Technical Officer – Environmental, Social, Health and Safety Analyst- Retainer, Multiple positions

Job categories Health, Safety and Environment

Vacancy code VA/2023/B5104/27042

Department/office MR, AMMMCO, Amman

Duty station Beirut, Lebanon

Contract type Local ICA Specialist

Contract level LICA Specialist-9

Duration Retainer Contract

Application period 13-Nov-2023 to 20-Dec-2023

Applications to vacancies must be received before midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date of the announcement.

Please note that UNOPS will at no stage of the recruitment process request candidates to make payments of any kind.

This vacancy is closed.

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Background Information - Job-specific

The UNOPS Hub in Amman implements projects in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Syria and Yemen, in partnership with bilateral donors, national governments, and other UN agencies. With an established presence across the region, the office runs operations including large-scale procurement, project development, and technical management, and provides financial, human resources, and infrastructure-related services. The functional objective of UNOPS Hub in Amman is to deliver its projects in an efficient and effective manner and in line with the principles, rules and regulations of UNOPS, in order to support the response to the current needs and national priorities in the region.

UNOPS has been active in Lebanon since 2015, delivering projects in support of the Government of Lebanon and partners. Since the explosion at the Beirut Port on 4 August 2020, UNOPS has significantly scaled up its presence in the country to support the humanitarian response and both its presence and portfolio have undergone expansion.

Project Information:

The Project funded by the World Bank and Global Environment Facility (GEF) aims to support the Ministry of Environment (MoE) in Lebanon to reduce Unintentional Persistent Organic Pollutants (UPOPs) emissions and to improve solid waste management. The project will address critical barriers for reducing UPOPs emitted from the waste disposal and open burning processes by approximately 12% and minimise the adverse impacts to public health and environmental risks. In addition, the project will contribute to building the circular economy as a pathway for Lebanon’s green growth and sustainable development in the post COVID-19 era.

The Project comprises four components. UNOPS will implement the components 1, 2 and 3.

Component 1: Strengthen Regulatory Framework and Capacities for Sustainable Waste Management in the Circular Economy which aims to improve the policy framework, build capacity and long-term planning for applying a circular economy model in waste management.

Component 2: Demonstrations on 3R Practices (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) and Best Available Techniques/ Best Environmental Practices (BATs/BEPs) at Open Dumpsite in Selected Geographic Zones. This component aims to provide investments to demonstrate: (i) 3R practices to reduce waste entering dumpsites/landfills in selected Solid Waste serviced zones; and (ii) BATs and BEPs to eliminate open burning at selected dumpsites.

Component 3: Project Monitoring and Evaluation: This component encompasses Third Party Monitoring as part of monitoring activities.

Component 4: Project Management (to be implemented by the MoE).

The Project Management Unit (PMU), (assigned by the MoE) will be responsible for the overall management, procurement, financial and environmental and social management functions to be carried out and will provide needed operating costs associated with day-to-day project management and implementation.

Given that the PMU will be hosted at MoE, government contributions for this component will be leveraged through office space and other logistics for effective functioning of the PMU.
The proposed project will create a platform for piloting an Integrated Solid Waste Management approach towards a circular economy in the Solid Waste sector at the level of the selected serviced zones which are currently covered by facilities funded by the Government of Lebanon. Through this initiative, MoE will aim to upscale this approach to the level of all Solid Waste facilities (17 in total) in the country.

Functional Responsibilities

The Environmental, Social, Health and Safety (ESHS) Analyst will ensure that Com...

The Environmental, Social, Health and Safety (ESHS) Analyst will ensure that Components 1-3 of the Project are implemented by UNOPS in accordance with the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) and its 10 environmental and Social Standards (ESSs). In particular, the Analyst will oversee the implementation of the actions specified in the Environment and Social Risk Management instruments specified in the Project Environment and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP). The Expert recruited will report directly to the UNOPS Project Manager (PM) who will keep the PMU Project Manager informed.

Overall responsibilities

Ensure that the Project is implemented in accordance with the ESCP, most particularly the disclosed Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF), Labor Management Procedures (LMP), the Resettlement Framework (RF), and the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), as well as any subsidiary environmental and social (E&S) instruments prepared during Project implementation, such as Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs), Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), and Resettlement Plans (RPs).
Ensure that Project implementation is compliant with the relevant environmental and social policies, regulations and procedures of Lebanon.
Ensure that the Project’s E&S risk management is implemented as advised and instructed by the Project Steering Committee.
Assist the PM in the preparation of project work plans.
Assist the PM in day-to-day project implementation including the organisation of internal and external meetings.
Assist the PM in preparing for meetings, presentations, workshops, and any other events.
Support the PM in updating the Project risk register, issues log, highlight reports, and other requirements as per the UNOPS PMM.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Technical responsibilities

The ESHS Expert will perform the following duties:

Monitoring and Reporting

Prepare regular quarterly monitoring reports on the ESHS performance of the Project, including:

- Implementation of the ESCP.
- Status of preparation and implementation of E&S documents required under the ESCP.
- Stakeholder engagement activities.
- Status of the grievance mechanism, including grievance logs from workers and communities.
- Overall E&S performance of the Project.
- Compliance with ESSs during implementation of Project activities.
- Project-related accidents.
- Implementation plans for the project activities in the subsequent quarter.

Support the PM in preparing reports notifying the World Bank of any incident or accident related to the Project that has, or is likely to have, a significant adverse effect on the environment, the affected communities, the public or workers, as indicated in the ESCP.
Prepare a report on the incident/accident and propose specific time-bound actions and measures to prevent its recurrence.
Ensure that monthly ESHS reports are prepared by Contractors and Operators, which will be submitted by the PM to MoE to the World Bank upon request.

Environmental and Social Assessments

Ensure that the design and implementation of Project activities under Component 2 of the Project take into account the Environmental Health, and Safety Guidelines (ESHG) of the World Bank Group as required in ESS1, ESS2, ESS3 and ESS4, most particularly the General ESHG as well as the ESHG on Waste Management Facilities.
Ensure that the ToRs of consultants providing technical assistance for Component 1 activities (distinct from contractors) take into account relevant ESF requirements.
Prepare environmental and social screening forms for all subprojects under Component 2 of the Project, as per Annex A of the ESMF.
Prepare ToRs for subproject ESIAs, ESMPs and RPs, in line with the ESCP and the ESMF
Ensure that the ToRs for subproject ESIAs and ESMPs include ESHS specification for contractors that meet the requirements of the General ESHG and of the ESHG for Waste Management Facilities.
Support the PM in ensuring review of ToRs by the World Bank and their approval by MoE prior to solicitation of proposals for the same.
Oversee the preparation of subproject ESIAs, ESMPs and RPs by the selected consultants.
Review and control the quality of ESIAs, ESMPs and RPs before their submittal by MoE to the World Bank for review and clearance.
Oversee the preparation of final E&S instruments that respond to the World Bank’s review comments.
Support the disclosure by MoE of cleared ESIAs, ESMPs and RPs prepared for the Project.
Ensure that subproject ESIAs, ESMPs and RPs are cleared by the World Bank and disclosed by MoE before commencement of the related activities, as indicated in the ESCP.

Management of Contractors

Ensure that the relevant aspects of the ESCP, including the relevant E&S instruments, are incorporated into the procurement documents with contractors prepared by UNOPS, most particularly the ESHS specification that are included in the subproject ESIA or ESMP.
Ensure that each selected contractor prepares a Contractor ESMP (C-ESMP) that indicates the manner in which the Project ESHS specifications are in line with Annex 3 of ESS1.
Ensure that C-ESMPs take into account the UNOPS HSSE Procedures and Guidelines.
Review C-ESMPs and suggest modifications to ensure that contractors meet ESF and ESHG requirements.
Oversee the monitoring of contractor’s ESHS performance to ensure that contractors meet contracted ESHS specifications, through conducting field visits and spot checks.
Maintain a database of non-compliances with ESHS specifications for each contractor.
Report non-compliances to the UNOPS PM, recommend corrective measures, and monitor their implementation.
Monitor the implementation of corrective measures.

Labor Management Procedures

Ensure that Project activities are carried out in accordance with the LMP and the applicable requirements of ESS2.
Ensure that labour requirements are incorporated into the ESHS specifications of the procurement documents with contractors, including procedures relating to working conditions, terms of employment, non-discrimination and equal opportunity, restrictions on child and forced labour, and prohibition of sexual harassment and sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA/SH).
Ensure that contractor compliance with the LMP is monitored and that corrective action is taken in the event of non-compliance.

Occupational Health and safety

Prepare, clear, adopt, and implement Occupational, Health and Safety (OHS) measures in line with the national legislation and ESS2, particularly as it relates to COVID-19 preventive measures and OHS associated with civil works, contact with municipal wastes, hazardous wastes and gases, and fires in dumpsites and potential SEA/SH.
Promote safety and health in the work environment and shall require from Contractor/Operating firms to do the same, in accordance with the requirements of ESS2 and in a manner acceptable to the Bank.

Land Use Restrictions

Ensure that Project Affected Persons are compensated or resettled before the commencing of Project activities affecting them.

Stakeholder Engagement

Implement the SEP in a manner consistent with ESS10.
Ensure that the SEP is amended and updated as required during Project implementation.
Ensure that technical activities are coordinated with government agencies, local authorities, and relevant stakeholders.

Project Grievance Mechanism

Establish, maintain and operate a Grievance Mechanism (GM) as described in the SEP, including a referral pathway in the event of SEA/SH-related complaint using a survivor-centred approach with focus on confidentiality and anonymity.

Capacity Support

Oversee training to community groups and local authorities on:

- Stakeholder mapping and engagement.
- Specific aspects of the ESIA/ESMP that require feedback from the public and local authorities and for their own awareness so that community health and safety can be improved.
- Project Grievance Mechanism.

Oversee training for project personnel, contractors and workers on:

- ESIA/ESMP implementation.
- LMP, including Occupational Health and Safety.
- Emergency preparedness and response.
- Stakeholder engagement and the Project GM.
- GBV AND SEA/SH.

Oversee training on the implementation of ESHS specifications (e.g., working conditions, discrimination, OHS, grievance mechanism for workers, codes of conduct, community health and safety, and stakeholder engagement) to all contracted workers (including subcontractors).

UNOPS Guidelines and Procedures

Ensure that Project activities are implemented in accordance with UNOPS’ HSSE Procedures and Guidelines.
Ensure the preparation of weekly and monthly reports for infrastructure related activities, especially on OHS management, as per UNOPS HSSE Guidelines.
Ensure that UNOPS requirements are included in the procurement documents, to ensure that contractors are aware of the level of supervision and controls needed and can budget accordingly.

The ESHS Expert directly impacts on the achievement of project outputs by adhering to the Project Documents and UNOPS procedures, reducing risks, cutting costs and improving success rates. This consequently reinforces the visibility and image of UNOPS as an effective service implementing agency in project services and management and strengthens its competitive position as a partner of choice in sustainable development and project services.

Competencies

Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and enc...

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

Education: Master's degree or equivalent in Environmental Science/Studies, ...

Contract type, level and duration

Contract type: Local ICA Specialist Contract level: LICA-9 Contract duration: Re...

Additional Information

Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes. Applic...

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.
This position is stationed in Beirut, Lebanon, which is a family duty station.

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.

This vacancy is closed.

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