Organization Mission

UNDP’s Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (PAPP) derives its mandate from the United Nations General Assembly Resolution 33/147 of 20 December 1978. Called upon by United Nations Member States in that year, UNDP was requested “to improve the economic and social conditions of the Palestinian people by identifying their social and economic needs and by establishing concrete projects to that end”. UNDP/PAPP is a responsive development agency that works together with the Palestinian people to fulfil their aspiration for sustainable human development based on self-determination, equality and freedom.

Context

The Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation (MoPIC) is the central governmental body in Palestine responsible for strategic planning, policy formulation, and coordinating international cooperation efforts. Established to guide national development priorities, MoPIC plays a critical role in aligning government strategies with international standards and donor frameworks. Its mandate includes facilitating cross-sectoral planning, resource mobilization, and policy integration across various governmental and non-governmental stakeholders.

As part of UNDP support to MOPIC under the Italian-funded “Supporting Gaza Recovery, Reconstruction, and Development Planning”, a Gaza Reconstruction Unit (GRU) will be established. Operating under the umbrella of the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation (MoPIC), the GRU is tasked with translating the Gaza Recovery, Reconstruction and Development Plan (GRRP) into technical programs and projects. As part of this structure, the Urban Planning Expert will support the design and implementation of urban development frameworks, spatial plans, and community layouts that integrate housing, services, and infrastructure while addressing evolving population needs and urban resilience in the post-conflict setting.

Key Responsibilities

The Urban Planning Expert will serve as the lead technical focal point for urban planning and scenario visioning for post-war Gaza recovery and reconstruction efforts. The expert will:
• Lead the preparation and coordination of spatial planning frameworks and urban development plans aligned with the Gaza Recovery Plan.
• Provide technical inputs on land use, zoning, and site planning for transitional shelters, housing, and public services.
• Facilitate participatory planning processes engaging communities, municipal authorities, and civil society in the design of urban layouts and services.
• Conduct urban assessments to inform planning decisions, including demographic trends, displacement data, service accessibility, and environmental risks.
• Collaborate with sectoral experts in housing, infrastructure, governance, and social services to ensure coherent and integrated planning.
• Provide technical advice to MoPIC and partner ministries on sustainable urban development policies, including disaster risk reduction and spatial equity.
• Contribute to the development of guidelines and technical standards for transitional and permanent urban settlements.

Required Skills and Experience

• At least 5 years of experience in urban development, spatial planning, or post-conflict urban recovery, preferably in fragile or crisis-affected contexts.
• Proven experience with participatory urban planning methodologies, urban policy formulation, and integrated spatial design.
• Strong familiarity with urban governance and planning frameworks in Palestine, including local authorities’ mandates and planning instruments.
• Demonstrated ability to prepare urban assessments, master plans, or land-use frameworks aligned with government strategies.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in Arabic and English, including the ability to produce maps, planning documents, and policy briefs.
• Proficiency in GIS, spatial analysis tools, and urban planning software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp).
• Strong collaboration and facilitation skills; able to work effectively with public institutions, communities, NGOs, and technical partners.
• Resilient, adaptable, and solution-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight timelines.
• Desirable: Willingness to travel, when feasible, to Gaza or Cairo.

Core Competencies

• Strategic Thinking
• Accountability
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Planning and organizing
• Professionalism
• Self-management
• Communication
• Team building
• Innovation and Problem Solving

Living Conditions

As this is a national UN Volunteer assignment, the UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging his/her own housing and other living essentials. A 12-month contract with subsequent contract extensions subject to availability of funding, operational necessity and satisfactory performance. A Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of ILS 9,441 is provided monthly to cover housing, utilities and normal cost of living expenses. Life, health and permanent disability insurance are included (health insurance for up to 3 dependents), as well as Exit allowance for satisfactory service.