Programme Management - Senior Officer [National Coordinator Caretaker]

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is a central resource of the United Nations that supports partners in building a better future by providing services that enhance the efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects. Established to facilitate project management, procurement, and infrastructure services, UNOPS operates in approximately 125 countries, collaborating with governments, donors, and various UN organizations. The organization is committed to sustainable development and has a significant focus on community-based initiatives, particularly through its Small Grants Programme (SGP), which has supported over 25,000 projects aimed at addressing global environmental issues and improving livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management - Senior Officer [National Coordinator Caretaker] position is crucial for overseeing ongoing SGP grant projects within Eswatini. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the SGP Regional Focal Point and will coordinate closely with various stakeholders, including the National Steering Committee, UNDP Country Office, and GMS team. The role involves conducting project monitoring field visits, providing technical and operational support to grantees, and ensuring that project proposals align with SGP's strategic initiatives. The officer will also be responsible for organizing workshops, capacity-building training, and documenting lessons learned from the projects. This position is designed for a candidate who can effectively manage and evaluate projects while ensuring compliance with UNOPS standards and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Management - Senior Officer include overseeing ongoing SGP grant projects, conducting periodic project monitoring field visits, and providing technical and operational support to SGP grantees. The officer will organize calls for proposals, support the National Steering Committee in project proposal reviews, and exercise quality control over project ideas and concepts. Additionally, the officer will monitor program implementation progress, organize stakeholder workshops, and assist civil society organizations in preparing project concepts. The role also involves reviewing grantees' reports, providing capacity-building training on project cycle management, and undertaking monitoring and evaluation of the SGP Country Programme. Administrative tasks such as procurement and travel coordination will also be part of the responsibilities, along with documenting program/project stories and developing annual reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as environment, natural resource management, or business administration, with at least two years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) with four years of relevant experience is acceptable. Relevant experience includes work in environment, development, monitoring and evaluation, and program/project management. Experience in gender-sensitive programming and knowledge of SGP and NGO grant management are desirable but not mandatory. Candidates with no prior UN or UNOPS experience are encouraged to apply, promoting diversity and inclusion within the workforce.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields related to environment, natural resource management, environmental economics, development, or business administration. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) is also acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant experience. The emphasis is on candidates who have a strong academic foundation in areas that align with the responsibilities of the role, particularly those that support sustainable development and project management.

Experience:
The position requires relevant experience defined as work in the environment, development, monitoring and evaluation, and related fields. Candidates should have experience in program/project management at the national level, demonstrating their ability to manage and evaluate projects effectively. Desirable experience includes gender-sensitive programming and familiarity with SGP and NGO grant management, although these are not mandatory for application.

Languages:
Fluency in English (reading, writing, speaking) is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local consultancy role for which only applicants with Eswatini nationality are eligible. The contract type is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) on a retainer basis, with a duration of 8 months and the possibility of extension based on organizational needs and performance. The contract will specify a unit price per day worked, and payment will be made upon completion of work. The position is classified as Local Individual Contractor Agreement (L-ICA 9). UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and underrepresented groups. Candidates should be prepared to complete mandatory courses before commencing work, and all personnel are subject to background checks.