State Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been operational in India since 1951, focusing on various aspects of human development. The organization collaborates with the Government of India and other development partners to tackle issues such as poverty eradication, inequality reduction, local governance enhancement, environmental protection, and sustainable development. UNDP India operates across all states and union territories, working with national and subnational governments and diverse development actors to achieve people-centric results, particularly for marginalized communities. The organization is committed to supporting the Government of India’s national development vision and priorities, aligning its efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The current Country Programme (2023-2027) emphasizes integrated development solutions across three strategic portfolios: accountable institutions for SDG achievement, enhanced economic opportunities for marginalized groups, and climate-smart solutions for sustainable ecosystems. UNDP promotes South-South cooperation, gender equality, and social inclusion throughout its initiatives, supported by innovative partnerships and blended finance solutions.

Job Overview:
The State Project Coordinator will play a crucial role in the implementation of the GEF-GoI-UNDP Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) project, working under the supervision of the National Project Manager (NPM) and collaborating closely with the National Project Management Unit (NPMU) and Landscape Project Management Unit (LPMU). The coordinator will be responsible for ensuring that project activities align with the project document and results framework, managing daily project operations, and facilitating communication among stakeholders. This position requires a proactive approach to project planning, management, and evaluation, as well as the ability to foster partnerships and coordinate with various state departments and technical institutions. The coordinator will also be involved in financial management, reporting, and knowledge sharing to enhance project outcomes and contribute to the overall goals of sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation in India.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Project Planning, Management, and Implementation: Assist in planning, coordination, and monitoring of project activities to ensure alignment with project objectives. Take full responsibility for daily project management, including budgeting and stakeholder communication. Develop annual work plans and ensure timely reporting to relevant authorities. Guide landscape-level teams and monitor consultant activities. Assist in project evaluations.
• Stakeholder Coordination and Resource Mobilization: Maintain regular communication with project stakeholders, including government agencies and technical institutions. Foster partnerships to enhance project convergence and organize periodic review meetings. Develop proposals for additional resource mobilization.
• Procurement and Operational Management: Develop Terms of Reference for hiring consultants and manage procurement processes. Oversee the commissioning of research studies and training activities. Ensure timely contract management and quality reporting from partners.
• Financial Management and Reporting: Track project expenditures in accordance with financial rules and ensure transparency. Prepare and submit progress reports to relevant authorities.
• Knowledge Management: Document best practices and coordinate knowledge sharing among project stakeholders. Perform other duties as necessary for effective office functioning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience with secondary education or 4 years with a bachelor’s degree in fields such as natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, or social development. Demonstrated technical experience in sustainable land management and socio-economic development is essential, along with experience in coordinating with government agencies and stakeholders. Candidates should also have experience in preparing technical reports and strategic plans for key stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A secondary education is required, while a university degree (bachelor’s degree) in Environmental Science, Forestry, Agriculture, Sustainable Development, Social Sciences, Public Policy, Management, or a related field will be considered an advantage.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience with secondary education or 4 years with a bachelor’s degree in fields related to natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, or social development. Experience in project management and coordination with government and other stakeholders is crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Hindi or Gujarati is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as NPSA 10, reporting to the National Project Manager. The role may involve supervising Landscape Project Officers and Community Mobilizers. UNDP is committed to equal opportunity employment and values diversity in its workforce. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures a fair recruitment process. Selected candidates may be considered for similar positions within UNDP at the same grade level.