Architectural Specialist

job Description

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is seeking a qualified Architectural Specialist to contribute to the Harare Sustainable City Initiative (HSCI) in Zimbabwe. The initiative aims to improve the overall well-being, health, and security conditions of Zimbabwean citizens through better urban basic services, sustainable solid waste management, and the use of renewable energy systems.

Mission and Objectives:
UN-Habitat, established in 1975, focuses on promoting socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities, ensuring adequate shelter for all. The Architectural Specialist will play a vital role in the HSCI project, contributing to the development and implementation of sustainable waste management, clean energy solutions, and climate-responsive building material production.

Duties and Responsibilities

Project Development and Implementation for HSCI:
-Conduct sites assessment.
-Develop site plans and layouts for infrastructure and facilities.
-Design proposed architectural layouts and facilities in 2D and 3D.
-Assist in producing architectural designs and drawings for project facilities.
-Organize approvals for site planning, designs, and drawings.
-Supervise site development and construction for compliance with regulations.

Mainstreaming Urban Energy and Low-carbon Interventions:
-Provide support to incorporate urban energy and low-carbon interventions into UN-Habitat programs.
-Offer technical inputs on policy issues related to urban energy solutions.

Knowledge Management and Outreach:
-Document case studies on low-carbon urban practices.
-Prepare publications and outreach material for training, leadership, and policy development.
-Assist with external communication and social media activities.

Resource Mobilization and Stakeholder Engagement:
-Draft project proposals and concept notes for donors.
-Engage with stakeholders to explore partnerships, identify synergies, and discover investment opportunities.

Research and Reporting:
-Conduct research and analysis to improve and expand MCEC projects.
-Develop business models applicable in different settings.
-Generate periodic progress reports for HSCI projects.

Other Duties:
-Undertake any other duties consistent with the incumbent’s expertise.

Qualifications and Experience

-Minimum 3 years of experience in sustainable urban development and urban planning.
-Minimum 2 years of professional work experience in urban planning and design.
-Strong graphic representation skills and public space design experience.
-Experience in facilitating participatory workshops.
-Excellent oral and written communication skills.
-Proficiency in MS Office applications and email/internet.

Education:
-Bachelor's degree or equivalent in architecture, urban planning, or a related field.