Project Officer (open To Internal & External Applicants)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in India works to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by transforming development models. The Plastic Waste Management Programme (PWM) aims to minimize plastic pollution impacts by enhancing sustainable waste management practices through a socio-technical model, aligning with the Swachh Bharat Mission. This role supports the PWM, focusing on improving waste picker conditions, community engagement, and cross-stakeholder collaboration.

Job Purpose

Under the guidance of the Project Specialist, this role provides strategic, technical, and operational support for the design and implementation of Circular Economy interventions within the Plastic Waste Management Programme. The incumbent ensures effective programme planning, execution, performance management, and stakeholder coordination, aligning with UNDP policies, donor requirements, and national priorities. Key responsibilities include driving the integration of circular economy approaches, climate co-benefits, and gender equality and social inclusion (GESI), while strengthening partnerships, policy engagement, and knowledge systems to deliver sustainable and scalable programme results. The role contributes to achieving the 2030 Agenda by finding country-specific solutions for sustainable development and ensuring no one is left behind.

Responsibilities

Lead the planning and end-to-end implementation of assigned project components, ensuring alignment with project documents, donor requirements, and UNDP policies. Monitor programme performance, identify risks, and implement adaptive management strategies. Provide technical leadership for integrating circular economy principles, climate co-benefits, and social inclusion into programme design and delivery, developing necessary frameworks and tools. Oversee programme operations, including Annual Work Plans, budgets, procurement processes, contract management, and financial planning. Establish and manage strategic partnerships with government, private sector, civil society, and development partners, identifying opportunities for co-financing and programme scale-up. Lead policy engagement, research, and advocacy in Circular Economy, contributing to evidence-based policy development and capacity-building initiatives. Oversee the development and dissemination of knowledge products, strengthen data systems, and ensure GESI integration. Manage risks, ensure compliance with UNDP rules, and maintain quality assurance standards.

Work Experience

A minimum of 2 years of relevant experience (with a Master's degree) or 4 years (with a Bachelor's degree) in areas such as circular economy, plastic waste management, environmental management, or sustainable development programmes is required. Experience in leading complex, multi-stakeholder programmes, engaging with diverse partners, and developing technical frameworks is essential. Desired experience includes working with plastic waste management, EPR, resource efficiency, policy development, proposal writing, and data management.

Skills

Strategic Thinking, Systems Thinking, Effective Decision Making, Project Management, Results-based Management, Partnership Management, Relationship Management, Achieving Results, Innovative Thinking, Continuous Learning, Adaptability, Determination, Engagement and Partnering, Diversity and Inclusion.

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