Call for Applications: Associate Settlement Planning Officer
Organization: UNHCR
Location: Bassikounou, Mauritania
Duration: 12 months
Advertisement End Date: 01/05/2025
Number of Assignments: 1
Volunteer Category: International UN Volunteer Specialist
Type: Onsite
Expected End Date: 30/04/2026
Organizational Background
Le Haut-Commissariat des Nations Unies pour les réfugiés (UNHCR) is dedicated to leading and coordinating international action aimed at protecting refugees.
Its primary objective is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees while implementing global protection programs and raising awareness about the conditions faced by displaced persons.
In Mauritania, UNHCR provides protection and assistance to approximately 65,000 Malian refugees and 9,000 urban refugees and asylum seekers.
Despite challenges, including the instability of the security situation in Mali, Mauritania adheres to an open-border policy and currently hosts nearly 280,000 refugees.
The UNHCR operation in Mauritania is aligned with global strategic priorities and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on protection, response, and sustainable livelihood solutions.
Position Overview
Under the supervision of the Senior Development Officer, the Associate Settlement Planning Officer (ASPO) will be responsible for designing, managing, and coordinating humanitarian settlement and infrastructure projects.
The incumbent will ensure these projects align with the Masterplan Approach to Settlement Planning, Climate Resilience, Environmental Sustainability strategies, and Sphere Standards.
Responsibilities:
- Coordinate with field colleagues across sectors including health, community services, livelihoods, and education.
- Manage the strategic monitoring and implementation of settlement and urban planning activities, particularly for the Hodh Chargui region and Mbera camp.
- Provide technical guidance on site planning to enhance community resilience and access to basic services.
- Analyze various settlement options to ensure they meet protection and service accessibility needs.
- Maintain effective collaboration among stakeholders and participate in inter-agency coordination on settlement planning and land issues.
- Develop contingency plans for population movements and ensure adherence to national legislation and environmental considerations in site selection.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Candidates must be between 18-80 years.
- Experience:
- A minimum of 3 years relevant experience in humanitarian settlement planning or infrastructure projects.
- Nationality: Candidates must be from a country other than the host country, Mauritania.
- Languages:
- French: Working knowledge (Required)
- English: Fluent (Required)
- Arabic: Fair (Desirable)
- Education: Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as Architecture, Urban Planning, or Civil Engineering. A first-level degree combined with relevant experience may also be accepted.
Competencies and Values
- Professionalism: Strong understanding of UNHCR operations; ability to handle sensitive information and liaise with diverse actors.
- Integrity: Commitment to ethical standards and decision-making that serves UNHCR’s interests.
- Teamwork: Ability to work across organizational boundaries and establish effective partnerships in a multicultural environment.
- Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to prepare clear reports and conduct presentations.
- Flexibility: Adaptability to live and work in challenging conditions; readiness to travel within the area of operations as necessary.
Desirable Skills:
- Experience with technical drawing software and tools such as AutoCAD and GIS.
- Professional experience in the humanitarian sector, particularly with refugees and advocacy efforts.
- Knowledge of social protection systems in Mauritania is an asset.
Living Conditions
Basic needs such as housing, medical care, and banking services are available in Nouakchott, Mauritania. The city offers essential amenities, and transportation is convenient.
However, alcohol consumption is illegal, and safety measures should be observed due to potential security threats.
Interested candidates who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply before the application deadline of 01/05/2025.
This is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects within a dynamic team dedicated to improving the lives of refugees and host communities in Mauritania.
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