UNESCO Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. Established in 1945, UNESCO has a mission to build peace in the minds of men and women through education, science, culture, and communication. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO is committed to fostering sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for communities worldwide, particularly in areas affected by climate change and environmental degradation.

Job Overview:
The UNESCO Project Coordinator will play a pivotal role in the implementation of the project funded by the Adaptation Fund, which focuses on enhancing local communities' adaptive capacity and resilience to climate change through sustainable groundwater utilization in Zimbabwe. This position requires a proactive individual who can effectively manage project activities, coordinate with various stakeholders, and ensure that the project meets its objectives within the stipulated timeframe. The Project Coordinator will be responsible for developing project proposals, providing expert advice, conducting research, and managing knowledge related to the project. The role also involves partnership development and contributing to resource mobilization efforts to support the project's sustainability and impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Coordinator will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including:

• Coordinating and monitoring the development and implementation of activities related to water security and disaster risk reduction within the Southern Africa region.
• Planning and overseeing the implementation of the Adaptation Fund project, ensuring that all activities align with the project's goals.
• Developing detailed implementation plans, including procurement, human resources, communication strategies, capacity building, monitoring and evaluation, and risk management plans.
• Ensuring that technical outputs meet the highest standards and reviewing them for quality assurance.
• Providing leadership and guidance for water programs/projects in the Southern Africa region.
• Supporting National and Regional IHP activities and promoting cooperative initiatives through regular program resources.
• Contributing to the formulation of a resource mobilization strategy in collaboration with team members.
• Undertaking monitoring and reporting on project activities, ensuring compliance with UNESCO's standard operating procedures.
• Managing project funds and ensuring accurate budget implementation and accounting. 1
• Conducting field missions to support project implementation and track progress. 1
• Keeping Technical and Steering Committees informed about project implementation, progress, and challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in natural sciences, climate-related studies, disaster risk reduction, hydrology, earth sciences, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in project implementation within the field of natural sciences or related areas. Experience at the international level is preferred, particularly in program management, advocacy, and resource mobilization. Familiarity with UNESCO's work and the political context of Zimbabwe is also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as natural sciences, climate-related studies, disaster risk reduction, hydrology, or earth sciences. A Ph.D. or equivalent in a related field is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's competitiveness for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in project implementation, particularly in the field of natural sciences or related disciplines. Candidates with experience at the international level, especially in program management and resource mobilization, will be given preference. The role demands strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UNESCO official language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered desirable and may provide an advantage in the selection process.

Additional Notes:
The position is a project appointment with a duration of 1 year, and it is open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 50,857 USD, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. Candidates are required to complete an online application by the specified deadline, and the selection process may involve pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes a commitment to diversity and encourages applications from individuals from under-represented groups, including minorities and persons with disabilities. All applications will be treated confidentially, and geographical mobility is required for staff members appointed to international posts.