Project Manager (Technical Lead)

Job Posting Organization:
NORCAP is an organization dedicated to improving aid to better protect and empower individuals affected by crises and climate change. The organization focuses on providing expertise and solutions to humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding partners. NORCAP believes in collaborative efforts as the most effective means to reduce needs, risks, and vulnerabilities over time. The organization aims not only to alleviate immediate needs but also to create opportunities and choices for affected individuals. NORCAP operates globally, working with various partners to enhance aid effectiveness through targeted expertise and collaborative solutions.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager (Technical Lead) position is crucial for ensuring that NORCAP projects are delivered on time, within scope, and in compliance with both donor and organizational requirements. This role combines technical leadership with hands-on project management responsibilities, including reporting, grants management, risk and compliance, and partnership development. The successful candidate will also be responsible for leading efforts to streamline project management processes and systems across NORCAP, ensuring consistency and efficiency in project execution. This position is temporary, with a six-month contract based in Oslo, Norway, under a national employment contract.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Manager (Technical Lead) include providing technical support and supervision to Project Managers across NORCAP to ensure a unified approach to project management. The role also involves leading the technical development of project management practices and maintaining a strong community of practice among project managers. The Project Manager will manage projects to deliver objectives within agreed parameters, including time, cost, quality, scope, benefits, and risk. Additionally, the role requires ensuring timely and high-quality donor reporting (both narrative and financial) and maintaining strong relationships with donors. The Project Manager will also be responsible for developing and reviewing partner agreements to ensure compliance with legal and governance standards, conducting risk assessments, implementing mitigation measures, and overseeing budgeting, financial forecasting, and compliance for selected projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of project management methodologies and tools. A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as social sciences, development studies, or an equivalent discipline is required. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in the humanitarian, development, or peacebuilding sectors, with at least 5 years of experience specifically in project management, preferably with certification such as Prince2 or a similar qualification. Proven experience in grants management, donor compliance, and financial reporting is essential, along with experience in risk assessment and stakeholder engagement. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are required, with fluency in English being mandatory. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to work in diverse cultural contexts and manage complex projects under pressure.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as social sciences, development studies, or an equivalent area of study. This advanced degree is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage projects within the humanitarian and development sectors.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position includes a minimum of 7 years in the humanitarian, development, or peacebuilding sectors. Specifically, candidates should have at least 5 years of experience in project management, ideally with a recognized certification such as Prince2 or a similar qualification. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of project management in challenging environments and for ensuring compliance with donor requirements and organizational standards.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with diverse stakeholders and for producing high-quality reports. While English is the primary language required, additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they relate to the regions in which NORCAP operates or to the communities served by the projects.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary role with a contract duration of six months, based in Oslo, Norway, under a national employment contract. The organization offers a central location in downtown Oslo, flexible working hours, and a hybrid working model. The work is rewarding and contributes to a renowned global organization dedicated to addressing humanitarian, peacebuilding, and development challenges. NORCAP values diversity, equity, and inclusion, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or disability. Candidates should be aware that NORCAP reserves the right to conduct a full background check on shortlisted candidates, and an approved health certificate will be required prior to the commencement of the contract. Feedback will be provided to all applicants within four weeks after the closing of the advertisement.