Area Coordination Associate – Climate Resilience & Water Security Project (UNDP, Marshall Islands)
The Area Coordination Associate position with UNDP in Majuro, Marshall Islands, is a critical role under the Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector (ACWA) project. The project focuses on improving water security, resilience, and governance in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), particularly in 24 atolls and islands that are vulnerable to drought and water shortages due to climate change.
Key Aspects of the Role:http://UNDP Job Posting – Area Coordination Associate
- Community Coordination & Engagement
- Serve as the primary liaison between the project team and local communities, traditional leaders, government officials, and stakeholders.
- Work closely with Mayors, Senators, and traditional leaders (Iroijlaplap, Iroij, Alap) to ensure smooth implementation of project activities.
- Facilitate community and stakeholder consultations to ensure effective participation and feedback.
- Project Implementation Oversight
- Supervise Site Coordinators working in rural and remote communities across multiple islands and atolls.
- Work closely with Field Engineers to oversee installation and construction of water infrastructure projects.
- Monitor project progress and report on implementation efforts.
- Administrative and Logistical Support
- Handle administrative duties such as documenting meetings, responding to inquiries, and maintaining records.
- Assist in planning community workshops and training sessions.
- Ensure project activities align with UNDP regulations and best practices.
- Building Climate Resilience
- Contribute to strengthening water governance by integrating climate risk considerations into policy and decision-making.
- Help communities adapt to climate change through improved rainwater harvesting, storage, and groundwater protection.
Qualifications and Experience Needed:
- Education:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Environmental Management, Education, or a related field (4 years of experience required), OR
- A High School diploma with 7 years of relevant work experience.
- Experience:
- Proven experience in community work, stakeholder engagement, and coordination.
- Knowledge of climate change issues, water resource management, and governance.
- Strong interpersonal and diplomatic skills for working with government officials and local leaders.
- Experience in data collection, reporting, and project documentation.
Preferred Skills:
- Fluency in English is required; Marshallese proficiency is highly desirable.
- Computer skills (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Experience working in Pacific Island nations, atoll environments, or with international organizations (UN experience is a plus).
- Familiarity with UNDP’s stakeholder engagement framework, grievance redress mechanisms, and climate change adaptation strategies.
Work Environment & Travel:
- The role will be based in Majuro, Marshall Islands, with travel required to remote communities across different atolls and islands.
- The project involves collaborating with local governments, community groups, and other stakeholders to address challenges related to water access and climate resilience.
This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of climate change, water security, and sustainable development, contributing directly to the resilience and well-being of communities in the Marshall Islands.
Area Coordination Associate – UNDP
Location: Majuro, Marshall Islands
Agency: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-7)
Duration: 1 Year (with possible extension)
Application Deadline: March 6, 2025
Introduction to the Role
The Area Coordination Associate position plays a vital role in the implementation of the Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector (ACWA) project in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI). The project, which is a collaboration between the Government of the Republic of Marshall Islands (GoRMI) and UNDP, is designed to improve water security, resilience, and governance across the nation’s 24 atolls and islands that are highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change.
As an Area Coordination Associate, the selected candidate will be directly responsible for overseeing project activities in designated communities, working closely with local stakeholders such as traditional leaders, mayors, senators, engineers, site coordinators, and community engagement teams. This role is pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation of water security initiatives, particularly in rural areas where access to clean and reliable water sources is threatened by environmental factors such as drought, saltwater intrusion, and rising sea levels.
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Background on the ACWA Projecthttp://@vacancyspaces.com
The Marshall Islands consists of 24 inhabited atolls and islands spread across a vast ocean area of over 2 million square kilometers, but with a total land area of just 182 square kilometers. The nation faces severe water security challenges due to its geographic and climatic conditions:
- No rivers, lakes, or streams to provide a natural freshwater supply.
- Highly dependent on rainwater harvesting for household and community water needs.
- Groundwater is limited and often contaminated by seawater due to flooding and storm surges.
- Increasing vulnerability to climate change impacts such as prolonged droughts, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events.
To combat these challenges, the ACWA project, co-financed by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), is implementing solutions that focus on:
1. Water Security
- Enhancing rainwater harvesting and storage infrastructure in 77 rural communities to provide a sustainable and climate-resilient water supply.
- Ensuring that 28% of the national population (including 7,630 women) benefit from increased water availability.
2. Water Resilience
- Protecting groundwater resources from contamination by reinforcing barriers against saltwater intrusion caused by storm surges and sea-level rise.
- Introducing adaptive water management strategies to reduce risks associated with extreme weather conditions.
3. Water Governance
- Strengthening national and local governance structures to improve decision-making in water resource management.
- Enhancing technical capacity at the community and institutional levels to integrate climate change risks into water security planning.
The project is aligned with RMI’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement and supports the country’s climate adaptation policies.
Key Responsibilities of the Area Coordination Associate
Under the direct supervision of the Project Manager, the Area Coordination Associate will be responsible for overseeing implementation efforts at the community level. This includes:
1. Managing Project Implementation in Targeted Communities
- Ensure that project activities are effectively carried out across the assigned atolls and islands.
- Coordinate with Field Engineers, Site Coordinators, and Community Engagement Associates to monitor progress.
- Provide logistical and administrative support for project activities, ensuring adherence to UNDP and government guidelines.
2. Community and Stakeholder Coordination
- Serve as the primary liaison between UNDP and local stakeholders (Mayors, Senators, traditional leaders).
- Ensure that project updates are effectively communicated to community leaders and residents.
- Address challenges related to local governance structures and traditional leadership protocols.
3. Supervision of Site Coordinators
- Oversee Site Coordinators working in remote and rural communities.
- Ensure they are provided with adequate training, resources, and guidance to implement project activities.
- Conduct site visits and inspections to track progress.
4. Project Reporting and Documentation
- Work closely with Field Engineers to document the installation and construction of water infrastructure.
- Compile progress reports detailing project milestones, challenges, and recommendations.
- Maintain accurate records of community engagement efforts.
5. Supporting Community Engagement & Capacity-Building Initiatives
- Facilitate stakeholder consultations, workshops, and training programs.
- Ensure local communities understand and actively participate in the project.
- Address concerns raised by residents, providing feedback to the Project Management Unit (PMU).
Required Qualifications & Experience
Education Requirements:
- Option 1: Bachelor’s degree (first-level university degree) in Social Science, Education, Environmental Management, or related fields, with 4 years of relevant experience.
- Option 2: A Secondary School Certificate (High School Diploma) with 7 years of relevant experience.
Work Experience:
- Proven experience in community engagement, coordination, and stakeholder management.
- Experience working on climate change, water governance, or environmental management projects is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with traditional governance structures in the Marshall Islands is an advantage.
- Previous experience with international organizations (such as UNDP) is a plus.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Ability to compile and analyze project data, prepare reports, and present findings.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Language Requirements:
- Fluency in English (oral and written) is required.
- Proficiency in Marshallese is strongly preferred.
Work Environment and Travel Expectations
- The position is based in Majuro, Marshall Islands, but frequent travel to remote atolls and islands is required.
- Travel may involve boat and air transportation, which is subject to availability, weather conditions, and logistical constraints.
- The role requires adaptability and resilience, as it involves working in remote environments with limited infrastructure.
Why This Role is Important?
The Area Coordination Associate position offers a unique opportunity to make a real impact in addressing climate change challenges in the Pacific region. By supporting water security initiatives, this role helps to:
- Improve access to clean drinking water for thousands of residents.
- Protect communities from climate change impacts, including droughts and saltwater intrusion.
- Strengthen local governance structures for better water management.
- Foster collaboration between government agencies, international organizations, and local leaders.
This role is ideal for candidates passionate about climate resilience, sustainable development, and community-based projects. It provides an excellent platform to gain experience in international development work, particularly in Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Job Title: Area Coordination Associate
Location: Majuro, Marshall Islands
Agency: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Project: Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector (ACWA)
Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-7)
Duration: 1 Year (Renewable)
Application Deadline: March 6, 2025
Introduction to the Role
The Area Coordination Associate position is a crucial role within the ACWA project, a climate adaptation initiative funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (GoRMI). This position is based in Majuro, Marshall Islands, and focuses on supporting project implementation, community engagement, and infrastructure development to ensure sustainable climate resilience and water security across the country’s 24 atolls and islands.
With its low-lying geography, limited freshwater sources, and increasing vulnerability to climate change, the Marshall Islands is at the forefront of the climate crisis. Water scarcity is a persistent issue due to reliance on rainwater harvesting, the intrusion of saltwater into groundwater supplies, and prolonged periods of drought. The ACWA project aims to mitigate these challenges by enhancing water infrastructure, governance, and resilience mechanisms for over 16,000 people, including 7,630 women across 77 rural communities.
As an Area Coordination Associate, the selected candidate will play a vital role in the project’s success, ensuring that activities are carried out effectively at the community level. This includes coordinating stakeholders, supervising site coordinators, overseeing project implementation, and ensuring community participation. The role is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about climate resilience, sustainable development, and environmental governance.
Context: Climate Change and Water Security in the Marshall Islands
The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) is a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) consisting of 29 atolls and 5 islands, spread across 2 million square kilometers of the Pacific Ocean. The country faces significant challenges in ensuring sustainable water access due to:
1. Limited Freshwater Resources
- There are no rivers, lakes, or natural reservoirs in the country.
- Communities rely almost entirely on rainwater harvesting for drinking water.
- Groundwater sources are vulnerable to saltwater intrusion due to storm surges and rising sea levels.
2. Climate Change Impacts on Water Availability
- Prolonged droughts are increasingly common, reducing available water supply.
- Rising sea levels cause coastal flooding, contaminating water sources with seawater.
- Storm surges and typhoons damage existing water infrastructure, leading to periodic water crises.
3. Challenges in Water Infrastructure and Governance
- Many rural communities lack proper water storage and filtration systems.
- Weak governance structures and limited financial resources slow progress in water management.
- There is a need for community-driven solutions to improve water security and disaster preparedness.
The ACWA project, through coordinated implementation and community participation, seeks to address these challenges by developing sustainable water solutions that enhance resilience in the most vulnerable communities.
Core Responsibilities of the Area Coordination Associate
As a member of the Project Management Unit (PMU), the Area Coordination Associate is responsible for ensuring that the ACWA project is implemented efficiently at the local and regional levels.
1. Project Implementation in Rural Communities
- Oversee project activities across assigned atolls and islands, ensuring alignment with the project’s goals.
- Work closely with community leaders, engineers, and site coordinators to monitor progress.
- Ensure that all project interventions meet national and UNDP standards.
- Provide technical and logistical support for field operations.
2. Coordination with Key Stakeholders
- Act as the primary liaison between UNDP, local governments, traditional leaders, and community members.
- Build strong relationships with local Mayors, Senators, and community-based organizations to facilitate project implementation.
- Ensure community concerns and needs are addressed through participatory decision-making.
3. Supervision of Site Coordinators
- Oversee on-the-ground Site Coordinators stationed in remote locations.
- Provide them with guidance, technical assistance, and problem-solving support.
- Ensure timely reporting of project progress, challenges, and successes from each site.
4. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting
- Collect data and progress updates on project interventions, particularly in water infrastructure development.
- Document best practices, lessons learned, and areas for improvement.
- Prepare weekly and monthly reports for the Project Manager and stakeholders.
5. Community Engagement & Capacity-Building
- Organize community training sessions on water management, sanitation, and climate resilience.
- Promote the inclusion of women, youth, and marginalized groups in decision-making processes.
- Conduct awareness campaigns on water conservation and disaster preparedness.
Key Challenges and How This Role Addresses Them
1. Geographic Dispersal and Logistical Constraints
- The Marshall Islands consists of far-flung atolls and islands, making transportation and coordination logistically complex.
- Solution: The Area Coordination Associate will strategically plan field visits, utilize remote monitoring tools, and collaborate with local stakeholders to ensure effective project implementation.
2. Cultural and Traditional Governance Dynamics
- Traditional leadership structures play a significant role in community decision-making.
- Solution: The Associate must navigate these structures diplomatically, ensuring project goals align with local customs and traditions while promoting inclusive governance.
3. Limited Resources and Climate Vulnerability
- Many communities have inadequate water infrastructure and are highly vulnerable to climate change impacts.
- Solution: The Associate will work with engineers to prioritize infrastructure investments and engage communities in sustainable water management practices.
Long-Term Impact of the Role
By successfully coordinating and implementing ACWA project activities, the Area Coordination Associate will contribute to:
1. Improved Water Security
- Ensure sustainable water access for over 16,000 people.
- Reduce dependency on rainwater harvesting by introducing alternative water sources.
2. Strengthened Climate Resilience
- Protect groundwater from saltwater intrusion and contamination.
- Implement disaster risk reduction strategies in vulnerable communities.
3. Enhanced Governance and Community Participation
- Build strong local institutions to manage water resources efficiently.
- Promote community ownership of climate adaptation strategies.
4. Capacity Development for Future Sustainability
- Train local leaders, community members, and youth in water governance and climate resilience.
- Foster long-term sustainability through education and awareness programs.
Qualifications & Experience Required
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Environmental Studies, Public Administration, or a related field with 4 years of experience.
- Alternatively, a Secondary School Certificate (High School Diploma) with 7 years of relevant experience.
Work Experience:
- Experience in community engagement, project coordination, or development work.
- Familiarity with climate change adaptation, water governance, and environmental sustainability is preferred.
Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Strong analytical and reporting skills.
- Ability to work in remote and challenging environments.
Language Requirements:
- Fluency in English (spoken and written).
- Proficiency in Marshallese is highly desirable.
How to Apply?
Interested applicants should submit their resume and cover letter via the UNDP careers portal before March 6, 2025.
