National Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO is dedicated to building peace in the minds of men and women, and it aims to foster the exchange of ideas and knowledge across cultures and nations.

Job Overview:
The National Project Coordinator will play a crucial role in the implementation of the project titled 'Building community resilience to climate-induced multi-hazards in the BuPuSa Transboundary River Basins.' This project aims to address the hydrometeorological challenges faced by communities in Zimbabwe and Mozambique, particularly in light of the extreme weather events such as tropical cyclones and droughts that have historically impacted the region. The coordinator will be responsible for overseeing the technical implementation and monitoring of the project, ensuring that it aligns with the objectives of reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience among communities in the BuPuSa basins. The role requires strong leadership skills to manage project activities, engage with various stakeholders, and ensure effective communication and collaboration among partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Coordinator will lead and coordinate the daily implementation of project activities across the Buzi, Pungwe, and Save transboundary river basins. Key responsibilities include developing annual and quarterly work plans, supporting procurement and contracting processes, and providing technical and logistical support for project activities. The coordinator will also lead monitoring, evaluation, and reporting processes, ensuring alignment with the project results framework and donor requirements. Additionally, the coordinator will serve as the primary contact for engagement with partners, government institutions, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. Organizing project-related events, supporting communication efforts, and contributing to the overall work of the UNESCO Natural Sciences sector are also essential duties of this position.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in natural sciences, climate-related studies, disaster risk reduction, hydrology, or earth sciences. A minimum of five years of relevant experience in managing or coordinating programs in fields such as water resources, environmental sciences, climate change, and natural sciences is required. Experience working with UNESCO or UN agencies is preferred but not mandatory. Candidates should also have experience collaborating with governments and public participation processes, as well as knowledge of hydrological modeling techniques and disaster risk management tools.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as natural sciences, climate-related studies, disaster risk reduction, hydrology, or earth sciences. Additional training or courses in project management and monitoring and evaluation are considered desirable qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in managing or coordinating programs in areas related to water resources, environmental sciences, climate change, and natural sciences. Experience within the United Nations or intergovernmental organizations is highly desirable, as is experience in public participation development processes and the use of hydrometeorological early warning systems.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in a local language is considered an added advantage, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is for a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on the availability of funds and satisfactory performance. There is a probation period of six months. The position is open exclusively to nationals of Zimbabwe, and candidates must complete an online application by the specified deadline. The selection process may include video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of securing high standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity in its hiring process, and it applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment. The organization encourages individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply.