About Mercy Corps
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization powered by the belief that a better world is possible. In disaster, in hardship, in more than 40 countries around the world, we partner to put bold solutions into action — helping people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities from within. Now, and for the future.
• Mercy Corps responsibilities
For the duration of this internship assignment the intern will receive: all the trainings and capacity building to deliver the duties assigned to him/her.
• Intern responsibilities
Intern will remain responsible for all duties assigned to him/her based of trainings given by Mercy Corps- see the intern’s responsibilities below:
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The urban planning intern (Architect/Engineer) will provide technical support and facilitate the co-diagnosis, co-design, and co-construction processes of community corners within the project areas (Woodcamp, Shoe Factory, and Lakpazee in Monrovia). The Intern will also support the designing, planning, and construction of public spaces for community animation under the Urban Fabric Initiative. This role is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to gain valuable experience in tactical urbanism, community development, and the construction of public spaces within an international non-profit organization.
INTERN’S RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Assist the Infrastructure Lead Engineer in designing concepts for public spaces that support social interaction
2. Support the implementation of all infrastructure technical components of the UFI
3. Support monitoring and supervision of all external architecture and construction firms providing contractor services to the UFI
4. Develop projects and detailed drawings, technical specifications, selection of contractors, and site supervision.
5. Conduct frequent site visits to provide construction management supervision, including oversight of work onsite, materials testing, report development, verification of quantities
6. Implement progress monitoring tools related to construction activities, review progress, identify delays, and analyze the adequacy of resources
7. Provide feedback to the Monitoring and Evaluation system to assess the project’s effectiveness and impact and propose improvements
8. Leverage modeling and architectural tools to facilitate rendering and designs for UFI conceptualization.
9. Actively participate in program meetings, contributing to problem-solving and policy and strategic direction decision-making.
10. Work collaboratively with team members to achieve program outcomes
11. Be adaptable and flexible to take on new tasks and assignments as requested occasionally.
Qualifications:
• Active Senior Student or fresh graduate from an accredited and reputable university in architectural or building construction/civil engineering. Architect/Urban Planner preferred.
• Excellent communication and mobilization skills
• A demonstrated ability to multitask and process information into action in a timely manner
• A strong interest in urban planning, tactical urbanism, community planning, and development.
• Ability to use architectural modeling software and tools preferred.
• A proactive and flexible attitude with a willingness to learn and take initiative.
• Ability to use the following Microsoft Productivity tools: Excel and Word
• Ability to work with community members and structures and synthesize information into concepts and models.
• Fluency in English Language.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
• The intern will be expected to work 40 hours a week
• The intern will be paid a monthly allowance of 200 USD
Mercy Corps interns and volunteers represent the agency both during and outside of work hours and are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner and respect local laws, customs and Mercy Corps’ policies, procedures, and values at all times and in all in-country venues.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Achieving our mission begins with how we build our team and work together. Through our commitment to enriching our organization with people of different origins, beliefs, backgrounds, and ways of thinking, we are better able to leverage the collective power of our teams and solve the world’s most complex challenges. We strive for a culture of trust and respect, where everyone contributes their perspectives and authentic selves, reaches their potential as individuals and teams, and collaborates to do the best work of their lives.
We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a journey, and we are committed to learning, listening and evolving to become more diverse, equitable and inclusive than we are today.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer that does not tolerate discrimination on any basis. We actively seek out diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and skills so that we can be collectively stronger and have sustained global impact.
We are committed to providing an environment of respect and psychological safety where equal employment opportunities are available to all. We do not engage in or tolerate discrimination on the basis of race, color gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability (including HIV/AIDS status), marital status, military veteran status or any other protected group in the locations where we work.
Safeguarding & Ethics
Mercy Corps is committed to ensuring that all individuals we come into contact with through our work, whether team members, community members, program participants or others, are treated with respect and dignity. We are committed to the core principles regarding the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse laid out by the UN Secretary General and IASC and have signed on to the Interagency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. We will not tolerate child abuse, sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment by or of our team members. As part of our commitment to a safe and inclusive work environment, team members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner, respect local laws and customs, and to adhere to Mercy Corps Code of Conduct Policies and values at all times. Team members are required to complete mandatory Code of Conduct elearning courses upon hire and on an annual basis.