Job Overview
Gender Specialist, Buildings Design and Construction (Remote, Retainer)
Are you a gender equality expert with a background in construction or architecture? The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) actively seeks a Gender Specialist Construction to provide crucial technical guidance for a project building women’s shelters in Türkiye. Consequently, this retainer-based, home-based position offers a unique opportunity to ensure that infrastructure projects are not only safe and functional but also meet the specific needs of women and girls. Working in partnership with UN Women and the Ministry of Family and Social Services, you will become a key part of a team delivering four new shelters, two of which are for earthquake recovery efforts. As a result, your expertise will directly influence the safety, security, and well-being of the shelters’ future residents.
What You Will Do as a Gender Specialist Construction
- Review Designs: You will review architectural designs and construction plans to ensure their gender-responsiveness. Ultimately, you will provide recommendations on everything from lighting and security to privacy and cultural sensitivity.
- Monitor Construction: As needed, you will monitor construction activities to ensure effective implementation of gender considerations. For instance, this includes conducting site visits and guiding contractors on gender-sensitive construction practices.
- Engage Communities: In coordination with UN Women, you will facilitate consultations with women and girls in affected communities. Your goal is to hear their voices and incorporate their needs into the final design.
- Build Capacity: Moreover, you will develop and deliver training programs for project staff and contractors on gender equality and gender-sensitive construction practices.
- Report Findings: In addition, you will prepare regular reports on the project’s integration of gender considerations and document best practices and lessons learned for future initiatives.

Gender Specialist
Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking a mid-level professional with a minimum of five years of experience in gender equality and construction.
Education & Experience:
- To begin with, you must have an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in gender studies, architecture, engineering, or a related field. We will also accept a bachelor’s degree with an additional two years of relevant work experience.
- You must have a minimum of five years of experience working on gender equality and women’s empowerment in the construction sector.
- Experience in designing infrastructure for survivors of violence against women and girls is a desirable asset.
- Working with international organizations or NGOs is a plus.
Skills & Knowledge:
- Furthermore, you must have fluency in both written and oral English.
- Knowledge of Turkish is a valuable asset.
- Finally, you must have a strong ability to work in a fast-paced environment, solve problems creatively, and communicate effectively.
Apply on the official website
FAQs for Gender Specialist Construction
Q1: What is a retainer contract?
A: A retainer contract means you will be on standby to provide services as needed, rather than working a fixed schedule. You will receive compensation for the work you complete.
Q2: Is this a remote position?
A: Yes, this is a home-based position. You will not work from a UNOPS office and must use your own laptop and software.
Q3: Is knowledge of Turkish required?
A: While not mandatory, knowledge of Turkish is a strong advantage given the project’s location. Fluency in English is required.
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