Project Manager (Environmental Engineering)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNOPS, which stands for the United Nations Office for Project Services. Established to support the implementation of sustainable development solutions, UNOPS operates in over 17 countries across the Asia Pacific region, including Papua New Guinea. The organization focuses on delivering high-quality project management, infrastructure, and procurement services, ensuring operational excellence and alignment with the United Nations' goals. UNOPS has a significant presence in the region, with a dedicated office in Papua New Guinea that has been operational since 2020, managing a growing portfolio of projects in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Government of PNG and international partners.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager (Environmental Engineering) will lead the implementation of the GEF funded DDT and PCB Disposal Project in Papua New Guinea. This role involves overseeing the safe and environmentally sound management of hazardous waste from project initiation through to final disposal and project closure. The Project Manager will be responsible for planning, coordinating, implementing, and monitoring the project, ensuring that it is delivered within the approved scope, schedule, budget, quality, and environmental, social, health, and safety (ESHSS) requirements. The position requires strong technical knowledge in hazardous waste management, project and contract management, procurement of specialized services, stakeholder engagement, regulatory compliance, and risk management. The Project Manager will also be expected to provide strategic leadership throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring compliance with international conventions and effective management of project risks while strengthening national capacity for hazardous waste management in Papua New Guinea.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Manager will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including leading the overall implementation of the GEF funded DDT and PCB Disposal Project, ensuring compliance with the approved scope, schedule, budget, and quality standards. They will develop and regularly update the Project Implementation Plan, manage the delivery of all project outputs, oversee contractor performance, and ensure compliance with contractual obligations and regulatory requirements. The Project Manager will monitor project performance against agreed milestones, identify risks, and implement corrective actions as necessary. They will also promote sustainable hazardous waste management practices, advocate for UNOPS service offerings, and support the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) in preparing proposals for funding. Additionally, the Project Manager will be responsible for maintaining project documentation, managing reporting obligations, and ensuring adherence to UNOPS financial rules and regulations.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or Waste Management with at least 7 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree (or equivalent) in any of the above or related fields with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience. Professional certification from a reputed institute in a technical topic relevant to the job area is desired. Candidates should have experience in project management related to environmental management, hazardous waste management, and contaminated site remediation, as well as demonstrated experience in managing multidisciplinary projects through the full project lifecycle.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or Waste Management. A Master's degree in any of these fields is preferred. Additionally, professional certification in relevant technical areas is desired, which indicates a higher level of expertise and commitment to the field.

Experience:
The role requires significant experience in project management, specifically related to environmental management and hazardous waste management. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing multidisciplinary projects through all phases, including planning, implementation, procurement, contract management, monitoring, and closure. Experience in managing hazardous waste logistics, including international shipment and disposal, is also essential. Familiarity with the Basel Convention, Stockholm Convention, and Waigani Convention is desired, as is experience working in multicultural environments or UN system organizations in developing countries.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, as this is essential for stakeholder engagement and reporting. Additional language skills may be considered an advantage but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as mid-level, with an ICS Level of 10 and a contract type of ICA - IICA - Regular. The contract level is IICA 2, and the duration of the contract is ongoing. The application deadline is set for midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date of 20-Sep-202

• UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from a wide range of nationalities, cultures, and backgrounds. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse, and all candidates must undergo background checks as part of the recruitment process.