Mission and objectives

The fundamental mission of UNICEF is to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything the organization does — in programs, in advocacy and in operations. The equity strategy, emphasizing the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families, translates this commitment to children’s rights into action. For UNICEF, equity means that all children have an opportunity to survive, develop and reach their full potential, without discrimination, bias or favoritism. To the degree that any child has an unequal chance in life — in its social, political, economic, civic and cultural dimensions — her or his rights are violated. There is growing evidence that investing in the health, education and protection of a society’s most disadvantaged citizens — addressing inequity — not only will give all children the opportunity to fulfil their potential but also will lead to sustained growth and stability of countries. This is why the focus on equity is so vital. It accelerates progress towards realizing the human rights of all children, which is the universal mandate of UNICEF, as outlined by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, while also supporting the equitable development of nations.Context

This United Nations Volunteers (UNV) assignment is part of a UNICEF project. Under the general guidance and professional oversight of the Construction Manager, the incumbent will be responsible for managing and monitoring education construction activities in Afghanistan, primarily school infrastructure, in close coordination with the Education Section. The Expert will provide high-quality technical guidance on appropriate building technologies, particularly in provinces prone to natural disasters and conflicts. They will promote good business practices and ensure that projects serve the best interests of local communities through a community-based approach to construction. The Expert will engage with key stakeholders, including the Education Section, engineering consultancy firms, contractors, and community-based structures. They will oversee the full scope of work, ensuring timely completion with high-quality standards in accordance with UNICEF procedures and guidelines.Task Description

Summary of key functions/accountabilities: 1- Collaboration with UNICEF Programmes/Operations 2- Preparation of design and technical documents 3- Support the contracting process for Construction work 4- Monitoring of construction projects 1- With UNICEF Programmes/Operations and coordination with Government counterparts • Provide technical backstopping and support in matter of construction project management to Programme/ Operations sections; contribute with Programme sections in developing child-friendly community infrastructure development program proposals; provide information to Programme on construction related activities to include them in their AWP. • Provide assistance to Programme /Operations sections through involvement in construction project proposals, planning, and preparation of relevant terms of reference; analyze the project context and suggest the appropriate implementation and procurement modality. • Attend steering and technical cooperation meetings; prepare PPT presentations on projects’ progress; undertake follow-up actions in relation to project implementation and monitoring. • Provide Programme/Operations sections with information on projects’ progress; undertake appropriate actions to overcome technical obstacles; draft relevant sections of project reports required for donors, management, annual reports, etc. 2- Preparation of design and technical documents • Prepare the scope of construction works based on Programme/ Operations requirements, budget and site limitations; define deliverables and payment modality. • Apply UNICEF norms and standards (child-friendly, accessibility, MOSS, MORSS, etc.) to construction projects, taking into consideration the local environment and available materials; verify if compliance with green building standards is required in coordination with DFAM Field Support Unit. • Check technical documents related to construction (design drawings, technical specifications and bills of quantities); verify whether they are clear, complete and compliant to programmatic and construction needs, eco-efficiency and accessibility requirements; undertake the actions required to endorse these technical documents by relevant ministries. • Follow up with the designing firms and government entities for obtaining all permits required for construction activities prior initiating works. 3. Support the contracting process for Construction work • Provide support to Supply section with preparation of LPA requests and CRC submissions with supporting documents related to construction activities. • Prepare tender documents in relation to construction works and engineering services; attend bidders’ conference and present the technical components of the tender; prepare answers on technical questions raised by the bidders during the tendering. 4. Monitoring of construction projects • Conduct the kick-off meeting of construction works with the construction company, the engineering firm and relevant government counterparts. • Provide close monitoring on construction activities by undertaking regular site visits and conducting regular technical meetings including joint monitoring with relevant Government technical services; follow up progress for each activity per milestones and review site supervision reports to ensure work compliance with norms, standards, and timeline; verify quality and precautions on health and safety standards on ground. • Use effective monitoring and supervision tools to ensure easily assessment of works quality, progress, and performance of engineering firms and construction companies during the entire duration of the project; apply multi-layered approach to construction supervision and quality assurance; use documented hold and inspection points, where applicable. • Certify payments/variations and compile supporting documents; monitor construction expenditures and progress certificates; prepare and maintain relevant table for each construction activity. • Provide support to UNICEF Contract Administrator on contract management, amendments, variations, duration extensions, applying liquidated damages, etc. Ensure all documents/information required for contract management are available, complete and properly archived. • Participate in the partial, substantial and final reception of works after verifying the correction of all defects during the DLP; prepare and issue relevant certificates.Competencies and values

• Builds and maintains partnerships • Demonstrates self-awareness and ethical awareness • Drives to achieve impactful results • Innovates and embraces change • Thinks and acts strategically • Manages ambiguity and complexity • Works collaboratively with othersLiving conditions and remarks

Afghanistan is a unique country, and UNICEF’s humanitarian operation is equally distinct, presenting both opportunities and challenges. The operational environment is complex, shaped by ongoing humanitarian needs, security concerns, and logistical constraints. Despite these challenges, working in Afghanistan offers a deeply rewarding and enriching experience for those committed to making a tangible impact. Due to the prevailing security situation, international staff are required to live within a secured compound, with movement restrictions in place to ensure safety. This setting demands a high level of adaptability, resilience, and cultural awareness. Living and working in a confined environment with limited personal freedoms requires patience, teamwork, and the ability to maintain morale in challenging circumstances. Success in this role requires not only professional expertise but also flexibility and a strong commitment to UNICEF’s humanitarian mandate. The ability to operate effectively in an environment with physical hardships, restricted movement, and limited access to everyday conveniences is essential. Those who thrive in such conditions will find the experience deeply meaningful, as their contributions directly impact the lives of children and communities in one of the world’s most complex humanitarian contexts. You can check full entitlements at the duty station at https://app.unv.org/calculator. The complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service is available at https://explore.unv.org/cos.”