Early Childhood Participatory Processes Consultant

About the role

The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN‑Habitat) is seeking a consultant to lead participatory processes that improve public spaces for children aged 0‑6 and their caregivers in Brazil. Working remotely with occasional in‑person activities, the consultant will collaborate closely with UN‑Habitat’s operational and technical teams and partner organisations.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement innovative participatory tools to involve children, caregivers, and local stakeholders in urban space planning.
• Support the rollout and scaling of child‑friendly public‑space policies in São Paulo and Curitiba.
• Coordinate with the FEMSA Foundation and local authorities to align project activities with the Habitat Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.
• Conduct research, gather evidence, and produce guidelines and reports on early‑childhood‑focused urban design.
• Facilitate workshops, community meetings, and field visits while ensuring inclusive participation of diverse caregiver groups.

Required profile

• Advanced degree or equivalent experience in urban planning, early‑childhood development, public‑space design, or a related field.
• Proven experience in participatory design processes, preferably within UN agencies, NGOs, or international development projects.
• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder‑engagement skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage deliverables remotely, and travel for on‑site activities as needed.

Required skills

• Knowledge of participatory design methodologies and early‑childhood development principles.
• Familiarity with public‑space planning and urban policy frameworks.
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken); Portuguese is an advantage.