Mission and objectives

UNDP's mandate is to end poverty, build democratic governance, rule of law, and inclusive institutions. We advocate for change, and connect countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has partnered with Bangladesh ever since its birth and through its remarkable journey from a war-ravaged economy to a middle-income country. It remains a catalyst in Bangladesh’s journey from Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. UNDP assists in building institutions and helps strengthen institutional capacities through people-centric, pro-poor, inclusive and sustainable policy making and development governance.

Context

This United Nations Volunteers (UNV) assignment is part of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-DPHE funded Solid Waste Management and WASH improvement initiative being implemented by UNDP Bangladesh in Cox’s Bazar. The host agency, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is mandated to support countries in achieving sustainable development through capacity building, governance strengthening, climate resilience, and community-focused development interventions. The project aims to enhance safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and Materials Recovery Facilities (MRF) services and strengthen solid waste management systems in underserved communities of Bahar Chara Union under Teknaf Upazila. Key stakeholders include UNDP, ADB, local government institutions (Union Parishad and Upazila administration), implementing partners, and community groups. The intervention focuses on improving WASH infrastructure, promoting hygiene behavior change, MRF and developing environmentally sustainable waste management facilities. The WASH Engineer will support project planning, field monitoring, reporting, and coordination with stakeholders to ensure timely and effective implementation of project activities. UNDP has received funding to implement a project titled “Solid Waste Management and Healthcare Support Project in Rohingya Camps and Host Communities, Cox’s Bazar” The project is a response to the host communities in Bangladesh and the resulting pressing need for SWM in the host communities at Bahar Chara Union under Teknaf Upazila, Cox’s Bazar. Under the guidance and direct supervision of the International Project Manager- Solid Waste Management (IPM-SWM) and close coordination with the Project Associate-Engineer, the WASH Engineer will have the following scope of work: • Conduct in-depth monitoring of the construction works and prepare a work plan to ensure the project is completed on time • Assist the project Associate-Engineer and IPM in formulating and overseeing the implementation of the day-to-day project activities, strategies, and action plans for the engineering and livelihoods component, as well as the detailed evaluation, design, and construction of facilities under this project • Support and guide the Local Government, implementing partners in the Bahar Chara Union under the Teknaf upazila related to Engineering and Environmental activities. • Assist to Project Associate Engineer for the construction activities related to all type of construction works. • Assist the project management in evaluating, designing, and constructing waste management facilities and collecting and disseminating information between project staff and the government.

Task Description

Job Responsibilities (JR) 1: Support the Project Cycle : • Support the design phase of the project. • Assist in site selection, surveys, and preliminary environmental assessments for MRF • Prepare a work schedule in consultation with SWM Engineering team and IPM • Prepare a plan for budget allocation and transfer as required. • Support to other sector data analysis regarding waste collection, transportation, processing, and proper disposal in host communities at Bahar Chara union • Manage and monitor payment processing for local government/partners for infrastructure under LoA activities. • Support construction partners to ensure the quality of construction work on project sites. • Plan, design, BOQ and monitor MRF, public toilet at marketplace, School WASH Block construction in the project areas. • Establish and maintain efficient communication channels between Local Government, contractors, implementing partners, and UNDP. • Ensure proper handover of all SW Facilities to local authorities/INGOs/UN agencies. • Assist the SWM team in identifying and reporting the issues/challenges related to project implementation and articulate corrective measures based on monitoring results to all project assistants in working locations. • Provide training & progress evaluation to IPs and involve local government authorities in SWM systems and SWM Infrastructure operation and management. • Assist the Project Associate and IPM-SWM in coordinating with Local Government/concern government department. • Assist the Project Associate and IPM-SWM in compiling infrastructure implementation and supervision of the project. • Coordination with DPHE authority and work closely with local government to ensure efficient and effective implementation of infrastructure activities. • Assist to Project Associate-Engineer to Identification and procurement of necessary equipment, materials, and construction work for the SWM systems and infrastructures (e.g., motorized vehicles, compressor, Bailer, Conveyor Belt, Waste Bin, etc.) • Any other related tasks as specified by the IPM-SWM. JR2: Ensure the monitoring of project activities: • Regular monitoring of construction activities: • Establishment and monitoring of Operation & Maintenance procedures of SW Facilities by the local government, IPs and plan for new activities. • Carry out monitoring visits to validate the project's progress and compile the progress and impacts of the project. • Work closely with the Local Government and contractor to develop a project monitoring framework. • Participate in monitoring project activities and based on the monitoring results, where necessary, suggest troubleshooting project problems and corrective measures to improve waste management. • Assist the SWM team in monitoring infrastructure activities per LOA and budget plans. • Assist IPM-SWM in ensuring quality assurance of the work and partner milestone requests for the implementation of the projects. JR 3: Support capacity building and knowledge sharing: • Contribute to building the capacity of other team members to ensure proper monitoring and evaluation of the projects. • Assist the project management team in preparing presentations and briefings, including performance monitoring charts and tables on all the results achieved by the projects or as deemed necessary for internal or donor reporting. • Assist in organizing and leading information dissemination, seminars, workshops, and meetings. • Facilitate “Learning and sharing” workshops for the stakeholders. • Ensure gender mainstreaming in the M&E and reports.

Competencies and values

• Accountability • Adaptability and flexibility • Creativity • Judgement and decision-making • Planning and organising • Professionalism • Self-management

Living conditions and remarks

Cox’s Bazar is a coastal district in southeastern Bangladesh, known for its long beach and vibrant local communities. The duty station offers a unique and enriching work environment, especially in humanitarian and development contexts, but also requires cultural awareness, adaptability, and resilience. The security situation is generally stable, although fieldwork may involve travel to remote or congested areas, requiring caution and adherence to UN security protocols. Access to Cox’s Bazar is possible via air travel from Dhaka, as well as by road, though travel times can vary due to road conditions and traffic. The climate is tropical, with hot, humid summers and a monsoon season; appropriate clothing and precautions are necessary. Cost of living is moderate, with availability of basic commodities, local markets, and limited international-standard services. Accommodation options range from UN-provided housing, guesthouses, or local rentals. Access to potable water, electricity, and food is generally available, though intermittent disruptions may occur in some areas. Medical facilities are available locally, with district hospitals and clinics, and more specialized care can be accessed in Chittagong. Banking, mobile network coverage, and internet services are available in urban areas. Cox’s Bazar offers a rewarding and meaningful work environment but may involve challenging conditions, including travel to remote locations, long working hours, and field exposure. Flexibility, stamina, and commitment are essential for effective work in this context. Full entitlements at the duty station can be checked at UNV Calculator, and the complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service are available at UNV COS.