Technical and Administrative Monitoring Project Associate (TAMS)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a mission to empower lives and build resilient nations. UNDP is committed to promoting gender equality and ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities to contribute to and benefit from development efforts.

Job Overview:
The Technical and Administrative Monitoring Project Associate (TAMS) will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation and monitoring of project activities aimed at reducing threats to biodiversity in the Suriname Amazon. This position involves providing high-quality technical and administrative support under the guidance of the project manager. The TAMS will coordinate with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector, to ensure that project implementation aligns with the objectives and outcomes of the ASL2 project funded by the GEF and UNDP. The role requires participation in field missions, maintaining financial documentation, preparing budgets, and providing logistical support for training events. The TAMS will also assist in monitoring project indicators and ensuring compliance with financial rules and procedures, thereby contributing to the overall success of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The TAMS will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: participating in field missions and drafting mission summaries; maintaining accurate records of project funds and expenditures; preparing FACE forms for submission to UNDP; consolidating financial progress reports; providing logistical and technical assistance for training events; supporting the development of grants and monitoring their performance; assisting in the preparation of annual budgets and project expenditure reports; ensuring compliance with financial documentation; and supporting the development and monitoring of project indicators. The TAMS will also assist in knowledge management and evaluation efforts, ensuring that all project documentation is properly included in the knowledge management system and is publicly available. Additionally, the TAMS will support the operational management of training and communication events, gather necessary technical and financial information for progress reports, and assist in the selection process for grantees and the management of grant contracts.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of secondary education, with a preference for those holding a university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in fields such as international development, sustainable development, natural resource/environmental management, management, economics, or climate change. Specialized training in operations and logistics management or procurement is considered an asset. A minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience is required for candidates with secondary education, while those with a Bachelor’s degree must have at least 4 years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management. Candidates should demonstrate experience in collaborating with government agencies, local communities, NGOs, and private sector partners, as well as in designing monitoring frameworks and managing project budgets.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a minimum of secondary education, with a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as international development, sustainable development, natural resource/environmental management, management, economics, or climate change being highly regarded. Specialized training in operations and logistics management or procurement would be advantageous. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of project management and environmental conservation efforts in Suriname.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience for candidates with secondary education, or 4 years for those with a Bachelor’s degree. This experience should include progressively responsible roles in project or programme management, demonstrating the ability to effectively implement and monitor project activities. Candidates should have a proven track record of working collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and NGOs, to ensure successful project outcomes.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken Dutch and English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, verbal proficiency in Sranang Tongo is desired, as it would facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders in Suriname. The ability to communicate effectively in these languages is crucial for the successful implementation of project activities and stakeholder engagement.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and is expected to be carried out over a period of 60 months. The Project Associate will report to the Project Manager and will work closely with colleagues from the Project Management Unit (PMU), the Ministry of GBB, SBB, and the UNDP Suriname Office. The role involves a commitment to gender equality and inclusivity, as UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with UNDP policies, and candidates should be aware that UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement.