Job Overview:
The Infrastructure for Basic Human Needs in Afghanistan (IBA) Project focuses on fostering social and economic progress in Herat province, which was severely impacted by earthquakes in October 2023. This project prioritizes the construction and restoration of essential community infrastructure, emphasizing safety, earthquake resilience, and the principle of "building back better" while respecting local cultural norms. The project also incorporates a "Cash for Work" model to help restore livelihoods and stimulate the region’s economy, with broad participation from various stakeholders within the affected communities.
Job Requirements:
Reporting directly to the Project Manager and under the technical direction of the HSSE Officer, the Environmental and Social Safeguards Senior Associate will ensure project activities adhere to the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP), Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF), Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), and specific E&S instruments. The Senior Associate must frequently visit project sites for supervision and monitoring.
Key Responsibilities:
- Track the Project MIS to verify that Facilitating Partners (FPs) upload necessary ESS documents in line with the Project Operational Manual.
- Prepare reports, analyze findings, and share recommendations for ESS improvements with FPs.
- Conduct follow-up visits to ensure FPs improve ESS reporting, documentation, and implementation.
- Perform 60-70% on-site verifications of FPs' ESS requirements during project activities.
- Document field insights and provide regular training to FPs’ staff.
- Assist FPs in preparing Environmental and Social tools such as the E&S Management Framework (ESMF), Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), and Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS).
- Collaborate with the HSSE Officer to create training materials and conduct sessions on E&S compliance for UNOPS teams, FPs, and stakeholders.
- Ensure mitigation measures are developed based on E&S screening and field observations for each subproject, and incorporate them in RFPs and contracts.
- Verify that FPs maintain all required documentation related to E&S safeguards.
- Review E&S reports from FPs and submit them to UNOPS safeguards for submission to KfW.
- Participate in data collection, providing technical input for site-specific mitigation measures.
- Supervise E&S safeguard measures and prepare detailed monitoring reports.
- Ensure accurate ESS-related data in the MIS system.
- Provide guidance to FPs on addressing ESS-related issues reported by Third Party Monitoring Agents.
- Regularly inspect work sites and personnel for safety compliance and identify any hazardous practices.
- Investigate incidents (including near-misses), compile statistical reports, and recommend improvements.
- Maintain a safe work environment for all parties involved, including workers, UNOPS staff, and the public.
- Submit regular reports to the HSSE Analyst on E&S, health, and safety activities.
- Participate in site and kick-off meetings, offering training to contractors.
- Undertake additional duties as directed by the Project Manager.
Impact of Results:
The Environmental and Social Safeguards Senior Associate's effective performance will ensure project compliance with E&S standards, strengthening UNOPS’ partnership with KfW and reaffirming UNOPS' commitment to serving in challenging environments. Performance will be monitored according to a work plan developed with the supervisor.
Qualifications:
- Education: Secondary education required; a bachelor’s or advanced degree in Social Science, Development Studies, or related field preferred.
- Experience:Minimum of 7 years in Environmental and Social safeguards; experience with World Bank ESF and Occupational Health & Safety is required. Experience in infrastructure and cash-for-work projects is advantageous.
-Languages: Fluent in Pashto, Dari, and English.
-Competencies: Respectful, team-oriented, with strong analytical, adaptive, and problem-solving abilities. Able to communicate clearly and handle conflicts constructively.
Application Instructions:
1. Click the link below, select ‘Register and Apply’ if not registered with CTG.
2. Enter all required information and save your profile.
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4. Navigate to the “Vacancies” tab and select the desired vacancy.
5. Fill in your current employment, availability, and salary expectations.
6. Submit your application.
Application Link: