Project Officer (only Ugandan nationals should apply)

The Ecosystem Based Adaptation (EBA) Programme for Mountain Ecosystems in Uganda, Nepal and Peru aims strengthen the capacities of these three countries, which are particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, to strengthen ecosystem resilience for promoting ecosystem-based adaptation (EBA) options and to reduce the vulnerability of communities, with particular emphasis on mountain ecosystems. The programme is funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) through its International Climate Initiative, and is implemented through a partnership of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Climate change impacts are already affecting the functioning and integrity of several ecosystems and are adding to the stress resulting from other anthropogenic interventions such as unsustainable land use practices. The project countries and targeted ecosystems have been identified as particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts. A multitude of communities depend upon the services provided by these ecosystems. Specifially the project will support: (i) the development of methodologies and tools for mountain ecosystems; (ii) the application of the above tools and methodologies at the national level; (iii) the implementation of EBA pilots at the ecosystem level; and (iv) the formulation of national policies and building an economic case for EBA at the national level. The project will create new opportunities for experimental learning between regions and among countries within the same region. Through parallel and cooperative development and application of methodologies and tools and the implementation of pilot projects, the project will shorten the learning curve of local and national institutions and fast-track the transfer of knowledge and experience in relation to building ecosystem resilience. UNDP, on behalf of the partnership, wishes to contract a qualified candidate for the Post of Project Officer for the UNDP Project Component to be implemented in Sironko and Bulambuli Districts for 3 years. The contract will be performance-based and yearly renewable based on a positive assessment of the incumbent’s performance. Terms and conditions of service linked to type of proposed contract will apply.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Project Officer shall report to the National Coordinator of the EBA project based in the Ministry of Water and Environment (Implementing partner): The Project Officer shall coordinate project activities in Sironko and Bulambuli District Local Governments as Responsible parties. The Project Officer shall liaise with the Districts of Sironko and Bulambuli through the Chief Administrative Officers. The Project Officer shall also liaise with IUCN project activities in Kapchorwa and Kween Districts on a regular basis to create synergies between the two project components. Provide co-ordination, management and supervision of project implementation activities in Sironko and Bulambuli Districts. Develop a detailed work plan for the project at inception phase. Control expenditures and ensure an adequate management of the resources provided for the project. Prepare periodic progress reports on the project as per UNDP requirements. Organize and facilitate district / field level workshops. Liaise with the National Coordinator who will be the secretary to the Project Board. Liaise with the District Chief Administrative Officers, District Technical Planning Committees and relevant Sub Counties of Sironko and Bulambuli Districts. Liaise with relevant Community Based Organisations within Sironko and Bulambuli Districts among others to further the project objectives. Liaise with local experts and consultants on assigned tasks. Manage and monitor delivery of outputs by local experts and institutions to work for the project in line with Terms of Reference. Coordinate between the National Coordinator and local experts, regarding all the necessary training, templates, methodologies and support to undertake their data collection functions. Regularly liaise with project partners including IUCN, UNEP (World Conservation Monitoring Centre -WCMC), Sironko, Bulambuli, Kapchorwa and Kween Districts. Plan for ensuring project sustainability and replication, collect lessons learned from the project. Ensure that the necessary monitoring mechanisms are built in the daily and periodic activities during the project implementation. Any other duties assigned to him from time to time by the National Coordinator.

Competencies

Demonstrated knowledge and experience in working on policy development and capacity building - this includes use of methodologies that maximize performance for ecosystem-based adaptation. Strong knowledge / experience in results-based management and results-oriented approach to project implementation. Strong inter-personal skills, communication, networking and team-building skills; competent in leading teams and creating team spirit, management of inter-group dynamics and conflicting interests of various actors, stimulating team members to produce quality outputs in a timely and transparent fashion. Excellent oral and written skills, with analytic capacity and ability to synthesize project outputs and relevant findings for the preparation of quality papers and reports. Results driven, ability to work under pressure and to meet strict deadlines; remains calm and in control under pressure. Consistently approaches work with energy and a positive, constructive attitude. Shares knowledge and experience actively, mentors project staff. Focuses on result for the client and responds positively to feedback. Demonstrates commitment to the mission, vision and values of UNEP, UNDP and IUCN. Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability. Technical knowledge and understanding of climate change and ecosystem-based adaptation, as well as community-based natural resource management Advanced project management skills, with ability to keep large, complex projects on track, deal effectively with problems and fulfil reporting requirements in a timely manner. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing in order to communicate complex, technical information to technical and general audiences. Skill in negotiating effectively in sensitive situations. Skill in achieving results through persuading, influencing and working with others. Skill in facilitating meetings effectively and efficiently and to resolve conflicts as they arise. Experience in working with computers.

Required Skills and Experience

Education: Bachelors Degree in environmental studies, natural science, or related qualification from a recognized University. with expertise in the area of biodiversity conservation, protected area management, natural resources, climate change, and energy. Experience: Minimum 2 years’ work experience in a relevant field such as community-based natural resource management or climate change adaptation. Experience in managing large-scale projects. Experience in ecosystem-based adaptation would be an advantage. Relevant experience of working with government agencies, District Local Governments, local communities and international organizations. Language: Fluency in written and spoken English.

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Project Officer (only Ugandan nationals should apply)