Landscape Project Officer

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 the globe. Operating in 170 countries and territories, UNDP focuses on developing policies, enhancing leadership skills, and building institutional capabilities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since its inception, UNDP has been committed to fostering democratic governance, rule of law, and inclusive institutions. In India, UNDP has been active since 1951, working closely with the Government of India and various development partners to address critical issues such as poverty eradication, local governance, environmental protection, and sustainable development. UNDP India’s current Country Programme (2018-2022) is in its final year, with a new programme set to begin in 2023, focusing on integrated development solutions across three strategic portfolios: accountable institutions, economic opportunities, and climate-smart solutions. UNDP promotes South-South cooperation, gender equality, and social inclusion throughout its initiatives, aiming to support the Government of India in achieving its national development vision and the SDGs.

Job Overview:
The Landscape Project Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of a project aimed at achieving land degradation neutrality in India. This position involves working closely with the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and other stakeholders to ensure that project activities are executed effectively and in alignment with the project document and results framework. The officer will be responsible for planning, coordination, and communication with various stakeholders, including government departments and technical institutions. The role requires the development of landscape-specific annual work plans, accurate reporting, and facilitation of review meetings. The Landscape Project Officer will also identify capacity development needs among implementing partners and community members, arrange necessary training, and manage project expenditures. This position is integral to achieving the project's objectives of enhancing national and state-level frameworks for sustainable land management and biodiversity conservation, ultimately contributing to the broader goals of climate change mitigation and resilience.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) and State Project Director (SPD) in planning, coordinating, and implementing project activities according to the project document and results framework.
• Take full responsibility for the implementation of project activities at the landscape level.
• Maintain regular communication and coordination with stakeholders, including the National Project Management Unit and Landscape Level Committees.
• Collaborate with relevant line departments and technical institutions on land and forest management and sustainable livelihood issues.
• Develop annual work plans specific to the landscape and ensure timely reporting to the State Project Management Unit and UNDP.
• Facilitate periodic review meetings and prepare minutes and proceedings.
• Support the State Project Management Unit in developing Terms of Reference for hiring consultants and assist in contracting processes.
• Identify capacity development needs and arrange training for implementing partners and community members.
• Provide inputs for timely submission of various progress reports and financial documents to MoEFCC and UNDP. 1
• Prepare for financial audits and manage project expenditure at the landscape level. 1
• Liaise with district-level departments for resource mobilization and co-financing. 1
• Collect and disseminate best practices and knowledge products. 1
• Assist in developing new proposals for resource mobilization. 1
• Manage contracts with project partners and flag potential risks. 1
• Assist in the independent evaluation of the project. 1
• Perform any other tasks assigned by the DFO, SPD, or UNDP.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable land management, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation. They should have excellent communication and coordination skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. A demonstrated ability to develop work plans and reports, as well as experience in project management, is essential. Familiarity with financial management and auditing processes is also required. Candidates should exhibit strong analytical skills and the ability to identify capacity development needs among partners and community members.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in environmental science, forestry, natural resource management, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in project management, particularly in the fields of sustainable land management, biodiversity conservation, or climate change. Experience working with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations is highly desirable. Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and capacity building is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Hindi or other local languages is considered an asset. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for effective stakeholder engagement and reporting.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, and will require frequent travel to project villages. The assignment offers a monthly voluntary living allowance, entry lump sum payment, relocation costs, exit allowance upon successful completion, comprehensive insurance coverage, and access to learning and career development resources. The role is expected to be full-time and may involve working with international partners.