WASH Associate

Contract

This is a LICA-6 contract. This kind of contract is known as Local Individual Contractor Agreements. It is normally only for nationals. It's an external contract. It usually requires 6 years of experience, depending on education. More about LICA-6 contracts.

Background Information - Job-specific

Since 2012, UNICEF Jordan Country Office has been playing an integral part of the humanitarian response for Syrian refugees in Jordan. As WASH sector lead, UNICEF is leading the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Promotion humanitarian assistance to the refugees in camps. Zaatari Refugee Camp is among the main locations where UNICEF is providing humanitarian WASH assistance which hosts nearly 80,000 refugees. In Zaatari refugee Camp, UNICEF is providing water at a daily average of 4,000 m3 (with variances across the seasons in a year). This is provided through three boreholes operated within the camp and a variety of external water resources, namely water trucking or water from the nearby Za’atari pump-station, which contribute to cover the from the internal sources to cover the total water demand. Currently, water is pumped from the three boreholes to the distribution points through main pipelines and pump stations. From there, water is being distributed across the different districts and zones within the camp, following a – on average – weekly schedule. To ensure fair distribution of water, families who are not able to access the allocated quantity of water through the network, a feedback and complaints mechanism is in place. In addition to water supply, UNICEF is also managing wastewater networks which collect a daily amount of 2,000 to 2,500 m3 through main pipelines and two pump stations. Within the wastewater network, about 3,000 Prefabricated Reinforced Concrete tanks-septic tanks exist where the majority of the solid and sludge is retained and from which sludge is being transferred outside the camp, for final safe disposal. Moreover, the collected wastewater is being pumped on a 24 hour basis to the wastewater treatment plant at the edge of the camp. To ensure maintaining the quality and effectiveness of the services provided, UNICEF has an independent field team to conduct daily monitoring of the major UNICEF supported service delivery projects in the camp. This structure has not only helped to maintain the quality of results, but also enhanced a cordial relationship between right holders and duty bearers, particularly in the area of WASH. WASH operations in Za’atari camp are closely coordinated with UNHCR and the Syrian Refugees Affair Department (SRAD) as well as with other sections within UNICEF to ensure integration across programmes.

Functional Responsibilities

Under the Supervision of the WASH Specialist/ WASH Officer, the WASH Associate is expected to fulfil the following tasks and responsibilities: 1. Supervise field level implementation and coordination to secure the delivery of safe and sufficient water to Zaatari camp residents.

• Prepare water demand projection in the camp throughout the year and arrange to secure needed amounts through the various water sources (internal BHs extraction, water from utility provider/public network, and water trucking).
• Track and monitor the actual delivered quantities of water from the various water sources on a daily basis.
• Identify disparities between projected/actual quantities, investigate causes, and address accordingly to achieve the most efficient use of water.
• Update and manage the master list of truck drivers and report any misbehaviors or illegal driving actions to UNICEF and SRAD if needed.
• Tracking expenditure for water received through public networks (from Yarmouk), external water trucking, and extracted water from UNICEF-operated BHs.
• Work closely with the other WASH colleagues (operation, community mobilisation, and hotline) to address complaints pertaining to insufficient supply of water to Zaatari residents, NGO site, SRAD, etc.
• Monitor the stand-by truck to compensate for the valid complaints of water shortage.
• Lead and coordinate jointly with the team on the water supply violations and track actions taken including all coordination with UNHCR &SRAD.
• Responsible for the implementation of the Water Quality Plan, for testing water across the water supply infrastructure, i.e., boreholes, pump stations, household levels, and for external water sources and received water through trucking. Identify and recommend changes and / or updates in the plan as required.
• Close follow up with the Ministry of Health representative in Mafraq for the implementation of the Zaatari Water Quality Plan to ensure that quality of water received through different sources falls within acceptable national standards.
• Manage the water quality checkpoint at the Camp Gate completely and ensure tracking and quality testing for all coming trucks, Prepare daily and weekly reports on water market and gate checkpoint quality sampling and testing.
• Ensure that all water suppliers are delivering water from approved wells and according to national standards.
• Responsible for monitoring quality for all water trucking inside the camp including response to complaints, private supply, and institutions.
• Record and track all the required tests and samples for water quality parameters and ensure having proper documentation for all tests results and findings.
• Attend all operational and WASH meetings and contribute to the monitoring of water supply through trucking to NGOs and institutions inside the camp.
• Coordinate with SRAD on rejection of unapproved and contaminated water trucks at the gate.
• Track energy consumption (electricity) of the different WASH sites across Zaatari camp, in coordination with Humanitarian officers.
• Participating as WASH field focal point in the emergencies response when needed (coordination, prepare plans, attend meetings, implementation, presence in the field, distributions, etc.) e.g. COVID, cholera, winterization response.
• Working with the UNICEF Humanitarian unit to facilitate the required permits and with the contactor to ensure the logistical needs.

2. Supervise field level implementation and coordination of cleaning the Prefabricated Reinforced Concrete (PRC) tanks:

• Plan, monitor and track the implementation of PRC tanks cleaning activities, including liaison with contractors and other relevant stakeholders.
• Share daily progress updates and work closely with the other WASH colleagues (operation, community mobilisation, and hotline) to address related complaints.
• Tracking expenditure as per the agreement with the operations engineer according to the allocated budget to PRC cleaning and other related activities as per the BoQ.
• Conduct regular field inspection visits to monitor the quality and safety measurements are taken as per UNICEF’s standards.
• Arrange for the wastewater quality testing for PRC tanks.
• Working with the UNICEF Humanitarian unit to facilitate the required permits and with the contactor to ensure the logistical needs.

3. Monitoring on the use of consumables and spare parts by O&M contractor, including not limited to:

• Track and monitor the stock of spare parts, consumables and other items in the contractor’s warehouse.
• Track and manage the availability of space, according to agreed standards.
• Reviewing the contractor’s monthly balance sheets, conduct on spot physical checks, and identify disparities (if any), investigate causes, and address accordingly.
• Work closely with UNICEF WASH operations engineers for the items supply and quality checks.
• Work closely with the UNICEF Supply unit for the delivery (if needed)
• Track and monitor submersible pumps, T95 and generators inventory sheets and ensure continuous maintenance and safety stock.
• Track and monitor the diesel consumption for the generators, arrange for the preventive maintenance, and supply when needed.

4. Supervise field level implementation and coordination to ensure providing / delivering the WASH services to Garden camp residents.

• Track and monitor the performance of the contactor in providing the WASH services in Garden Camp (water supply, desludging trucks, water quality testing, needed maintenance works and streets cleaning)
• Identify disparities between agreed/actual provided WASH services, investigate causes, and address accordingly.
• Work closely with the other WASH community mobilisation, and hotline to address complaints pertaining to insufficient WASH service to Garden Camp residents, NGO sites, SRAD, etc.
• Arrange for the winterization response with the contractor to avoid any flooding of water in the rainfall season.
• Manage the community mobilisation works (messages / events / hygiene promotions / etc.) in relation to the WASH services.
• Update (if needed), and implement Water Quality Plan, for testing water across the water supply infrastructure, i.e., external boreholes, communal tanks, household levels, and receiving water through trucking. To ensure that the quality of water supplied to the camp falls within acceptable national standards.
• Tracking expenditure for WASH services provided through the contractor.
• Participating as WASH field focal point in the emergencies response when needed (coordination, prepare plans, attend meetings, implementation, presence in the field, distributions, etc.) e.g. COVID, cholera, winterization response.
• Working with the UNICEF Humanitarian unit to facilitate the required permits and with the contactor to ensure the logistical needs.

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.

Education/Experience/Language requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields is desired: public health,,, behavior change communication, climate change, environment,or another relevant technical field.
• Preferable degree in civil /Mechanical/ Water/ Environment Engineering.
• 6 years of experience is required.
• Additional relevant postgraduate courses that complement/supplement the main degree is a strong asset.
• 4 years of experience monitoring WASH operations with focus on water trucking, water quality, boreholes reporting and monitoring, and water supply distribution.
• Experience and knowledge in water quality national regulation of MOH and MOWI.
• Experience in emergency response and major logistics/ trucking operations.
• Experience in refugee camps and programs.
• Training courses in water quality testing and management is an asset.
• Computer skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint …etc)
• Knowledge of water quality testing and sampling methods and techniques.
• Fluency in both English and Arabic is required.

Contract type, level and duration

1. Contract type: ICA
2. Contract level: Local ICA Support, level 6
3. Contract duration: 12 months

For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link: https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx

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.