Project Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization dedicated to eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and combating climate change. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in 170 countries, working with a diverse network of experts and partners to develop integrated solutions for sustainable development. The organization is committed to achieving workforce diversity and encourages applications from individuals of minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities. UNDP emphasizes the importance of confidentiality in the application process and maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment. The organization has a long-standing presence in Lao PDR, focusing on national socio-economic development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Project Coordinator will play a crucial role in the day-to-day implementation of projects in Lao PDR, working under the supervision of the Programme Analyst at the UNDP Country Office. This position requires close collaboration with both programme and operations staff at the Country Office and technical advisors at the Bangkok Regional Hub. The Project Coordinator will be responsible for effective project planning and implementation, ensuring that work plans and budgets are prepared in accordance with UNDP guidelines. The role involves managing project activities, providing technical advice, and ensuring that outputs are delivered on time and within budget. The Project Coordinator will also facilitate stakeholder engagement, support resource mobilization efforts, and monitor project progress, ensuring alignment with UNDP policies and gender equality perspectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Coordinator's duties include coordinating project planning and implementation, managing day-to-day activities, providing technical support, establishing partnerships, and facilitating knowledge sharing. Specific responsibilities involve developing project work plans and budgets, ensuring timely procurement of goods and services, maintaining stakeholder relationships, monitoring project progress, preparing reports, and organizing capacity-building activities. The Project Coordinator will also conduct field visits, liaise with finance teams, and ensure proper operational and financial closure of projects. Additionally, the role requires promoting advocacy on development trends and opportunities for collaboration with stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Natural Resources Management, Climate Change, Environment, Energy, or International Development. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. Relevant experience at the national or international level in management advisory services or project design, monitoring, and evaluation is essential. Proficiency in office software and knowledge of thematic areas related to biodiversity, climate change, and governance are also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in fields related to natural resources, climate change, environment, energy, finance, social protection, or international development is required. A bachelor's degree in these areas, along with additional qualifying experience, may also be acceptable.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of relevant experience is required for candidates with a master's degree, or 4 years for those with a bachelor's degree. Experience should include management advisory services, project design, monitoring, and evaluation. Familiarity with UN agencies, NGOs, and public international organizations is advantageous, as is a proven track record in technical knowledge of development issues relevant to UNDP projects.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Lao is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as requirements.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Vientiane, Lao PDR, and may involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including government officials, NGOs, and the private sector. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and values diversity in its workforce. The organization reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.