National Project Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is the United Nations agency established to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities, with the overarching goal of providing adequate shelter for all. UN-Habitat was established by the General Assembly and has been actively working since its inception to address urbanization challenges globally. The organization operates in numerous countries, focusing on sustainable urban development, inclusive governance, and climate resilience. UN-Habitat plays a crucial role in implementing the New Urban Agenda, which was adopted during the Habitat III conference in 2016, setting global standards for sustainable urban development. The agency collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and community organizations, to advance its mission and objectives.

Job Overview:
The National Project Manager will be responsible for the effective coordination and implementation of the South Sudan component of the EU Operational Support to the IGAD Platform. This role involves ensuring that project activities are delivered on time and within budget while managing partnerships and establishing quality monitoring and reporting systems. The position requires a strong focus on strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, and compliance with donor and UN-Habitat requirements. The National Project Manager will work closely with the International Project Coordinator based in Nairobi and will be tasked with overseeing project schedules, meetings, financial processes, and documentation. The role is critical in promoting sustainable urban development and durable solutions for communities affected by displacement in South Sudan, particularly in the context of ongoing humanitarian and development challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Project Manager will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: supporting the implementation of the South Sudan component of the EU Operational Support to the IGAD Platform; representing UN-Habitat in coordination meetings; supervising the UN-Habitat project team in South Sudan; reporting on project progress and challenges; maintaining relationships with key stakeholders; monitoring project performance; coordinating with government counterparts and partners; promoting UN-Habitat’s mandate; identifying funding opportunities; drafting project proposals; coordinating field missions; analyzing field mission findings; facilitating stakeholder consultations; and providing technical support for project monitoring and evaluations. The role requires a proactive approach to ensure effective project implementation and stakeholder engagement, as well as the ability to translate complex data into actionable recommendations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in architecture, civil engineering, urban and regional planning, economics, or physical sciences relevant to the development and management of human settlements. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, at least five years of relevant professional experience in project management or support within humanitarian, development, recovery, or displacement-related programmes is required. Experience working with government counterparts, UN agencies, and NGOs is essential, along with familiarity with durable solutions, housing rights, and community-based programming. Experience in South Sudan or similar contexts is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as architecture, civil engineering, urban planning, or economics. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have sufficient qualifying experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of urban development and project management in the context of humanitarian and development challenges.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant professional experience in project management or support roles within humanitarian, development, recovery, or displacement-related programmes. Candidates should have experience working with various stakeholders, including government entities, UN agencies, and NGOs. Experience in contexts similar to South Sudan, particularly regarding durable solutions and community-based programming, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local South Sudanese languages is considered an asset, as it can facilitate communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Juba, South Sudan, and is expected to last for a duration of six months. The role is classified as an Individual Contractor position, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Candidates should be aware that the UN does not request information regarding applicants’ bank accounts.