International Nature-based Solutions (NbS) Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a mission to empower lives and build resilient nations.

Job Overview:
The International Nature-based Solutions (NbS) Consultant will play a crucial role in the Blue Green Islands Integrated Project, which is part of the Global Environment Fund (GEF 8). This project aims to accelerate Papua New Guinea's sustainable blue economy by strengthening governance and investment in marine areas. The consultant will provide technical support to identify, develop, pilot, and scale up Nature Based Solutions across Papua New Guinea, focusing on three priority geographies: New Ireland Province, the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and the National Capital District. The consultant will lead the implementation of key activities that embed nature-based solutions into the blue economy framework, enhancing ecosystem services and community participation, and delivering lasting benefits such as coastal protection, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and job creation through sustainable fisheries and ecotourism. The assignment is expected to commence in September 2026 and will span 105 days over 24 months, concluding in June 2028.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for the following duties and responsibilities:

• Provide technical advice and guidance on the development and implementation of Nature Based Solutions in the identified project areas.
• Lead and manage the execution of three key workstreams: a) Innovative finance models to leverage private sector and blended investment for conservation and restoration of coastal and marine biodiversity; b) Enhancement of Public-Private and Community Partnerships (PPCP) to address coastal and marine pollution in the National Capital District; c) Establishment and strengthening of NbS-focused business models in New Ireland Province and the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.
• Collaborate with local communities, stakeholders, and government agencies to ensure effective participation and ownership of the project initiatives.
• Monitor and evaluate the progress of the project activities, ensuring alignment with the overall objectives of the Blue Green Islands Integrated Project.
• Prepare and submit regular reports on the status of the project activities and outcomes to UNDP and relevant stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate must possess the following qualifications:

• Advanced degree in environmental science, marine biology, sustainable development, or a related field.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing nature-based solutions, particularly in marine and coastal ecosystems.
• Strong understanding of innovative finance models and public-private partnerships in the context of environmental conservation.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and private sector partners.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in environmental science, marine biology, sustainable development, or a related field. A strong academic background in relevant disciplines is essential to ensure the consultant can effectively contribute to the project's objectives and deliverables.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in the field of nature-based solutions, marine conservation, or sustainable development. Experience working in Papua New Guinea or similar contexts is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the local environmental and socio-economic conditions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the UNDP and the project. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Papua New Guinea would be an advantage, as it would facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international consultant role, with a contract duration of 105 days spread over 24 months, from September 2026 to June 202

• The consultant will be required to travel to various project sites within Papua New Guinea, including New Ireland Province, the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, and the National Capital District. The position is full-time, and the consultant will be compensated according to UNDP's established rates for international consultants.