Environmental and Social Safeguards Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading UN 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 lasting change. The organization focuses on building integrated solutions that address the interconnected challenges of poverty, inequality, and climate change. In the Palestinian Territory, UNDP's Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People (PAPP) was initiated following a UN General Assembly resolution in 1978, aiming to improve the economic and social conditions of the Palestinian people. The current Palestinian Programmatic Framework (PPF) for 2023-2027 emphasizes 'Transformative Resilience' and aims to support democratic governance, inclusive economic opportunities, and sustainable natural resource management, particularly in the context of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Job Overview:
The Environmental and Social Safeguards Associate plays a crucial role in ensuring that UNDP's projects and programs adhere to social and environmental standards. This position involves identifying, assessing, and managing environmental and social risks throughout the project cycle. The Associate will work closely with project teams to integrate risk management measures, including climate risk and gender equality considerations, into project planning and execution. The role requires a proactive approach to compliance and risk management, ensuring that all projects meet UNDP's Social and Environmental Standards (SES) and align with donor frameworks. The Associate will also support the development and implementation of capacity-building initiatives to enhance understanding and application of safeguards among project teams and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Compliance & Risk Management: Support the screening and due diligence of all projects in accordance with UNDP SES, ensuring timely completion of required documentation. Review and provide feedback on Social and Environmental Screening Procedures (SESP) and related safeguard documents. Monitor compliance with national regulations and ensure alignment with UNDP SES. 2) Oversight & Quality Assurance: Provide technical support to project staff and partners to ensure effective implementation of SES safeguards. Support project appraisal committees and evaluations, ensuring safeguards are systematically addressed. 3) Reporting, Documentation & Knowledge Management: Prepare consolidated SES compliance reports for internal and donor use. Compile lessons learned and best practices related to SES implementation. 4) Capacity Building & Awareness Raising: Develop and implement capacity-building initiatives for project teams and stakeholders to strengthen understanding of SES requirements and risk management measures. Design and deliver training workshops and create outreach materials to promote safeguards understanding.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a High School Diploma or a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in environmental sciences, social sciences, development studies, or a related discipline. A minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience is required for those with a high school diploma, or 3 years for those with a bachelor’s degree. Experience should include progressively responsible roles in programme/project management, occupational health and safety, and a focus on environmental and social safeguards. Candidates should also have experience in stakeholder engagement and grievance redress mechanisms.

Educational Background:
A High School Diploma is required, or a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as environmental sciences, social sciences, or development studies. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of environmental and social safeguards in development programming.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience with a high school diploma or 3 years with a bachelor’s degree. Candidates should have progressively responsible experience in programme/project management, particularly in areas related to environmental and social safeguards. Practical field experience in applying safeguards within development programming is also essential, including experience with stakeholder engagement and grievance redress mechanisms.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Arabic is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with diverse stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and documentation.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Gaza and is part of UNDP's efforts to address urgent needs in the region. The role may involve working in a challenging environment due to the ongoing humanitarian crisis. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct in its operations.