Project Associate

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 better lives. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, focusing on three main programmatic fields: Inclusive and Sustainable Growth, Inclusive and Democratic Governance, and Climate Change and Environment (CCE). The CCE Portfolio specifically addresses natural resource management, climate change resilience, and energy efficiency, working closely with various stakeholders including governments and local authorities.

Job Overview:
The Project Associate (PA) will play a crucial role in the UNDP Türkiye Climate Change and Environment Portfolio, specifically within the EU Partnership for Local Climate Action in Türkiye Project. This position is designed for a full-time commitment throughout the project's duration, which is expected to last for six months with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. The PA will assist the Project Manager in executing project activities, drafting reports, and liaising with stakeholders at both national and international levels. The role requires a proactive approach to support the day-to-day implementation of project activities, ensuring that all tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. The PA will also be responsible for maintaining high standards of service delivery, adhering to deadlines, and ensuring the accuracy and completeness of information provided to clients and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Associate will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: supporting project planning and the formulation of Annual Work Plans (AWPs), assisting in the preparation of annual budgets and procurement plans, and making periodic revisions to these plans in consultation with the Project Manager. The PA will provide general administrative support to ensure smooth project management, including logistical support for project activities such as trainings, workshops, and stakeholder consultations. Responsibilities also include controlling budget expenditures, maintaining records of non-expendable equipment, and ensuring regular communication with project experts and consultants. The PA will organize project meetings, events, and site visits, monitor contractor performance, and prepare various project reports. Additionally, the PA will assist in procurement processes, evaluation of bids, and ensure that deliverables from contractors align with project expectations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of secondary education, with a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, economics, engineering, political or social sciences, city and regional planning, climate change, environmental sciences, or related fields being preferred. A minimum of 7 years of relevant administrative experience is required for candidates with a high school diploma, or 4 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Windows-based applications is essential, along with at least one year of technical experience in climate change adaptation or local climate action planning. Experience in project cycle management is also necessary.

Educational Background:
While secondary education is required, candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as business administration, economics, engineering, political or social sciences, city and regional planning, climate change, or environmental sciences will be given preference. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate action and project management.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible administrative experience for candidates with a high school diploma, or 4 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. This experience should ideally include working with public institutions, municipalities, civil society organizations, and donors, as well as coordinating among various stakeholders and managing project activities.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and spoken Turkish and English is mandatory for this position. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and international partners involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The Project Associate will be expected to work in the office premises of the Directorate of Climate Change of the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change during weekdays. The position is classified as regular and is expected to start on November 1, 2026, lasting for six months with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The role is full-time, and the candidate will be required to manage various logistical aspects of project implementation, including travel arrangements for foreign experts.