Project Specialist

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Project Specialist
Location: Nairobi, remote
Country: Kenya, remote
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority established to set the global environmental agenda and promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and operates in multiple countries worldwide, focusing on various environmental issues. The organization is committed to fostering sustainable development through sound environmental practices and policies, and it collaborates with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve its mission. UNEP's Climate Change Division, where this position is located, aims to deliver effective strategic guidance and high-impact actions to support the transition towards climate stability, guided by ambition, innovation, and credible science.

Job Overview:
The Project Specialist will play a crucial role in managing UNEP's portfolio of GEF and GCF climate change adaptation projects specifically in Francophone Africa. This position requires the individual to internalize new approved projects, respond to queries from executing partners, review progress and technical reports, and provide adaptive management and monitoring of projects. The consultant will work closely with designated Project Management Assistants and Finance Assistants to ensure the successful implementation of projects. The role involves maintaining regular communication with Project Management Units at the Executing Agencies, overseeing project implementation progress, and providing guidance to address challenges. The Project Specialist will also be responsible for preparing project documentation, including progress reports and implementation plans, and ensuring timely completion of all required reports.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Specialist include:

• Project Management: Guiding Programme Management Assistants in developing legal agreements for new projects and extensions, preparing documents for UNEP project internalization, maintaining communication with Project Management Units, reviewing technical deliverables, participating in Project Steering Committee meetings, preparing project supervision plans, reviewing expenditure reports, and facilitating project closure.
• Preparation of Project Documentation: Preparing half-yearly progress report templates, GEF Project Implementation Reports, GCF Annual Progress Reports, and Mid-Term Review recommendations implementation plans. The consultant will also respond to GEF review comments and revise project documents accordingly, ensuring that all tasks are completed in a timely manner.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in sustainable development, international development, environmental sciences, development studies, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level degree with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Candidates must have a minimum of five years of experience in managing projects related to climate change adaptation, livelihoods, environment, or development. Experience working with national governments in Africa is essential, and familiarity with GEF, GCF, Adaptation Fund, or UNEP projects is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as sustainable development, international development, environmental sciences, or development studies. A first-level degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience, demonstrating the candidate's capability to fulfill the role effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in managing projects related to climate change adaptation, livelihoods, environment, or development. Candidates should have experience working with national governments in Africa, which is crucial for understanding the regional context and challenges. Experience with GEF, GCF, Adaptation Fund, or UNEP projects will be advantageous and may enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and French is required for this consultancy. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication with stakeholders and partners in the Francophone African context, ensuring that all project-related documentation and interactions are conducted proficiently in both languages.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based with regular missions to Francophone African countries, indicating a flexible work arrangement that allows for remote work while requiring travel for project monitoring and planning. The expected duration of the consultancy is 12 months, although specific details regarding contract duration, seniority level, and compensation are not provided in the job posting. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.