UNDP Project Manager - Infrastructure

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization dedicated to eradicating poverty and reducing inequalities through sustainable development. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and communities to create solutions that improve the quality of life for people everywhere. The organization focuses on various areas, including democratic governance, sustainable economic growth, and resilience to climate change. In the Palestinian Territory, UNDP's Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (PAPP) aims to enhance the economic and social conditions of the Palestinian people, guided by the UN General Assembly Resolution 33/14

• The current Palestinian Programmatic Framework (PPF) for 2023-2027 emphasizes transformative resilience, aiming to foster a cohesive Palestinian identity, self-reliance, and leadership, while addressing critical development priorities.

Job Overview:
The UNDP Project Manager for Infrastructure will play a pivotal role in overseeing and managing infrastructure projects aimed at improving the livelihoods of marginalized communities in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. This position requires a proactive approach to project management, ensuring that all technical, operational, financial, and administrative outputs are delivered effectively. The Project Manager will be responsible for coordinating day-to-day project activities, supervising project personnel, and ensuring that project timelines and quality standards are met. The role also involves developing detailed project work plans, monitoring progress, managing project risks, and ensuring compliance with UNDP rules and regulations. The Project Manager will engage with various stakeholders, including implementing partners, local communities, and donors, to ensure that project goals are achieved and that the needs of the community are reflected in project activities. Additionally, the Project Manager will facilitate knowledge sharing and contribute to the overall strategic objectives of UNDP in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Ensure effective project management by maintaining the delivery of appropriate technical, operational, financial, and administrative outputs, while tracking the project’s progress through monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. Implement and manage the project on a day-to-day basis, coordinating the implementation of respective activities based on the relevant project document, including supervision and guidance of other project personnel, consultants, and experts. Develop comprehensive project work-plans that include all project activities and roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, setting corresponding milestones. Monitor the progress of implementation of project activities and key event schedules, review work-plans, set deadlines, and monitor financial resources to ensure accuracy and reliability of financial reports. Mobilize goods and services to support project activities, including drafting TORs and specifications. Manage and monitor project risks, submitting information on new risks and possible mitigating measures to the Project Board. Ensure adherence to financial, procurement, and administrative processes in line with UNDP regulations, while observing project timelines. Ensure gender equality and accessibility for people with disabilities are reflected in all project activities. Conduct regular field monitoring and ensure quality assurance of project implementation on the ground. Plan and conduct field visits to verify activity implementation, assess progress, and identify challenges. Develop and maintain checklists and reporting templates to document field observations. Provide on-site technical guidance to contractors and field staff. Prepare concise field visit reports and support the design of quality assurance mechanisms. Maintain strong relationships with implementing partners and finalize contractual agreements. Prepare project progress and ad hoc reports, ensuring timely submission to the project board and donors. Facilitate knowledge sharing and contribute to the office's strategic objectives, ensuring compilation of lessons learned throughout project implementation.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Project Management, Public Management, Business Administration, Engineering, Architecture, Urban Planning, Construction Management, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the areas stated above with an additional two years of qualifying experience.
• Applicants with a master’s degree are not required to have professional work experience, while those with a bachelor’s degree must have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in managing engineering/infrastructure projects with local governmental or non-governmental organizations.
• Proven experience in project management, including planning, results-based management, financial oversight, and procurement, particularly in crisis contexts.
• Solid experience with UN, international organizations, local governments, NGOs, and bilateral and multilateral donors.
• Demonstrated ability to mobilize partnerships and leverage innovative solutions to development challenges.
• Excellent report writing skills with the ability to present information clearly and concisely.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Project Management, Public Management, Business Administration, Engineering, Architecture, Urban Planning, Construction Management, or Infrastructure Management. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these areas, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, will also be considered. A valid membership in a Local or International Engineering Association is required, and project management certification is an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in managing or serving in a key programmatic role in engineering/infrastructure projects. Applicants with a master’s degree are not required to have prior work experience, while those with a bachelor’s degree must demonstrate at least two years of experience in relevant roles, particularly with local governmental or non-governmental organizations, including civil society organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic, both written and spoken, is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in East Jerusalem and may require travel within Jerusalem and the West Bank. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to engage with various stakeholders, including local communities and international partners. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and emphasizes equal opportunity in its hiring practices.