Community Mobilizer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations' lead agency on international development, established to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality across 170 countries and territories. UNDP's mission is to help countries develop policies, leadership skills, and institutional capabilities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since its inception, UNDP has focused on sustainable development, democratic governance, and climate resilience. In India, UNDP has been operational since 1951, collaborating with the Government of India and various development partners to address poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges. The organization has a significant presence in every state and union territory, working with national and subnational governments to deliver impactful results for marginalized communities. UNDP India is currently transitioning from its 2018-2022 Country Programme to a new framework for 2023-2027, which emphasizes integrated development solutions across three strategic portfolios: accountable institutions, economic opportunities, and climate-smart solutions. The organization promotes South-South cooperation, gender equality, and social inclusion as core principles in its operations, supported by innovative partnerships and financing solutions.

Job Overview:
The Community Mobilizer will play a crucial role in supporting the Landscape Project Management Unit in implementing a project focused on sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation in India. This position involves working closely with local communities, facilitating their engagement in ecological restoration efforts, and promoting sustainable practices. The Community Mobilizer will assist in the day-to-day activities of the project, ensuring that community voices are heard and integrated into project planning and execution. The role requires a proactive approach to mobilizing community members, particularly women and youth, to participate in restoration activities and to adopt sustainable land management practices. The Community Mobilizer will also be responsible for documenting community practices and perceptions regarding resource utilization and degradation, contributing to knowledge management efforts within the project. This position is vital for fostering community ownership of restoration initiatives and ensuring that the project meets its objectives effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Community Mobilizer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: supporting the Landscape Project Officer in community engagement activities; facilitating and recording meetings with district coordination mechanisms; assisting in the selection of champion villages; mobilizing community leadership for consultations; engaging communities in sustainable land management demonstrations; implementing project activities related to ecological restoration and biodiversity conservation; spreading awareness about restoration and sustainable practices; sensitizing women and youth for active participation; facilitating access for project staff to communities; preparing beneficiary lists for training and capacity building; organizing community meetings, trainings, and workshops; conducting social and resource utilization surveys; documenting existing community practices; supporting knowledge management efforts; and maintaining coordination with government agencies and community organizations. The Community Mobilizer will also be expected to undertake any additional tasks assigned by the Landscape Project Officer or State Project Officer.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Community Mobilizer position should possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to engage effectively with diverse community groups. A background in community development, environmental science, or a related field is preferred. The ideal candidate should have experience in facilitating community meetings, conducting surveys, and implementing development projects. Familiarity with sustainable land management practices and biodiversity conservation is essential. The ability to work collaboratively with government agencies and other stakeholders is crucial, as is a commitment to promoting gender equality and social inclusion in all project activities.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, social sciences, community development, or a related discipline is required for this position. Additional training or certifications in community mobilization, sustainable development, or project management would be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 2-3 years of relevant experience in community mobilization, project implementation, or a related field. Experience working with marginalized communities and knowledge of local environmental issues will be highly valued. Familiarity with the UN system and development frameworks is a plus, as is experience in conducting training and capacity-building activities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the UNDP. Proficiency in local languages spoken in the Kachchh district will be considered an asset, as it will facilitate better communication and engagement with community members.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in the Kachchh district of India, which requires frequent travel to project villages. The assignment is expected to be full-time, and the UN Volunteer will receive a monthly Voluntary Living Allowance (VLA) of INR 28063.33, along with a one-time entry lump sum payment of USD 5

• Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage will be provided for the UN Volunteer. The role includes 2.5 days of annual leave per month and access to UNV's learning and career development resources.