National Technical Project Coordinator for North Macedonia

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since been instrumental in coordinating responses to environmental challenges on a global scale. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to various environmental issues. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

Job Overview:
The National Technical Project Coordinator will be engaged in the GEF6 project titled 'Promoting Sustainable Land Management (SLM) Through Strengthening Legal and Institutional Framework, Capacity Building and Restoration of Most Vulnerable Mountain Landscapes' in North Macedonia. This role involves coordinating and implementing project activities related to natural resource management, capacity development, and stakeholder engagement. The consultant will work closely with the project management team and various partners to ensure the successful execution of project components aimed at reducing land degradation and enhancing sustainable land management practices. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including government institutions, municipalities, and non-governmental organizations. The consultant will also be responsible for monitoring project progress, preparing reports, and contributing to the development of new project proposals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: coordinating day-to-day project activities, conducting natural resource management assessments, facilitating the registration and due diligence processes for project partners, developing terms of reference for specific project activities, monitoring the work of project partners, coordinating the production of project outputs, providing technical inputs for project deliverables, liaising with relevant stakeholders, participating in fieldwork for sustainable land management practices, preparing materials for project meetings, promoting project components in media, and contributing to the development of knowledge management products. The consultant will also be responsible for ensuring timely and accurate reporting to the project management team and will play a key role in the implementation of the project monitoring and evaluation plan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental/natural resource management, forestry, agriculture, legal sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in any of the aforementioned fields, combined with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of five years of experience in natural resource management and project implementation, with a proven track record of achieving results. Leadership and negotiation skills, as well as in-depth knowledge of project management, are essential. Experience in land and forestry management and working with international organizations is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as environmental/natural resource management, forestry, agriculture, or legal sciences. A first-level degree (bachelor’s degree or equivalent) may be accepted if accompanied by relevant work experience. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental management and the legal frameworks that govern sustainable practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in natural resource management and project implementation. Candidates should demonstrate a proven ability to achieve results in similar roles, showcasing their leadership and negotiation skills. Experience in project management, particularly in the context of environmental or natural resource projects, is essential. Familiarity with land and forestry management practices is also highly desirable, as is experience working with the United Nations or other international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English and Macedonian is required for this position, as these are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Albanian or other regional languages is considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and contributing to the project's success.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is 9 months, and the position is part-time. The consultant will be engaged under the auspices of the UNEP Vienna Programme Office, which is responsible for overseeing the execution of the GEF6 project in North Macedonia. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.