Health, Safety, Social and Environmental (HSSE) Senior Analyst

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, supporting the successful implementation of its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world.  UNOPS supports partners to build a better future by providing services that increase the efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability of peace building, humanitarian and development projects. Mandated as a central resource of the United Nations, UNOPS provides sustainable project management, procurement and infrastructure services to a wide range of governments, donors and United Nations organizations.

Background Information – Kenya Multi Country Office
Located in Nairobi, Kenya, the Kenya Multi Country Office(KEMCO) manages a growing portfolio of engagements, including associated strategic and operational risks. The KEMCO sub-region currently consists of a portfolio of engagements in multiple countries in East and Southern Africa. This includes transactional projects in partnership with the Nairobi based UN Agencies, UN-Habitat and UNEP, and a portfolio of  infrastructure and development projects in Mozambique, Somalia, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Zambia, Uganda, Tanzania and several island states.

Background Information – Project Information
The Zantchito Skills for Jobs Programme supports the strengthening and practical implementation of Malawi’s Technical, Entrepreneurial and Vocational Education and Training (TEVET) policy towards economic improvement through human capital development. The Malawi Ministry of Labour (MoL) has set an overall vision for a modern TEVET system led by the government but working closely with productive sectors and industries and responding directly to the changing competence needs and qualification requirements in the labour market. Utilizing existing colleges, up to four Colleges of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) will be identified and supported to act as lead colleges for skills development in accordance with labour market needs.

UNOPS’s roles in this programme include the rehabilitation of existing buildings or construction of new buildings for the four TEVET centres as appropriate, the procurement of quality workshop equipment (including installation) and the development of a maintenance programme. These activities are funded by the European Commission (EC).

Purpose and Scope of Assignment:
The purpose of the HSSE Senior Analyst position is to provide technical expertise and support in the implementation of Health, Safety, Social and Environmental (HSSE) measures for the assigned project(s) in Malawi. The HSSE Senior Analyst will be responsible for ensuring compliance with relevant HSSE standards, guidelines, and regulations, and for promoting a culture of safety and environmental sustainability within the project(s). The scope of the assignment includes project implementation, technical assistance, project monitoring and reporting, stakeholder management and coordination, knowledge management, innovation, and personnel management. The duties of the HSSE Senior Analyst will include extensive travel to project sites as necessary to oversee, review and promote best HSSE practices. This position reports to the Country Manager, with a secondary reporting line to the HSSE Regional Specialist.

1. Project implementation:

• Support the development and implementation of HSSE plans, policies, and procedures for the assigned project(s) in accordance with UNOPS and donor requirements.
• Plan and conduct regular construction site inspections and support the project team in follow-up with responsible personnel to ensure findings are timeously closed.
• Provide technical guidance and support to project staff and contractors on HSSE-related matters.
• Ensure effective implementation of risk management strategies to minimize occupational hazards and environmental impacts.

2. Technical Assistance:

• Provide technical assistance to project teams on the implementation of HSSE aspects of project design, procurement, and construction activities.
• Monitor the implementation of Environmental and Social Monitoring and Management Plans (ESMPs) by contractors around project sites.
• Evaluate practices and procedures including risk assessments at construction sites to assess risks and adherence to UNOPS HSSE requirements.
• Advise on the selection and use of appropriate personal protective equipment and safety measures.
• Support the integration of HSSE considerations into project monitoring and evaluation activities.
• Support the recording and investigation of incidents (including near misses) to determine the cause and to propose improvements to processes in the future.

3. Project monitoring and reporting:

• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of HSSE measures on the project(s) and prepare regular reports on compliance, incidents, and corrective actions.
• Ensure adherence and compliance to the UNOPS HSSE reporting requirements of project HSSE activities to ensure effective monitoring of project performance.
• Analyze data and trends to identify potential risks and areas for improvement.
• Contribute to the development of project progress reports and participate in project review meetings.

4. Stakeholder management, coordination, and liaison:

• Collaborate with project stakeholders, including government authorities, contractors, and local communities to promote awareness and compliance with HSSE requirements.
• Coordinate with relevant authorities and agencies to ensure adherence to applicable HSSE regulations and standards.
• Participate in meetings, workshops, and training sessions to share knowledge and best practices on HSSE.
• Support and implement Corporate HSSE initiatives to support the improvement of HSSE culture at both Country Office and project sites.

5. Knowledge management and innovation:

• Stay updated on emerging HSSE trends, technologies, and best practices and identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.
• Share lessons learned, success stories, and innovative approaches related to HSSE with the project team and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development of HSSE-related guidance documents, tools, and training materials.

6. Personnel management:

• Provide guidance and support to project staff on HSSE matters, including training and capacity building initiatives.
• Foster a culture of safety, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement within the project team.
• Promote teamwork, collaboration, and a positive work environment among project staff.

Education:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, Engineering, Natural Science or a related field is required.
• A first university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the above-mentioned fields with two (2) additional years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree.
• Additional certifications or specialized training in HSSE management, risk assessment, incident investigation or related areas are desirable.