National Project Assistant for FOLUR
Organizational Context
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Indonesia is implementing the FOLUR project, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). This initiative, led by the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs with support from UNDP and FAO, aims to enhance sustainable value chains for palm oil, coffee, and cocoa. It employs a comprehensive land use approach integrating biodiversity conservation, restoration, and production at scale. The project addresses environmental challenges posed by commodity crop management and agricultural practices, promoting sustainable sourcing and farmer capacity building within integrated landscape management frameworks.
Job Purpose
The National Project Assistant for FOLUR will provide crucial support to the National Project Manager and the Project Management Unit (PMU) in Jakarta. The role involves ensuring the consistent implementation of UNDP, FAO, and project-specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), alongside adherence to the Government of Indonesia's regulations. This position is integral to the effective execution of project activities, contributing to the overall goals of strengthening sustainability in commodity and food systems, land restoration, and land use governance through integrated landscape management.
Responsibilities
The National Project Assistant will be responsible for supporting various project phases. This includes assisting in planning by collecting and summarizing data, supporting the formulation of work plans, and preparing/reviewing project documents for compliance. During implementation, the assistant will help prepare activities, consolidate progress data, review expenditures against budgets, and support the implementation of SOPs. Monitoring duties involve developing tools, tracking activity implementation, expenditures, and progress, and participating in field visits. Reporting responsibilities include collecting and analyzing data for results-based reports, assisting with co-financing documentation, and supporting the preparation of various project reports, including bi-annual PPRs and annual PIRs. The role also encompasses knowledge management, including supporting events and documenting good practices.
Work Experience
A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in relevant project management is required, with a preference for experience in agriculture or rural development. Experience supporting the administration of government and UN/FAO/UNDP development projects, particularly those related to environmental issues, is highly desirable.
Skills
Essential skills include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. Technical skills encompass meeting/workshop organization, facilitation, administrative support, project planning, implementation, monitoring, reporting, and knowledge management. The candidate should demonstrate strong corporate knowledge, sound judgment, initiative, and the ability to manage conflict and facilitate teamwork. Proficiency in computer skills, including spreadsheets and databases, is required. Familiarity with government and UN/FAO/UNDP procedures is desirable.