Procurement Process IC - Individual contractor

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNDP (United Nations Development Programme), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate and disaster resilience, and sustainable development. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, contributing to its mission of fostering sustainable human development.

Job Overview:
The position of Procurement Process IC (Individual Contractor) involves the development and implementation of a certification system for low-carbon beef production in the Pampas region of Argentina. This role is crucial for facilitating access to sustainable markets for beef producers. The contractor will be responsible for creating an integrated certification system that meets environmental standards and promotes sustainable agricultural practices. The assignment is expected to last for ten months, during which the contractor will engage with various stakeholders, including farmers, government agencies, and market representatives, to ensure the system's effectiveness and acceptance. The contractor will also need to navigate the complexities of the certification process, ensuring compliance with both local and international standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Procurement Process IC include:

• Conducting a comprehensive analysis of the current beef production practices in the Pampas region to identify areas for improvement in sustainability.
• Developing a framework for the certification system that aligns with environmental standards and market requirements.
• Collaborating with local stakeholders, including farmers and agricultural organizations, to gather input and ensure the system meets their needs.
• Designing training programs for producers on sustainable practices and the certification process.
• Implementing pilot projects to test the certification system and gather feedback for refinement.
• Preparing detailed reports on progress and challenges encountered during the implementation phase.
• Engaging with UNDP and other partners to ensure alignment with broader sustainability goals and initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in environmental science, agricultural economics, or a related field. They should have experience in developing certification systems or similar frameworks, particularly in the agricultural sector. Knowledge of sustainable farming practices and carbon footprint assessment is essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, and excellent communication skills to convey complex information effectively.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a bachelor's degree in environmental science, agricultural economics, or a related field is required. A master's degree or equivalent advanced qualification is preferred, as it demonstrates a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in sustainable agriculture and environmental management.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in environmental consulting, agricultural development, or related fields. Experience working with certification systems or sustainability initiatives in the agricultural sector is highly desirable. Familiarity with the Argentine agricultural landscape and regulatory environment will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, as the role requires extensive communication with local stakeholders. Proficiency in English is also desirable, as it may be necessary for reporting and collaboration with international partners. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region may be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a full-time contract for a duration of ten months. The contractor will be expected to work closely with UNDP and other partners throughout the assignment. Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications, and benefits may include professional development opportunities and access to UNDP resources. The position is open to both national and international candidates, encouraging a diverse pool of applicants.