National Consultant for Tonga

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is part of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), which was established to promote economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. ESCAP works with member states to foster regional cooperation and integration, focusing on sustainable development, poverty reduction, and inclusive growth. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, engaging with various stakeholders to implement projects that address pressing regional challenges.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Tonga will play a crucial role in coordinating and supporting the implementation of a project aimed at enhancing resilient and inclusive mobility policies in peri-urban areas. This position involves working closely with the Regional Consultant and local stakeholders to gather data, analyze local contexts, and develop actionable plans that leverage digital technologies for improved transport services. The consultant will facilitate stakeholder consultations, capacity-building workshops, and contribute to the development of a peri-urban mobility plan that aligns with existing guidelines and policies. The overarching goal is to ensure that vulnerable and marginalized communities have access to essential services and employment opportunities through improved transport infrastructure and services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's responsibilities include coordinating the project inception meeting and fact-finding mission in Nukuʻalofa, supporting the establishment of a Technical Advisory Group, collecting and analyzing data for various assessments, and facilitating national stakeholder consultations. The consultant will also initiate the development of a local resilient and inclusive peri-urban mobility plan, ensuring collaboration with local authorities and alignment with previous ESCAP knowledge products. The role requires ongoing communication with the Regional Consultant and stakeholders to address local challenges and enhance social inclusiveness in transport services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in transportation management, transportation engineering, urban planning, environmental science, public policy, or a related discipline. Additionally, applicants should have at least five years of experience in development projects focused on sustainability and transportation, with demonstrated skills in data collection, technical report development, and organizing national and regional meetings. Experience working with government stakeholders and the ability to collaborate in multi-country teams are also essential qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field such as transportation management, urban planning, or environmental science is required. This educational background should provide the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the project’s objectives and engage with various stakeholders in the transportation sector.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in development projects, particularly those related to sustainability, transportation, or environmental management. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on similar projects and possess the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments, particularly in the context of policy development and regulatory frameworks.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is crucial for collaboration and reporting. Additionally, a working knowledge of the local language of Tonga is preferred, as it will facilitate engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the consultant's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. The expected duration of the contract is from July 20, 2026, to July 19, 202

• The consultant will be engaged in a full-time capacity, and there are no fees associated with the recruitment process. The United Nations emphasizes that it does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.