Urban Planning and Social Housing Specialist - Retainer

Contract

This is a IICA-3 contract. This kind of contract is known as International Individual Contractor Agreements. It is normally internationally recruited only. It's an external contract. It usually requires 7 years of experience, depending on education. More about IICA-3 contracts.

Background Information - Job-specific

UNOPS mission is to expand the capacity of the UN system and its partners to implement peacebuilding, humanitarian and development operations that matter for people in need. Working in some of the world’s most challenging environments, UNOPS vision is to always satisfy partners with management services that meet world-class standards of quality, speed and cost effectiveness.

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal of providing adequate shelter for all. UN-Habitat has been active in Iraq since 1996 under the Oil for Food Programme. After 2003, UN-Habitat was largely engaged in early recovery efforts, particularly those supporting internally displaced persons through the provision of shelter and reconstruction solutions. Since 2015, UN-Habitat has supported recovery and development efforts in war-affected areas by building a new core houses in-situ, rehabilitating damaged houses, infrastructure, marketplaces and agricultural water facilities; improving living conditions of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees; protecting HLP rights and securing tenure rights for vulnerable communities, providing vocational training and creating jobs for IDPs and returnees. In addition, UN-Habitat proactively and continuously advocates for promoting the law on informal settlements and the pivotal importance of this law to improve the living condition of the vulnerable displaced people affected by war or climate change-related issues. In line with this advocacy, UN-Habitat is implementing a pilot project in Basra city to upgrade three informal settlements by providing basic services and infrastructures for poor and vulnerable communities.

An overview of Iraq’s housing policies highlights that the public sector always had the main responsibility to physically provide housing, until the 2010 National Housing Policy which was more focused on developing enabling strategies. While some positive results were achieved in the 80s, the successive conflicts (Iran-Iraq War, Gulf War, US intervention, war against the so-called Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) and the UN sanctions (1990-2003) significantly affected the development of the housing sector. At the peak of the displacement crisis during ISIL’s occupation there were 6 million displaced within the country, mostly in urban and peri-urban areas. Many of the households that started to return to their areas of origin, experienced challenges, particularly tenants and those whose property is either occupied or damaged.

In 2018, the World Bank completed a multi-sectoral assessment on the destructive impact of conflict in seven Iraqi governorates which found that housing had been the most affected sector, with total damages amounting to around USD 16.1 billion. Over 138,000 residential buildings were thought to have been impacted, of which half were destroyed beyond repair. The severest impact was felt in the Ninewa governorate, followed by Salah al-Din, Anbar, Kirkuk, and Diyala. This last conflict aggravated an already chronic housing shortage that, already in 2010, was thought to be around 1.4 million housing units. An estimated 670.000 housing units were needed annually to accommodate the 3.1 percent population growth, which was well beyond the absorption capacity of the housing market.

Seven years after the official declaration of the ‘end of war against ISIL’ by the Government of Iraq, many families that had to their homes upon the invasion of Sinjar district in the Ninewa Governorate by ISIL in 2014, are still caught in protracted displacement, and face barriers to return, mainly due to severe damage to housing, lack of access to basic services, and lack of livelihood and employment opportunities.

The Ninewa Governorate still remains with the highest displacement population in Iraq although it has the highest number of returnees. Studies estimate that the pre-conflict population of the governorate was about 3.5 million people. According to the Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM), 2.6 million individuals were displaced; of these, 1.9 million (74%) have returned and 672,655 IDPs remain displaced. The governorate also suffered the most damage to its infrastructure, with 43 per cent of the reported damage to housing and 58 per cent of the total urban centre damage assessed by the World Bank.

While much progress has been made, the Iraqi’s government notes in its National Plan for Returning IDPs to their Liberated Areas (November 2020) that housing and infrastructure destruction, lack of basic services, lack of livelihoods, compounded by complex security and political issues, are the main reasons for why over half a million IDPs from Ninewa Governorate are still displaced. One of the primary areas of people’s origin is the city Mosul and most of those who have not been able to return to their properties are living in severe conditions, often in makeshift dwellings built in informal sites, raising concerns about the sustainability of returns.

Urgent assistance for integrated interventions focusing on shelter, basic services and livelihood opportunities is needed to encourage return of more IDPs, and more importantly, to prevent any secondary and protracted displacement – i.e. returnees not being able to stay in the areas of return due to the harsh living conditions they find themselves in, and are obliged to go back to IDP camps.

In response to the critical factors described above encouraging protracted displacement and undermining sustainable returns, UN-Habitat recently constructed the “Bab Sinjar Housing Complex”, comprising nine medium rise housing blocks, 324 housing units for approximately 2,300 people in Bab Sinjar, Mosul. The complex was realised under the project titled “Support to Reconstruction and Peacebuilding of Liberated Cities in Iraq”, funded by the Government of Japan, and which is now considered one of the best practices toward durable solutions for returnees.

Following the successful completion of the Bab Sinjar Complex in 2022 and in response to the urgent needs expressed by the local government authorities, UN-Habitat is aiming to construct another housing complex in Mosul under a new proposed project to be potentially funded by the Government of Japan,. A new project site has been identified by the local government authorities within an area located to the west of Mosul, earmarked as residential in Mosul’s Master Plan.

For this purpose, the UN-Habitat Iraq Programme is recruiting an Urban Planning and Social Housing Expert with low-cost housing and neighbourhood design experience.. This assignment will focus on conducting a research, assessment and feasibility study on the new proposed project site, including preliminary designs for the housing blocks that integrate the use of greener construction methods and materials (including innovative Japanese products), roads, streets and basic infrastructure to be complemented by public facilities such as schools, health centres, marketplaces, and parks.

Reporting Arrangements:

The incumbent will work under the supervision of Programme Management Officer - Human Settlements and/or his/her designate.

The incumbent is responsible to abide by security policies, administrative instructions, plans and procedures of the UN Security Management System and that of UNOPS.

UNOPS is committed to achieving a truly diverse workforce.

Functional Responsibilities

Within the delegated authority and under the supervision of Programme Management Officer - Human Settlements, and/or his/her designate, the Urban Planning Expert will be responsible for the following duties:

• Consult and coordinate with the local government authorities, including Municipality of Mosul and University of Mosul, local communities, and relevant UN sister agencies such as UNICEF to conduct the feasibility study of the new proposed project in view of the proposed housing complex as well as public facilities, open spaces and infrastructure.
• Conduct an assessment on the relevant legal, regulatory and institutional frameworks on social housing and medium to long term management arrangements.
• Conduct a situation analysis and elaborate for the local authorities the most suitable strategy for incorporating the new proposed project within the Mosul Master Plan.
• Draft and prepare background papers, analyses, reports and Briefs on the new proposed project and its most suitable phasing.
• Identify the risk associated with various technical, environmental and social aspects, including intervention modality, scale of building envelope, cultural norms to be respected, the phasing of the project, the adoption of greener building approaches, access and mobility of people with disabilities, safety and security concerns, user adaptation needs, etc, and suggest for each a mitigation approach (e.g. “eyes on street” approach.
• Support UN-Habitat to develop a Plan of Action to respond to the immediate and mid and long terms housing needs in Mosul and Ninawa governorate, drawing from UN-Habitat’s Initial Planning Framework for the Reconstruction of Mosul, published in 2018.
• Prepare recommendations for capacity development training of local government staff and potential beneficiaries who may be engaged in the design of public spaces and basic infrastructure, based on the findings.
• Support the local government authorities to address institutional, financial and legal impediments with regard to enabling the provision of social housing within the Mosul Master Plan.
• Through the research, contribute to the government efforts to address urban inequalities and improve the living conditions of Iraqi citizens within the Mosul Master Plan.
• Conduct a rapid assessment on selected informal settlement/s in Mosul to identify the pressing needs for housing, basic services and infrastructures.

Stakeholder engagement

• Maintain regular communication and develop relationships with stakeholders, including with the local government authorities, including Municipality of Mosul and University of Mosul, local communities, and relevant UN sister agencies such as UNICEF.
• Organize consultation meetings with key stakeholders at the national, governorate and district level on housing-related issues as required.
• Advice on legal, policy, and regulatory matters related to the new proposed project site.

Product/content development

• Produce an illustrated study and technical reports focusing on the most suitable approach for the realization of a multi-story social housing complex, integrated by public spaces, public facilities and basic infrastructure to be constructed alongside marketplaces and parks in the new proposed project site.
• Propose challenges accompanied by recommendations for the interventions, including the adoption of greener construction methods and materials and Japanese products to be installed.
• Produce an illustrated report on findings in selected informal settlements/s including housing conditions, availability of public services and infrastructures, road networks, security, demography, waste management, climate change and environmental related issues.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Outputs/Deliverables:

The incumbent is expected to submit the following deliverables in the course of his/her assignment:

• A set of research, assessment and study on the new proposed project site, including the adoption of

  greener construction methods and materials and Japanese products to be installed, and public

  spaces and infrastructure to be constructed together with the buildings such as schools, health

  centers, marketplaces, and parks.

• A set of rapid assessments and study on the selected informal settlement/s in Mosul, identifying the needs and priorities per neighborhood.

• Other reports as requested.

Competencies

Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization.(for levels IICA-2, IICA-3, LICA Specialist- 10, LICA Specialist-11, NOC, NOD, P3, P4 and above) Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.

Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles. Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role). Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries. Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements. Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving. Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground.

Competencies

Below are some of the functionalities.

Professionalism:

Strong conceptual skills. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery in the UN-Habitat focus areas of Urban Recovery, Urban Planning and Design, Housing and Slum Upgrading; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.

Teamwork:

Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Planning and Organizing:

Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

Education:

• A Master’s degree in housing, architecture, civil engineering, urban planning/management, urban design, social sciences, international development, public policy, economics or similar is required.
• A Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of experience will suffice in lieu of a Master's Degree.

Experience:

• Minimum of seven (7) years of relevant and progressive experience at the international level in areas related to research on policy development and policy design, related to urban development, urban design, urban planning, social housing, and similar areas is required.
• Advanced knowledge and expertise of the social housing sector especially in the Arab States Region, including experience in social housing policy formulation and programme management in developing countries is highly desirable.
• Experience in leading and coordinating multi-disciplinary technical teams of senior national and international experts in the framework of the housing sector is desirable.
• Experience in Iraq would be an asset.
• Experience in the elaboration of policy and technical guidelines related to the housing sector is desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting research and writing reports and assessments, preferably in the housing sector is required.
• Proficiency in English is required. Working knowledge in spoken and written Arabic is an advantage.

Desirable soft skills:

• Experience in establishing inter-relationships with counterparts and organizations.
• Good interpersonal, networking and communication skills.
• Willingness to contribute and work as part of a team.
• Experience in Iraq or the Arab States Region is an advantage.

Languages:

• English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position fluency in oral and written English is required. Fluency in Arabic Language is an advantage.

Additional Information

• Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
• Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
• UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
• Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
• We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.

Terms and Conditions

• For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.
• For retainer contracts, you must complete a few Mandatory Courses (they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. For more information on a retainer contract here.
• All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
• It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.