Social and Environmental Safeguards Officer
Organizational Context
UNDP Uganda is implementing a new five-year Country Program Document (CPD) for 2026-2030, focusing on youth, women, and digital transformation. This CPD aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework and supports Uganda's national development priorities, including sustainable environmental governance. The role of Social and Environmental Safeguards Officer is crucial for ensuring all projects adhere to UNDP's social and environmental standards.
Job Purpose
The Social and Environmental Safeguards Officer will serve as the primary focal point for all safeguards-related activities within the UNDP Uganda Country Office. This role is responsible for coordinating and supporting the development and implementation of social and environmental management frameworks and risk management plans for all projects. The officer ensures that project activities are conducted in strict accordance with UNDP's Social and Environmental Standards, contributing to sustainable development and minimizing potential negative impacts. This position is integral to the Management Support Unit (MSU) and supports the overall mission of UNDP in Uganda.
Responsibilities
The Social and Environmental Safeguards Officer will develop and review instruments, guidelines, and tools for implementing environmental and social safeguards, ensuring compliance with UNDP and Government of Uganda requirements. Responsibilities include participating in project implementation, facilitating safeguard monitoring plans, and reviewing social and environmental issues. The officer will assess potential environmental and social risks, recommend mitigation measures, and update screening procedures. Additionally, the role involves preparing technical briefs and reports on compliance, supporting the quality control of M&E products, updating the project risk log, and providing overall support to the Country Office on safeguards compliance. Key outputs include updated ESMFs, ESMPs, monitoring reports, and grievance redress mechanism registers.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of experience in social and environmental safeguards and/or impact assessment within an international development context is required for candidates with a Master's degree. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree require a minimum of four years of relevant experience. Prior experience with UNDP projects is desirable.
Skills
Proficiency in MS Office software. Experience in risk management, monitoring and evaluation, and results-based management. Understanding of social and environmental standards, systems for managing risk, and system thinking. Fluency in English is required; knowledge of a local language is desired.