Technical Specialist for Ecosystem Restoration and Climate Resilience

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's global development network, established to advocate for change and connect countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. The UNDP Cambodia Country Office collaborates with the Royal Government of Cambodia, NGOs, civil society, and the private sector to achieve the Cambodia Sustainable Development Goals (CSDGs) and national development priorities outlined in the Pentagonal Strategy for realizing the national vision 205

• The UNDP Country Programme Document 2024-2028 identifies three transformational shifts as priorities for support over the next five years, focusing on inclusive economic growth, just energy transition, and strengthening institutions for civic participation and access to rights. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff dedicated to sustainable development and poverty alleviation.

Job Overview:
The Technical Specialist for Ecosystem Restoration and Climate Resilience will play a pivotal role in providing substantive inputs and guidance to the National Project Director(s) and Project Management Unit(s) of the Ministry of Environment in implementing two significant projects: the Global Environment Facility round 8 (GEF-8) Ecosystem Restoration Integrated Program and the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF). This position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and private sector partners, to ensure effective project implementation. The specialist will be responsible for strategic programming, stakeholder engagement, and ensuring the integration of project outputs while maintaining a focus on capacity building and knowledge management. The role also emphasizes the importance of gender, social, and environmental safeguards throughout project execution, ensuring compliance with UNDP's Social and Environmental Standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will ensure strategic and effective programming and delivery of the ERIP and LDCF projects by providing strategic advice and technical inputs to the National Project Director, National Project Manager, and Project Management Unit. Responsibilities include preparing Terms of Reference for consultants, reviewing their work, ensuring synergy among subcontracted activities, and providing technical input for training and capacity development. The specialist will guide restoration activities, oversee the implementation of safeguard-related plans, and monitor progress in environmental and social management. Additionally, the role involves developing annual work plans, advising on project reports, and facilitating knowledge management and capacity building among stakeholders. The incumbent will also be responsible for identifying project target communities and designing locally-specific implementation strategies, ensuring that gender and environmental safeguards are effectively integrated into all project activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity Conservation, Environmental Science, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in biodiversity and forest conservation, ecosystem restoration, or a related field is required, with at least 2 years in providing oversight and advisory services to complex development projects. Experience in developing international standard reports, implementing GEF/GCF projects, and establishing partnerships with multi-stakeholders is highly desirable. Knowledge of gender and safeguard guidelines, as well as experience in policy development processes, is also essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity Conservation, Environmental Science, or related Development Studies is required. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned areas, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience with a master’s degree or 7 years with a bachelor’s degree in relevant fields. At least 2 years of this experience should involve providing oversight and advisory services to multiple complex development projects in areas such as nature, climate change, energy, or disaster risk reduction. Experience in implementing GEF/GCF projects and working with high-ranking officials is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of the Khmer language is considered an advantage. This linguistic proficiency is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and project partners.

Additional Notes:
The Technical Specialist will be based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and stationed in the Ministry of Environment. The role may require provincial and international travel, adhering to UNDP policies regarding duty travel. The position is full-time, and UNDP is committed to equal opportunity employment, valuing diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures that all selected candidates undergo relevant checks. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to use AI responsibly in the recruitment process.