Programme Associate, Environment and Climate Change

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) operates in approximately 170 countries, focusing on poverty eradication, reducing inequalities, and exclusion. The UNDP Multi-Country Office (MCO) in Samoa covers Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, and Tokelau, implementing the Subregional Programme aligned with the 2030 Agenda and SDGs. It collaborates with governments, donors, civil society, and local communities to address complex development challenges in the Pacific Islands. The office promotes inclusive, blue-green, and pro-poor growth, effective governance, and sustainable, resilient development, with a focus on gender equality, youth empowerment, and leaving no one behind.

Job Purpose

This position provides crucial technical, analytical, and operational support to the UNDP Samoa MCO's environment and climate change programmes. The role aims to strengthen project planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting, ensuring effective programme delivery. The UN Volunteer will enhance stakeholder engagement and contribute to knowledge management and capacity-building initiatives. The objective is to advance Samoa's sustainable development priorities and climate resilience efforts, aligning with the UNDP Multi-Country Programme Document (MCPD) for the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (2023-27). Key focus areas include sustainable resource management, biodiversity conservation, and climate and disaster resilience.

Responsibilities

The Programme Associate will support the Environment and Climate Change Unit (ECCU) in implementing and coordinating the MCO's portfolio. Key duties include assisting in project and programme planning, coordination, and implementation, particularly for projects funded by partners like the Global Environment Facility (GEF). This involves supporting monitoring, tracking progress, identifying challenges, and proposing solutions. The role requires assisting in the preparation and review of reports, work plans, and other documentation in collaboration with government counterparts and partners. Contributions to resource mobilization, including drafting proposals and supporting budget/procurement processes, are essential. Additionally, the Associate will conduct research, analyze data, and prepare briefs on environmental management, biodiversity, climate adaptation, and sustainable land use. Organizing workshops, training sessions, and consultations, documenting lessons learned, and supporting engagement with government agencies, development partners, and civil society are also key responsibilities.

Work Experience

A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience is required. This includes experience in supporting the implementation and monitoring of environmental and climate change projects, preferably funded by international partners. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to assist with project planning, reporting, work plan preparation, and coordination with diverse stakeholders. Good research, analytical, organizational, and communication skills are essential.

Skills

Core competencies include Accountability, Professionalism, Ethics and Values, Respect for Diversity, Adaptability and Flexibility, Commitment to Continuous Learning, and Building Trust. Technical skills and expertise areas include Communication, Community Development, and Development Programmes.

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