Overview
The Shelter Associate provides support in carrying out comprehensive sectoral needs assessments and assists in the day-to-day operations of construction and general infrastructure projects within the Area of Responsibility.
Key Responsibilities
- - Assist in carrying out shelter needs assessments while liaising with other relevant sectors.
- - Work with stakeholders to ensure shelter beneficiary selection prioritises vulnerable Persons of Concern.
- - Assist the supervisor in developing and updating shelter strategies.
- - Provide support in the daily management of construction and infrastructure projects.
- - Follow up the design and construction of infrastructure to confirm approvals and technical soundness.
- - Work closely with other relevant sectors so that shelter and infrastructure implementation is synchronised.
- - Assist implementing partners on sound technical shelter and settlement issues.
- - Provide technical support in the field of shelter, construction and infrastructure development.
- - Assist in coordination and management of UNHCR's shelter and infrastructure interventions.
- - Participate as technical focal point in coordination meetings with stakeholders.
- - Assist Programme in reviewing technical components of Project Partnership Agreements.
- - Actively work with Programme as a member of the Multi-Functional Team.
- - Provide support in the preparation of bid documents for construction and infrastructure projects.
- - Assist in the technical evaluation of received bids and review/inspection of quality.
- - Support the identification and management of risks and opportunities impacting objectives.
- - Perform other related duties as required.
Required Experience
- 3 years relevant experience with High School Diploma; or 2 years relevant work experience with Bachelor or equivalent or higher.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.).
- Previous experience working with UN agencies, international NGOs, or other humanitarian actors is considered an asset, particularly in emergencies.
- Experience working in multicultural and international environments, collaborating effectively with both local and international teams, is highly valued.
- Demonstrated experience supporting or managing projects across their lifecycle, including planning, implementation, budget tracking, reporting, and monitoring and evaluation.
- Ability to develop work plans, manage timelines, coordinate resources, and ensure timely delivery of outputs.
- Experience contributing to Bill of Quantities (BoQ) development, cost estimation, and preparation of Terms of Reference (ToRs) and technical specifications.
- Exposure to tendering processes and quality control for shelter or infrastructure projects.
- Understanding of sustainable and adaptive building solutions, including temporary and transitional shelter, rehabilitation, and durable housing.
- Awareness of energy efficiency, winterization, and infrastructure rehabilitation considerations in crisis-affected contexts.
- Experience collaborating with implementing partners and supporting project agreement oversight, monitoring, and budget tracking.
- Capacity to liaise with local and national authorities to help align activities with broader response and recovery strategies.
Qualifications
- High School Diploma or Bachelor or equivalent or higher.
- Certificates and/or Licenses: Civil Engineering; Architecture