Project Specialist

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Position Title: Project Specialist
Location: Majuro
Country: Marshall Islands
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, working in about 170 countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities. UNDP focuses on sustainable development, democratic governance, and resilience to crises and shocks. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to empower all personnel to contribute to its mission. UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, ensuring rigorous background checks for selected candidates.

Job Overview:
The Project Specialist (PS) will be responsible for managing the UNDP programme within the thematic areas assigned, specifically focusing on the project 'Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector (ACWA) in the Marshall Islands.' This project aims to address the impacts of climate change on water security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in the Republic of Marshall Islands (RMI), a small island developing state in the Pacific. The PS will work closely with the Resilience and Climate Change (RCC) Unit at Fiji MCO and FSM CO, coordinating the implementation of the ACWA project, which includes planning, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government officials, UN agencies, and civil society, to ensure successful project implementation and alignment with national climate change policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Specialist will ensure effective implementation of project activities as outlined in the Project Document. Key responsibilities include:

• Day-to-day management of project operations, including planning and development of Annual Workplans (AWP) and identification of project targets.
• Support procurement processes for goods and services in accordance with UNDP policies.
• Organize Project Steering Committee Meetings and prepare necessary documentation.
• Establish a monitoring system for all project activities and identify risks and challenges, recommending adaptive management strategies.
• Build strategic partnerships with UN agencies, government institutions, and donors, contributing to resource mobilization efforts.
• Provide top-quality technical advice to the Government of RMI and facilitate knowledge management and capacity building.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and update the risk log, recommending strategies to mitigate identified risks.
• Participate in international forums to share best practices and lessons learned from project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Water Engineering, Civil Engineering, Natural Resources, Developmental Studies, Environmental Science/Management, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned areas combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered. Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience at the national or international level in management advisory services, with hands-on experience in design, monitoring, and evaluation of development projects. Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is required, along with experience in institutional development, project management, procurement, and budgeting.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Water Engineering, Civil Engineering, Natural Resources, Developmental Studies, Environmental Science/Management is required. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these areas, combined with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience for candidates with a master's degree or 9 years for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience should include providing management advisory services and hands-on experience in the design, monitoring, and evaluation of development projects, particularly in the context of climate change adaptation and water resource management.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Marshallese is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The Project Specialist will be based in Majuro, Marshall Islands, but may be required to travel as part of their work responsibilities. The position is full-time and involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government officials and international organizations. UNDP offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to diversity and encourages applications from marginalized or excluded populations.