitor progresses, and detect gaps and overlaps with all relevant cluster members active in their respective areas.
f) Encourage timely and accurate reporting by all the cluster members. Ensure that ES/NFI partners in the region are reporting their activities into Report hub platform.
g) Promote attention to vulnerable groups and cross cutting issues.
h) In conjunction with the national coordinator, advocate on funding and materials needs for partners to address identified gaps.
i) Promote good practice within the ES/NFI Cluster, including participatory approaches.
j) Represent the interests of the Regional Cluster in internal strategic and planning discussions with the lead agency, UNHCR.
k) Liaise with the local IDP Taskforce (or its equivalent), if one is in operation in the region, to minimize duplication of approach and give Cluster clear updates on how the two interact in responses.
l) Contribute to the preparation and revision of contingency planning and preparedness processes at regional level.
m) Disseminate, promote the use of and explain the use of strategic tools produced by the cluster (e.g., common needs assessment tools, monitoring tools, ES/NFI strategy, technical guidelines)
n) Identify new partners and share information with them.
o) Manage a contact list of ES/NFI actors working in the region and ensure that their representative at the national level register on Cluster mailing list found on the cluster’s Website.
p) Ensure that an up to date stock list of materials available from agencies in an emergency. (On a Monthly basis) is maintained and report any gap to the Cluster Coordinator
q) Provide inputs and advice to the Information Manager in relation to the needs and requirements of the Regional Cluster, such as maps, processing of assessment information and sharing stocks and 3w’s.
r) Liaise with other Regional ES/NFI Clusters to maximize coverage with support for displaced populations (new influxes, returnees) who move between zones. Ensure clear and consistent communication between regional clusters on any matters pertinent to the relevant clusters.
3. Monitoring and Progress Controls
(Clear description of measurable outputs, milestones, key performance indicators and/or reporting requirements which will enable performance monitoring)
No. Responsibilities Actions/Activities Results
1 Lead the Regional Cluster in designing the regional (context specific) plans and in assessing needs and gaps. - Contributing to the Humanitarian Response Plan with key regional context needs and gaps.
- Leading the Regional cluster in designing Reponses that are tailored to meet the needs of the persons of concern in the Region HRP inputs, assessment reports and gap analysis that reflect the actual situation in the Region
2 Call regular meetings as required to discuss regionally adapted targets, debate on challenges, monitor progresses, and detect gaps and overlaps with all relevant cluster members active in their respective areas. -Chairing monthly meetings of the sub-national ES/NFI Cluster
-Taking minutes and tracking action points
-Sharing key points with the National Cluster coordination for information and action -Minutes
-Key Issues raised and acted upon
-Key issues escalated to the National Cluster coordination
3 Encourage timely and accurate reporting by all the cluster members. Ensure that ES/NFI partners in the region are reporting their activities into Report hub platform. -Coordinate to have refresher Report hub trainings done for new partner staff.
-Ensure all partners in the Sub-National Cluster share their reports in a timely and accurate manner
-Verify information and reports received to ensure that we have accurate data of high quality -Improved quality of data received in Report hub
-Increase in the number of partners and activities reported in Report hub
4 Promote good practice within the ES/NFI Cluster, including participatory approaches. -Conduct participatory assessments
-Conduct satisfaction surveys
-Set up feedback and complaints mechanism at the regional level -Participatory assessment reports that will lead to improved Reponses
-Satisfaction indicators to guide areas of improvement in the cluster
-Improved solving of complaints and incorporating of feedback in the responses
5 Liaise with the local IDP Taskforce (or its equivalent), if one is in operation in the region, to minimize duplication of approach and give Cluster clear updates on how the two interact in responses. - Meeting with local authorities and participating in relevant meetings
- Coordinating and updating partners on the responses within the region to avoid duplication
- Acting a liaison between the Sub-National Cluster partners and the relevant Government arms -improved information sharing
-Avoiding wastage of resources that may arise due to duplication
-Enhanced working relationship with the local authorities
No. Responsibilities Actions/Activities Results
6 Contribute to the preparation and revision of contingency planning and preparedness processes at regional level. -Coordination and chair contingency planning meetings at Regional Level.
-Consolidate inputs the Sub National Cluster to the contingency plan Contingency Plans that factor in the regional context
7 Disseminate, promote the use of and explain the use of strategic tools produced by the cluster (e.g., common needs assessment tools, monitoring tools, ES/NFI strategy, technical guidelines, etc.). -Conduct trainings or information sharing sessions of strategic tools produced by the cluster
-Share inputs/comments from the Sub National Cluster members on the cluster strategic tools available
-Ensure representation of Sub National Cluster members in various TWIGS set up for update/development of ES/NFI Cluster Strategic tools
- Ensure responses in the Region are in line with the cluster’s strategic tools A more strategic response that achieves tangible outcomes in line with the Cluster tools and strategy.
8 Identify new partners and share information with them. -Introduce and train new partners
-Ensure due processes of registering new partners are followed
-Capacity build local partners New partners Reponses are in line with the HRP and cluster strategies.
9 Manage a contact list of ES/NFI actors working in the region and ensure that their representative at the national level register on Cluster mailing list found on the cluster’s Website. - Maintain and update a Sub National Cluster member contact list
- Share with the National Cluster coordination updated contact lists regularly for update in the clusters website and relevant platforms
Up to date contact lists of ES/NFI Cluster members
10 Ensure that an up to date stock list of materials available from agencies in an emergency (monthly) is maintained and report any gap to the Cluster Coordinator - Regularly Consolidate stock list of ES/NFI materials with Agencies in the Region
-Share the consolidated stock list with the cluster coordinator monthly
- Raise any gaps to the National Cluster in a timely manner to avoid challenges in the event of an emergency Up to date stock list of materials maintained and gaps reported in a timely manner
11 Provide inputs and advice to the Information Manager in relation to the needs and requirements of the Regional Cluster, such as maps, processing of assessment information and sharing stocks and 3w’s. -Share regular inputs with information managers as and when needed.
-Support in collection of data and information required by information managers Up to date information management products that reflect the actual situation on ground
4. Qualifications and Experience
(List the required education, work experience, expertise, and competencies of the individual contractor. The listed education and experience should correspond with the level at which the contract is offered.)
a. Education (Level and area of required and/or preferred education)
Undergraduate degree, preferably in shelter-related sciences (e.g., civil engineering or architecture) or other relevant fields including international law, social sciences, political science, or international relations.
b. Work Experience
(List number of years and area of required work experience. Clearly distinguish between required experience and experience which could be an asset.)
Essential
• Three years of relevant experience in the field of shelter/NFI cluster coordination, inter-agency approach, and humanitarian assistance especially in conflict or post-conflict areas.
• Experience in coordinating responses with specialized international agencies (UN Agencies, International Organizations, and International specialized NGOs) and in complex humanitarian operations, including conflict and post-conflict situations.
• Knowledge of the Humanitarian reform process and the role of the humanitarian community (UN System, Red Cross Red Crescent Movement, and NGO), preferably in shelter.
• Knowledge of current humanitarian issues.
• Good knowledge of shelter-related technical guidelines and standards.
• Good communication skills.
Desirable
• Applied knowledge in UNHCR mandate, its policies, and priorities in relation to IDPs, shelter and NFI. Demonstrated expertise in program management and reporting requirements.
• Experience working in the Provinces in the Region
c. Key Competencies
(Technical knowledge, skills, managerial competencies, or other personal competencies relevant to the performance of the assignment. Clearly distinguish between required and desired competencies)
Functional Skills
MG-Coordination
PR-Cluster Information Management Tools, Resources and Approaches
PR-Country Operations applying the Cluster Approach
ER-Inter-Agency Coordination Mechanisms
MS-Drafting, Documentation, Data Presentation
SP-Shelter Assessment including survey/implementation/monitoring/evaluation/coordination.
PR-Global Shelter Cluster Strategy
IT-MS Office Applications
Core Competencies
Accountability
Communication
Organizational Awareness
Teamwork & Collaboration
Commitment to Continuous Learning
Client & Result Orientation
Managerial Competencies
Empowering and Building Trust
Judgement and Decision Making
Managing Resources
Cross-Functional Competencies
Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
Planning and Organizing
Stakeholder Management
Shelter Associate
Organizational Setting and Work Relationships
The Shelter Associate provides support in carrying out comprehensive sectoral needs assessments in liaison with other relevant sectors such as protection, programme, community services, public health, WASH, administration and supply. To ensure the most effective response, both quantitative and qualitative data should be gathered on the profile/needs and living conditions of both the displaced population and host community. The incumbent will assist in the day to-day operations of all construction and general infrastructure projects within the Area of Responsibility (AoR) to ensure that works proceed as designed and comply with established standards and procedures for the full project cycle.
Close and regular contact is maintained with technical and non-technical staff of shelter sector members, national and international NGOs and Government Authorities. The Shelter Associate normally reports to a more senior shelter colleague.
The incumbent assists the supervisor in ensuring that shelter & infrastructure responses within the AoR evolve according to the changing nature of the situation, progressively working towards more durable solutions and drawing from sustainable local building practices and materials. S/he provides technical assistance in general infrastructure planning, design and construction monitoring.
Within an urban context, it is essential that shelter responses take into consideration urban planning strategies, including an analysis of residential areas, housing affordability and availability. In addition, regardless of the context, shelter assistance should at all times minimize the risk of harm, eviction, exploitation and abuse, overcrowded living conditions, limited access to services and unhygienic conditions. Special attention must be given to the environment and low carbon approaches, attention to material selection through sustainable means to ensure a green approach to shelter delivery.
All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.
Duties
Technical Guidance
- Assist in carrying out shelter needs assessments while liaising with other relevant sectors such as protection, programme, community services, WASH, administration and supply.
- Work with the relevant stakeholders to ensure that the shelter beneficiary selection process prioritises the needs of the most vulnerable Persons of Concern (PoC).
- Assist the supervisor in developing and updating shelter strategies to reflect evolving situations and ensure alignment with national and global level policies and guidelines including: Global Compact on Refugees, Sustainable Development Goals, Relevant Global Strategies and Policies.
- Provide support in the daily management of all construction and infrastructure projects within the AoR ensuring that works are carried out in compliance to established UNHCR and national standards/best practices for the full project cycle.
- Follow up the design and construction of infrastructure (schools, health centres, reception centres, drainage and roadworks etc) to confirm these are approved by the relevant authorities, technically sound, supplemented with accurate drawings, detailed BQs and specifications and implemented according to plans, completed within designated timelines, budget and ensure that this information is shared with relevant colleagues.
- Work closely with other relevant sectors such as WASH, education and health so that shelter and infrastructure implementation is synchronised and coordinated.
- Assist implementing partners on sound technical shelter and settlement issues while ensuring compliance with national and global standards, national and operational strategies and guidance.
- Coordination
- Provide technical support in the field of shelter, construction and infrastructure development within the AoR to best meet the needs of PoC.
- Assist in coordination and management of UNHCR's shelter and infrastructure interventions in a timely, cost-effective, inter-sectoral manner. Work with the government and relevant authorities and counterparts to ensure strong coordination and partnership.
- Participate, as technical focal point within the AoR for shelter/infrastructure, in coordination meetings with various stakeholders including Government counterparts to ensure UNHCR's interests and those of the PoC are adequately reflected and disseminate information to all stakeholders in a timely, efficient manner.
Collaboration
- Assist Programme in reviewing technical components of the Project Partnership Agreements that contain any construction and infrastructure projects.
- Actively work with Programme as a member of the Multi-Functional Team in the Operation and regularly participate in multi-sectoral activities to ensure protection and assistance needs of the population are met.
- Provide support in the preparation of bid documents for all construction and infrastructure projects including technical specifications, BoQs, drawings, etc.
- Assist in the technical evaluation of received bids as well as in the review/inspection of the quality of shelter and infrastructure products/works.
- Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).
- Perform other related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For G6 - 3 years relevant experience with High School Diploma; or 2 years relevant work experience with Bachelor or equivalent or higher
Field(s) of Education
Not applicable.
Certificates and/or Licenses
Civil Engineering; Architecture
Relevant Job Experience
Essential
Knowledge of SPHERE standards and the ability to use basic survey equipment, digital cameras, and computer equipment. Experience in developing shelter and settlement need assessments and undertaking gap analysis for development of shelter programs.
Desirable
Knowledge of UNHCR shelter standards, as well as standards related to protection, environment and land use. Knowledge of a range of shelter assistance options, including sensitivity to cultural and gender specific needs to ensure that the social and cultural background of PoC is taken into account while designing and developing shelter options. Knowledge of computer graphics, AutoCAD and mapping software as well as the capacity to use mapping tools (GPS), and digital photographic equipment, and related software (map info etc.).
Functional Skills
SP-CAD 3D modeling for Settlement Analysis (eg. Infraworks, Civil 3D)
CO-Drafting and Documentation
SP-Shelter and Infrastructure Coordination
IT-Computer Assisted Design Software (e.g. AutoCAD)
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)
Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.
All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power.
As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.
This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.
,
,
,
,
SkillsCO-Drafting and Documentation, IT-Computer Assisted Design Software (e.g. AutoCAD), SP-CAD 3D modeling for Settlement Analysis (eg. Infraworks, Civil 3D), SP-Shelter and Infrastructure Coordination
Education
CertificationsArchitecture - Other, Civil Engineering - Other
Work Experience
Other informationDue to the volume of applications manager requested for Eliminatory type of written test.This position doesn't require a functional clearance