FREF Project Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequality, and combating climate change. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in 170 countries, leveraging a vast network of experts and partners to assist nations in developing integrated, sustainable solutions for both people and the planet. In the Pacific region, UNDP provides support to 10 countries, including Fiji, and offers regional assistance to five additional nations, collectively serving a population of approximately 2.4 million. The organization focuses on three main areas: Effective Governance, Inclusive Growth, and Resilience and Climate Change, with a commitment to mainstreaming gender and human rights across all initiatives.

Job Overview:
The FREF Project Associate will play a crucial role in supporting the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF) project, which aims to enhance access to clean, affordable, and reliable renewable energy in rural communities. This position involves close collaboration with the Director of Energy, the FREF Project Analyst, and the UNDP-FREF Support Project Management Unit. The primary responsibilities include maintaining accurate records, overseeing daily operations of the FREF and its Trust Fund, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. The FREF project is designed to electrify at least 20 rural communities over four years, benefiting approximately 6,500 Fijians and significantly reducing carbon emissions. The role is pivotal in fostering gender-inclusive economic growth and improving living standards through the provision of modern energy solutions and auxiliary services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The FREF Project Associate will report directly to the FREF Project Analyst and will be responsible for managing financial resources, coordinating fund disbursement, overseeing procurement processes, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Key duties include preparing financial reports, liaising with auditors, maintaining accurate financial records, and upholding financial integrity across all transactions. The associate will also engage in additional tasks as necessary to support the efficient functioning of the FREF Unit and the UNDP-FREF Support Project, ensuring that all activities align with established procedures and best practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible administrative or project experience with secondary education, or 4 years with a bachelor's degree. Experience in financial management, monitoring, and reporting, particularly within the public sector, is essential. Knowledge of accounting standards used in Fiji and demonstrated skills in preparing clear and timely financial reports are required. Additionally, experience working with donors and development partners for resource mobilization is highly desirable, along with familiarity with International Financial Reporting Standards and National Accounting Standards related to public financial management.

Educational Background:
While secondary education is required, a university degree (bachelor's degree) in Accounting or a related field will be given preference. Candidates with relevant educational backgrounds will be considered favorably, but it is not a strict requirement for the position.

Experience:
The position requires substantial experience in administrative or project roles, specifically in financial management and reporting. Candidates should have a proven track record of at least 7 years of relevant experience with secondary education or 4 years with a bachelor's degree, demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility and expertise in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with proficiency in Fiji Hindi and/or Itaukei Language. These language skills are essential for effective communication within the role and to engage with diverse stakeholders in the community.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Suva, Fiji, and involves a mix of working days at the Department of Energy and the UNDP-FREF Support Project. The role is full-time, and UNDP is committed to equal opportunity employment, valuing diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures that all selected candidates undergo relevant checks. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions in the future. Importantly, UNDP does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.