Job: Shelter and Settlement Handbook - Consultant

Location: Geneva
Description

Organization:
UN High Commissioner for Refugees
Country: Switzerland
Closing date: 31 Aug 2013
BACKGROUND
It is widely recognized that the definition of adequate shelter and settlement differs from one location to the next world-wide and that a standardized provision of sectorial assistance is possible only to a certain extent. It depends significantly on the variety of geographical contexts, climate conditions, cultural traditions, socio-economic dynamics, local practices and the availability of skilled labour and local materials of different communities within a disaster-affected population. A one size fits all solution does not exist, however it is of paramount importance to draw from lessons learned and strive to contextualize a response to suit a specific context.
While literature guiding a sectorial response is available, especially within organisations mandated to respond to crises generated by natural disasters, it is recognised that limited reference exists to guide a sectorial response which stems from conflict especially when these provoke cross border movement of population.
SCOPE OF PROJECT
With this in mind, it becomes evident that an easy reference to a collection of minimum international standards, sectorial approaches and good practices, remains crucial when called upon to design and develop shelter and settlement strategies and programmes.
To this end, UNHCR Division of Programme and Management Support, through the Shelter and Settlement Section, intends to produce the first UNHCR Shelter and Settlement interactive web platform (IWP) which aims to consolidate and homogenize the available information into a single resource kit which will broadly provide the following:
  • UNHCR shelter and settlement guidance
  • A collection of UNHCR shelter models used worldwide
  • An interactive exchange platform to facilitate idea sharing and problem solving amongst technical colleagues
The main objective is to develop a comprehensive guidance tool incorporating intelligible reference to basic principles, best practice, approaches and minimum international standards addressing a variety of potential shelter and settlement situations both in rural and urban settings.
The main activities to be carried out by the consultant under the leadership and guidance of UNHCR Shelter and Settlement Section are:
  • Complete a desk review of all relevant UNHCR Shelter and Settlement material and the external resources currently available with UNHCR and its partners.
  • Decipher any gaps in this data and outline any further research needed to satisfy the inclusion of all aspects of Shelter and Settlement in the platform.<br />
  • Design the structure of the platform's main body and tailor the various Modules in order of significance and related subjects.
  • Collate output of the desk review as per given platform structure and modules.
  • Collect number of successful and diverse UNHCR shelter and settlement project case studies in varying contexts incorporating lessons learnt.
  • Provide an initial proposal of content.
  • Lead organisation and management of a validation workshop with key informant within UNHCR multi-sectorial teams
  • Complete modifications of the content as stipulated by the validation team.
  • Produce the final draft of the content.
  • Develop a bibliography indicating all sources used and referred to in the platform content.
PROFILE OF CONSULTANT
  • Minimum 10 years in humanitarian operations, specifically working in shelter and settlement programmes in both an urban and rural context;
  • Experience in drafting technical guidance
  • Managing similar assignments, preferably from similar organizations
  • Working with UNHCR or other UN agencies involved in humanitarian or relief operations;
  • Working with various stakeholders, coordinating and managing discussions in an inclusive manner;
  • Research and analytical work in the field as well as desk reviews of shelter and settlement programmes and related subjects. Prior experience in countries with refugees is a significant advantage;
  • Institutional assessments in relation to design and implementation of shelter and settlement programmes;
  • Design of shelter and settlement solutions in varying contexts;
  • Conceptualising, formulating and writing guidelines for different audiences to enable and facilitate the use of technical software and systems;
  • Delivering high quality written outputs according to agreed deadlines including lessons learned reports, field assessments and related publications; and
  • Producing and editing technical guidelines.
The consultant is expected to provide the service of a multi-functional team which includes expertise in architecture and or related field, data management. In addition, strong communication, analytical and written skills are required.</p> <p>FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE REFER TO ATTACHED DOCUMENT
How to apply:
To apply, please submit your P11 and cover letter (max. 2 pages) by COB 31 August to the following address: <a href='mailto:hqsl00@unhcr.org'>hqsl00@unhcr.org</a> Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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