Landscape Project Coordinator

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's lead agency for international development, working in 170 countries to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality. In India, UNDP has been active since 1951, supporting national development priorities and accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The new Country Programme (2023-2027) focuses on strong institutions, enhanced economic opportunities, and climate-smart solutions. The Action for Climate and Environment (ACE) Unit specifically addresses climate change, natural resource management, and biodiversity conservation, supporting India's commitments to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

Job Purpose

The Landscape Project Coordinator will support the implementation of the GEF-7 project "Sustainable management and restoration of degraded landscapes for achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) in India." This role is crucial for achieving LDN by creating carbon sinks through ecosystem-based restoration of degraded lands and enabling institutional frameworks for sustainable land management. The coordinator will work under the supervision of the District Collector (DC) and the Landscape Project Management Unit, facilitating project activities, stakeholder coordination, and reporting. The objective is to contribute to the restoration of 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030 and generate sustained environmental and economic benefits.

Responsibilities

The Landscape Project Coordinator will assist the Landscape Project Officer in coordinating and implementing project activities according to the project document and results framework, under the guidance of the DC and District Forest Officer (DFO). Key duties include coordinating with the multi-stakeholder Landscape Level Coordinating Committee, developing landscape-specific annual work plans, and providing administrative and operational support. This involves managing information flow, preparing expenditure reports, assisting with documents and presentations, and facilitating data collection from line departments. The role also entails maintaining financial records, managing vendor contracts, processing payments, and assisting in the preparation of legal documents for procurement. Organizing meetings, workshops, and training sessions, along with providing administrative and logistical support, is essential. The coordinator will compile data from implementing partners, interact with state departments for knowledge sharing and best practices, and contribute to progress reports for MoEFCC and UNDP. Support for resource mobilization and other project-related tasks assigned by supervisors is also required.

Work Experience

A minimum of 3 years of overall experience is required, with 4 years of relevant experience. This includes field-level experience in implementing environmental projects at the block level with community collaboration, and proven expertise in operations and administration. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs/INGOs, or the UN on projects with central ministries is desirable. Proficiency in MS Office Suite and the ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and adapt to challenging environments are also important.

Skills

Key competencies include Accountability, Adaptability and Flexibility, Building Trust, Commitment and Motivation, Commitment to Continuous Learning, Communication, Creativity, Ethics and Values, Integrity, Planning and Organizing, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity, Self-Management, and Working in Teams. Specific skills include expertise in Administration, Community Development, and Development Programmes.

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