Project Coordinator/Environmental Policy Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, employing over 17,000 staff members. The organization works to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development initiatives, providing expertise and support to countries in their development efforts. UNDP's Global Policy Network (GPN) integrates local knowledge with global perspectives to address complex development challenges, ensuring that its policy work is informed by both local realities and international best practices.

Job Overview:
The Project Coordinator/Environmental Policy Analyst will play a crucial role in the implementation of the Biodiversity Finance Plan project in Turkmenistan, which is part of the GEF8 Umbrella programme. This position requires a strong commitment to sustainable development and biodiversity conservation, as the incumbent will coordinate all aspects of the project, ensuring alignment with national priorities and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. The role involves developing project work and procurement plans, overseeing project activities, and ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints. The Project Coordinator will work closely with national stakeholders, including government agencies and partners, to facilitate collaboration and ensure the project's success.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Coordinator/Environmental Policy Analyst will be responsible for the overall management of in-country activities, including the development and implementation of work plans and budgets. Key responsibilities include supervising national consultants, organizing project workshops, maintaining communication with relevant ministries, and ensuring the timely identification of risks. The incumbent will also provide technical leadership, ensuring the integration of workstreams and quality assurance of national products. Specific tasks include leading the preparation of the Biodiversity Finance Plan, coordinating outreach activities, and drafting reports and policy briefs for various stakeholders. The role requires strong project management skills and the ability to engage with a wide range of partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in Environmental/Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity, Management, Political Studies, Social Sciences, or related fields. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree in these areas combined with an additional 2 years of relevant experience will be considered. The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience with a Master's degree or 4 years with a Bachelor's degree in implementing environment/biodiversity projects. Experience in environmental policy assessment and management of work teams is essential. Proficiency in office software and web-based management systems is required, along with strong analytical and communication skills.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as Environmental/Natural Resource Management, Biodiversity, Management, Political Studies, or Social Sciences is required. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree in these areas and additional qualifying experience will also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in environmental issues, policy analysis, and project management.

Experience:
The position requires at least 2 years of relevant experience in the implementation of environment/biodiversity projects for candidates with a Master's degree, or 4 years for those with a Bachelor's degree. Experience should include managing teams, conducting assessments, and formulating recommendations related to environmental policies and strategies. Familiarity with the UN system or international development organizations is advantageous, as is experience in partnership building with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Russian is required for this position. Knowledge of Turkmen is considered desirable, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the project implementation.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Turkmenistan, and the selected candidate will be part of the National Project Management Unit (NPMU). The role involves collaboration with government agencies and other stakeholders, and the incumbent will be expected to adhere to UNDP's standards of conduct, including a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The organization values equal opportunity and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination in any form. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions.