Project Coordination Associate

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 aims to empower lives and build resilient nations.

Job Overview:
The Project Coordination Associate will play a crucial role in the Advanced Capacity for Accelerated Delivery Initiative (ACADI), which is a project aimed at enhancing the capacity of the Ministry for Public Investment (MPI) in Serbia to implement projects funded by loans. This position is essential for ensuring that projects are executed efficiently and effectively, thereby preventing potential financial penalties due to delays. The associate will be responsible for providing programmatic, analytical, and administrative support, ensuring that project activities are planned, implemented, monitored, and reported in accordance with established guidelines. The role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including project partners, beneficiaries, and government representatives, to facilitate the smooth execution of project activities and achieve the desired outcomes as outlined in the project workplans and budgets.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Coordination Associate will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: assisting in the conceptualization and implementation of project activities, developing project monitoring and evaluation frameworks, preparing updates and reports for Project Boards, collecting and analyzing relevant data, providing troubleshooting support, and making strategic suggestions for project implementation. The associate will also manage relationships with project partners and beneficiaries, coordinate field visits, draft terms of reference for hiring experts, monitor contracted parties, and ensure that deliverables meet the required standards. Additionally, the associate will support expert teams and beneficiaries to ensure value for money in project deliverables and manage fund disbursement processes in coordination with the Project Manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of secondary education, with a university degree in social sciences, legal studies, or natural sciences being preferred. Relevant experience in project support, particularly with international organizations or national governments, is essential. A minimum of 6 years of experience is required for those with secondary education, while candidates with a bachelor's degree need at least 3 years of relevant experience. Proficiency in computer applications, particularly MS Office and web-based management systems, is necessary. Desired qualifications include experience in procurement, recruitment, legal, finance, logistics, and general administration, as well as familiarity with large investment development projects and the UN system.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes secondary education as a minimum. However, candidates with a university degree (bachelor's degree) in relevant fields such as social sciences, legal studies, or natural sciences will be given preference. This educational foundation is important for understanding the complexities of project management and implementation within the context of international development.

Experience:
The level of experience required for the Project Coordination Associate position is significant, with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience for candidates with secondary education and at least 3 years for those with a bachelor's degree. This experience should involve providing project support in collaboration with international organizations or national governments, demonstrating a strong understanding of project management principles and practices. Candidates should also have experience in coordinating and implementing large investment development projects, which is crucial for the successful execution of the ACADI project.

Languages:
Proficiency in Serbian, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for communication with local stakeholders and project partners. Additionally, a working knowledge of English is required, enabling effective collaboration with international teams and partners. This bilingual capability is vital for ensuring that project documentation and communications are accessible to all relevant parties.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and will involve working closely with the Ministry for Public Investments. The Project Coordination Associate will be expected to adhere to UNDP's standards and principles, including a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The organization emphasizes equal opportunity and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind. Candidates should be aware that UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions in the future. Furthermore, applicants should be cautious of scams and ensure they do not pay any fees during the recruitment process.