Programme Management Specialist - Environment and Climate Change

Organizational Context

UNDP in Papua New Guinea (PNG) focuses on sustainable development, strengthening governance, environmental sustainability, and inclusive growth. The organization partners with the PNG government to reduce poverty, protect natural resources, and build resilient communities. Within its Environment and Climate portfolio, UNDP PNG collaborates with the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) and local authorities to improve waste management, reduce marine plastic pollution, and enhance policy frameworks. This work addresses challenges posed by urbanization and infrastructure gaps, aiming for improved programme coherence and delivery.

Job Purpose

This role supports UNDP's efforts in Papua New Guinea to address critical environmental challenges, particularly in solid waste management and marine plastic pollution. The assignment aims to enhance programme coherence by strengthening coordination between JICA-supported initiatives (J-PRISM Phase 3) and UNDP's GEF 8 Blue Green Programme. The UN Volunteer will play a key role in facilitating linkages between national and subnational stakeholders, supporting the implementation of waste management and marine plastic reduction activities, and contributing to policy development. The position is crucial for improving programme delivery, monitoring, and coordination within the Environment and Climate portfolio, ultimately contributing to environmental sustainability and institutional strengthening in PNG.

Responsibilities

The UN Volunteer will support the implementation and coordination of J-PRISM Phase 3 activities, strengthening collaboration among national stakeholders, local authorities, and participating cities. This includes facilitating knowledge exchange, documenting lessons learned, and identifying synergies with UNDP initiatives. The role also involves supporting UNDP's waste management and marine plastic reduction projects, tracking progress, and contributing to technical and donor reports. A key responsibility is assisting CEPA in finalizing and operationalizing the national waste management policy, facilitating stakeholder consultations, and promoting alignment between policy objectives and ongoing interventions. Furthermore, the volunteer will provide programme and coordination support to the Assistant Resident Representative, assisting with planning, monitoring, reporting, and resource mobilization for the Environment and Climate portfolio. This includes preparing programme documents, facilitating meetings, and conducting research on relevant environmental priorities.

Work Experience

A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant professional experience is required, specifically in environmental management or solid waste management. Experience in implementing environmental or waste management programmes, engaging with stakeholders, and working with government entities is essential. Familiarity with 3R approaches and integrated waste management systems is also necessary. Experience in programme support, planning, or portfolio coordination, along with knowledge of UNDP programme cycles and results-based management, is considered an asset.

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, building trust, client orientation, commitment to continuous learning, communication, creativity, ethics, integrity, knowledge sharing, planning, organization, professionalism, respect for diversity, self-management, technological awareness, and teamwork. Expertise in development programmes, community development, and administration is also relevant.

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