In Country Facilitator (Home based Retainer) - Apia, Samoa

Job Posting Organization:
The UNOPS Global Portfolios Office (GPO) is a significant entity within the United Nations Office for Project Services, established to bring together diverse expertise to help partners deliver impactful results worldwide. With operational hubs located in New York, Geneva, and Vienna, GPO leads multi-regional initiatives that advance sustainable development, climate action, and peacebuilding, particularly in challenging environments. The organization operates in over 130 countries, collaborating closely with major global partners, including governments, international financial institutions, and UN agencies, to provide a wide range of services such as project management, fund management, hosting services, and HR support. UNOPS is recognized for its strategic priorities and commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The In Country Facilitator position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the implementation of Samoa's Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) and to advance national climate action priorities. The role involves working closely with government institutions, international development partners, and national organizations to strengthen coordination, mobilize resources, and track progress towards Samoa’s climate and development goals. The incumbent will serve as a liaison between the NDC Partnership and the country, facilitating communication and collaboration among various stakeholders. This position requires a proactive approach to engage with government agencies, civil society, and the private sector to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive approach to NDC implementation. The facilitator will also monitor the progress of the NDC engagement and provide updates to relevant stakeholders, ensuring that the country’s climate action efforts are aligned with global standards and best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Coordination and communication with key stakeholders: Support stakeholder mapping and manage a database of contacts; facilitate government-led dissemination of information; ensure effective communication about the NDC Partnership's engagement; assist in periodic coordination and information exchange among partners; advise international and development partners on aligning climate projects with programmatic goals; strengthen coordination mechanisms for NDC-related issues; support the development and implementation of the NDC; engage with in-country partners to align priorities; document changes in the operating environment; utilize the NDC Partnership’s Knowledge Portal; support multi-stakeholder trainings and workshops.
• Monitoring the progress of country engagement: Monitor in-country engagement progress; prepare quarterly update reports summarizing insights, challenges, and recommendations; evaluate the results of the NDC Partnership's engagement and suggest improvements.
• Organizing and assisting with NDC-related meetings: Facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues on NDC at the national level; support government preparations for NDC-related events; assist with NDC Partnership and Hub-related country missions or visits.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree or equivalent in public policy, development, climate change, natural resource management, environmental management, or a related field, along with at least 5 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in a related discipline with 7 years of relevant experience is acceptable. Candidates should have a strong background in climate change, project management, stakeholder engagement, and policy development, particularly in relation to Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Familiarity with UNFCCC processes and experience in supporting NDC development and implementation are highly desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as public policy, development, climate change, natural resource management, or environmental management. A Bachelor's degree in a related discipline is acceptable if accompanied by additional years of relevant experience. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in the principles and practices related to climate action and sustainable development.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the public or private sector, focusing on climate change, project management, stakeholder engagement, and proposal development. Experience in governance processes related to climate change and familiarity with the country's policy frameworks and strategies are essential. Desired qualifications include familiarity with UNFCCC processes, experience in supporting NDC development, and the ability to foster networks among various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the NDC implementation process.

Additional Notes:
This is a retainer national vacancy for a duration of 12 months, with a maximum of 220 working days and the possibility of extension based on satisfactory performance and availability of funds. The position is home-based, meaning the incumbent will work from government facilities rather than a UNOPS office. Candidates must be nationals of Samoa or possess a valid residence and work permit in Samoa. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, welcoming applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds.