Project Associate (Climate Policy)

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 strengthening, community resilience enhancement, environmental protection, and policy reform support. UNDP India has a presence in every state and union territory, working with national and subnational governments and diverse development actors to achieve people-centric results, especially for marginalized communities. As the integrator for collective action on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the UN system, UNDP is committed to supporting India's national development vision and priorities, aiming to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs for both people and the planet. The new Country Programme for 2023-2027 builds on previous efforts and focuses on three strategic portfolios: strengthening accountable institutions for SDG achievement, enhancing economic opportunities and social protection, and promoting climate-smart solutions and sustainable ecosystems. The program emphasizes South-South cooperation, gender equality, and social inclusion, supported by renewed partnerships and innovative financing solutions.

Job Overview:
The Project Associate (Climate Policy) will play a crucial role in supporting the integration of climate change adaptation into policy planning and implementation processes. This position involves generating technical insights, documenting field-based pilots, and enabling inclusive risk-informed approaches. The incumbent will assist the project team in stakeholder engagement and knowledge sharing, ensuring that climate action is gender-responsive and aligned with national and global climate commitments. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including local research institutions, government departments, and community-based organizations, to develop robust climate adaptation strategies that incorporate both scientific data and local knowledge. The Project Associate will also contribute to the development of knowledge products, policy briefs, and technical presentations to disseminate field insights and best practices, thereby facilitating participatory policy dialogues and community consultations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Associate will report to the National Project Manager and will be responsible for several key areas: conducting technical and policy research on climate adaptation and risk management; supporting the development and review of adaptation strategies and gender-responsive policy tools; synthesizing best practices on data-driven adaptation solutions; providing analytical inputs for alignment with National Adaptation Plans and Nationally Determined Contributions; facilitating documentation and learning from on-ground demonstration pilot projects; applying and monitoring adherence to Social and Environmental Safeguards; assisting in developing knowledge products and coordinating capacity-building sessions; engaging with local research institutions and civil society; and ensuring the integration of gender perspectives across project deliverables. The incumbent will also perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office and organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong writing and communication skills, with experience in drafting reports, concept notes, and presentations for diverse audiences. A demonstrated background in climate policy analysis and relevant research on climate adaptation and environmental policy is essential. Additionally, candidates should have at least 2 years of experience working with government, bi/multilateral agencies, or UN agencies on climate adaptation or environmental policy, along with a good understanding of climate change concepts. Familiarity with donor-funded project environments, particularly with compliance and reporting, is also desirable.

Educational Background:
A secondary education is required, while a university bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Policy, International Relations, or a related field will be given due consideration. However, a bachelor's degree is not mandatory for application.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in projects related to environmental science or climate change if they possess secondary education, or 4 years of experience if they hold a bachelor’s degree. This experience should include technical and policy research on climate adaptation and environmental safeguards, as well as stakeholder engagement and capacity-building initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Hindi is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve working with various stakeholders, including government and non-governmental organizations. UNDP is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level.