Technical Officer, Community Co-Management – Comprehensive Job Overview & Career Guide
The Technical Officer, Community Co-Management position with UNDP in Paramaribo, Suriname is a full-time role focused on working with local communities to protect and sustainably manage mangrove forests and Multiple Use Management Areas (MUMAs). This is part of the Protection, Restoration, and Sustainable Use of Mangrove Forest (PRSUMF) project (2024-2027), which builds on previous conservation efforts.
Why This Job Mattershttp://Technical Officer, Community Co-Management – UNDP Suriname
Mangroves are essential for coastal protection, biodiversity, and climate change adaptation. Suriname’s coastline is largely covered by mangroves, and most of the country’s population lives in these coastal areas. The UNDP, in partnership with the European Union, is working to strengthen coastal zone management, increase community participation, and support sustainable income opportunities (e.g., honey production, fisheries, and nature tourism).
Key Responsibilities@vacancyspaces.com
1. Community Engagement & Capacity Building
- Work directly with local communities to involve them in co-managing mangroves and MUMAs.
- Organize training sessions for government experts and local communities on land use planning, coastal mapping, and nature-based solutions.
- Ensure gender inclusion, so that both men and women have equal opportunities to participate in mangrove protection efforts.
2. Strengthening Local Decision-Making
- Support local authorities and community groups in making sustainable land-use decisions.
- Help revitalize MUMA management organizations.
- Assist in assessing and implementing nature-based solutions to protect and restore mangroves.
3. Knowledge Management & Research
- Conduct baseline studies and support research activities to track project impact.
- Prepare reports, case studies, and lessons learned.
- Help develop awareness campaigns to educate people about the importance of mangrove conservation.
4. Partnership Development
- Work with government agencies, NGOs, local organizations, and community leaders.
- Maintain relationships with key stakeholders to ensure successful project implementation.
- Support stakeholder engagement and networking for better policy integration.
5. Project Management & Monitoring
- Assist in developing work plans, progress reports, and project evaluations.
- Support the hiring of experts and consultants.
- Ensure that the project stays on track with its goals and timeline.
Qualifications & Skills Required
Education
- Master’s degree in environmental management, socio-economics, or a related field (preferred).
- Bachelor’s degree + 2 years of relevant work experience is also accepted.
Experience
- No work experience required if you have a Master’s degree.
- If you have a Bachelor’s degree, at least 2 years of experience in community engagement and participation is required.
- Experience with mangrove management, donor-funded projects, or government/NGO partnerships is a plus.
Languages
- Fluency in Dutch is required.
- English proficiency is preferred.
Competencies & Skills Needed
- Strong communication & stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Experience with project planning, partnership building, and gender inclusion.
- Analytical thinking & problem-solving for sustainable community solutions.
- Knowledge of coastal ecosystem management & nature-based solutions.
Why Apply?
This job is ideal if you are passionate about climate change, conservation, and community empowerment. You will work on a high-impact UNDP project, help protect Suriname’s coastline, and contribute to sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.
Technical Officer, Community Co-Management – A Detailed Breakdown
The Technical Officer, Community Co-Management role is a full-time position based in Paramaribo, Suriname, under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It falls under the National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA) – Level 8 and is part of the Nature, Climate, and Energy practice area. The position is crucial to the Protection, Restoration, and Sustainable Use of Mangrove Forest (PRSUMF) project (2024-2027).
This initiative is a joint effort between UNDP and the European Union (EU), aiming to enhance the resilience of coastal communities, strengthen mangrove conservation, and support sustainable economic activities in Suriname.
Background: Why This Role Matters
Mangrove forests play an essential role in coastal protection, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods. Suriname is home to 2% of the world’s total mangroves, covering 90% of its 386-kilometer coastline. However, rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and coastal erosion pose serious threats to these ecosystems and the people who depend on them.
Suriname’s low-lying coastal regions are home to nearly 90% of its population. The conservation of mangroves is not just an environmental concern but also a social and economic necessity. Mangroves serve as natural barriers, protecting communities from storm surges and erosion while supporting fisheries, tourism, and biodiversity.
The UNDP, in partnership with the European Union, has been actively involved in mangrove conservation in Suriname through two phases of the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA+) programme:
- Phase 1 (2016-2019): Focused on awareness, research, and initial conservation efforts.
- Phase 2 (2020-2023): Strengthened mangrove protection and community involvement.
Building on this foundation, the PRSUMF project (2024-2027) aims to take conservation efforts to the next level by:
- Strengthening coastal governance and policies to support integrated coastal management.
- Enhancing community participation in mangrove co-management.
- Developing sustainable economic activities related to mangroves (e.g., honey production, fisheries, ecotourism).
The Role of the Technical Officer, Community Co-Management
This position is crucial in mobilizing communities, fostering local leadership, and ensuring effective community-led conservation efforts. The Technical Officer will work closely with local stakeholders, government bodies, NGOs, and indigenous communities to ensure the long-term protection and sustainable use of Suriname’s mangrove forests.
Key Responsibilities
The job responsibilities fall into five main categories:
1. Promoting Community Engagement in Mangrove Co-Management
- Strengthen community governance structures for managing mangroves and Multiple Use Management Areas (MUMAs).
- Conduct capacity-building sessions to educate local communities, government officials, and other stakeholders on sustainable mangrove management.
- Organize consultations and participatory decision-making processes at the district and community levels.
- Promote traditional and indigenous knowledge in mangrove conservation efforts.
- Facilitate conflict resolution mechanisms between different stakeholders to ensure fair and inclusive management.
- Integrate gender-sensitive approaches, ensuring that women and youth are active participants in conservation efforts.
2. Strengthening Governance & Decision-Making for Sustainable Mangrove Use
- Work with local governments, policymakers, and community leaders to create stronger governance frameworks for mangrove conservation.
- Assist in revitalizing MUMA management organizations to enhance local decision-making.
- Provide support for community-based nature-based solutions, such as reforestation projects and sustainable aquaculture initiatives.
- Develop mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating mangrove conservation efforts.
3. Conducting Research & Knowledge Sharing
- Support baseline studies to understand the current state of mangrove ecosystems and community involvement.
- Conduct field research to assess best practices in community co-management.
- Prepare reports, policy briefs, and case studies documenting lessons learned.
- Organize awareness campaigns and public education initiatives to increase community participation.
4. Strengthening Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
- Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including:
- Government agencies (environment, fisheries, tourism, land-use planning).
- NGOs and civil society organizations working on conservation.
- Local communities, indigenous groups, and fisherfolk.
- Private sector entities involved in eco-friendly tourism and sustainable mangrove-based enterprises.
- Facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogues and workshops to align conservation efforts.
- Identify opportunities for public-private partnerships (PPPs) to support sustainable economic development.
5. Supporting Project Implementation & Monitoring
- Assist the Project Manager in developing annual work plans, progress reports, and project documentation.
- Oversee the implementation of community-driven initiatives under the PRSUMF project.
- Support the hiring of experts and consultants for specific technical studies.
- Participate in project steering committee meetings to ensure community perspectives are represented.
- Ensure compliance with donor guidelines and reporting requirements.
Table of Contents
Qualifications & Skills Required
Education
- Master’s degree in environmental management, socio-economics, natural resource management, or a related field is preferred.
- A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field + 2 years of experience will be considered in place of a Master’s degree.
Experience
- No experience required if the candidate has a Master’s degree.
- At least 2 years of professional experience in community engagement and participation if the candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree.
- Experience in mangrove conservation, natural resource management, or community-based environmental projects is highly desirable.
- Prior experience working with UN agencies, NGOs, or government institutions is an asset.
Required Skills & Competencies
- Strong communication & facilitation skills – Ability to engage with local communities and explain technical concepts in simple terms.
- Stakeholder management – Experience working with government agencies, civil society, and grassroots organizations.
- Project management & coordination – Ability to plan, execute, and monitor project activities.
- Gender and social inclusion expertise – Experience integrating women, youth, and marginalized groups into conservation efforts.
- Technical expertise – Knowledge of coastal ecosystem management, climate adaptation, and sustainable livelihoods.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in Dutch is required.
- Working knowledge of English is preferred.
Why Apply for This Job?
This position is an exciting opportunity for professionals passionate about conservation, community engagement, and sustainable development. It offers a chance to:
✅ Work on a high-impact UNDP project that directly benefits coastal communities in Suriname.
✅ Play a leadership role in strengthening local governance for environmental sustainability.
✅ Collaborate with government institutions, international organizations, and grassroots communities.
✅ Gain valuable experience in coastal resilience, climate adaptation, and ecosystem-based solutions.
✅ Contribute to gender-responsive and inclusive environmental policies.
Certainly! Below is a comprehensive, in-depth breakdown of the Technical Officer, Community Co-Management position at UNDP Suriname, covering everything from project background, responsibilities, required skills, and career growth opportunities. This document is designed to give you a complete understanding of the role and its impact.
Technical Officer, Community Co-Management – Full Job Breakdown
📍 Location: Paramaribo, Suriname
🏛 Organization: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
📜 Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA), Level 8
📅 Project Duration: 2024-2027
🌱 Focus Area: Nature, Climate & Energy (Mangrove Conservation & Community Engagement)
1. Background of the Role
Why This Position Exists
Suriname’s coastal areas are home to nearly 90% of the country’s population, making them crucial for economic activities, biodiversity, and climate resilience. The coastline, however, is increasingly threatened by sea-level rise, coastal erosion, extreme weather events, and human activities such as deforestation and land conversion for agriculture or urban expansion.
One of the best natural defenses against these threats is mangrove forests. Suriname is home to about 2% of the world’s total mangrove forests, and these ecosystems play a vital role in:
- Coastal protection: Mangroves act as natural barriers, absorbing wave energy and reducing the impact of storm surges.
- Carbon sequestration: Mangroves store four times more carbon than tropical rainforests, making them essential in combating climate change.
- Fisheries support: Many fish species depend on mangroves as breeding and nursery grounds, ensuring food security for local communities.
- Livelihoods & ecotourism: Sustainable mangrove-based industries, such as honey production, fisheries, and tourism, provide economic opportunities.
The UNDP-EU Partnership for Mangrove Conservation
To address the urgent need for mangrove protection, the UNDP, in collaboration with the European Union (EU), launched the Protection, Restoration, and Sustainable Use of Mangrove Forests (PRSUMF) Project (2024-2027).
This initiative builds upon two previous Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA+) projects:
- Phase 1 (2016-2019) – Focused on research, policy development, and community awareness.
- Phase 2 (2020-2023) – Strengthened conservation strategies and established pilot projects for sustainable livelihoods.
The 2024-2027 phase aims to enhance community co-management of mangroves through:
✅ Stronger governance structures – Improving policies and community-led conservation.
✅ Empowering local communities – Training stakeholders to manage mangrove resources effectively.
✅ Sustainable economic activities – Supporting livelihoods linked to mangrove protection (e.g., eco-tourism, fisheries).
The Technical Officer, Community Co-Management will play a central role in ensuring that communities are active participants in conservation and decision-making.
2. Job Responsibilities
A. Strengthening Community Participation in Mangrove Conservation
- Develop and implement community engagement strategies for sustainable mangrove management.
- Organize awareness campaigns, workshops, and training sessions to educate fisherfolk, indigenous communities, women, and youth on conservation best practices.
- Support the establishment of community-led conservation groups in key coastal areas.
- Facilitate conflict resolution mechanisms between various stakeholders (e.g., fishers, farmers, and conservationists).
- Integrate traditional knowledge from indigenous groups into conservation efforts.
- Ensure that women and youth have leadership roles in co-management initiatives.
B. Strengthening Local Governance & Policy Implementation
- Collaborate with government agencies (e.g., Ministry of Spatial Planning & Environment, Ministry of Agriculture) to enhance community-based decision-making.
- Support the establishment and operation of Multiple Use Management Areas (MUMAs) with strong local governance.
- Assist in developing legal frameworks to formalize community rights in conservation efforts.
- Provide technical input for policies related to mangrove protection, fisheries, and sustainable land use.
C. Supporting Sustainable Livelihood Development
- Identify and promote eco-friendly income-generating activities (e.g., mangrove honey production, sustainable fisheries, eco-tourism ventures).
- Work with local entrepreneurs to develop business models that balance economic development with environmental sustainability.
- Facilitate micro-financing opportunities for community-led conservation initiatives.
D. Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships
- Establish and maintain partnerships with NGOs, academic institutions, government bodies, and private sector players.
- Organize multi-stakeholder dialogues to align conservation efforts.
- Support cross-sectoral collaboration to integrate mangrove conservation into national policies.
E. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting
- Assist the Project Manager in preparing progress reports, impact assessments, and donor updates.
- Conduct field visits to assess community-based projects and provide feedback.
- Document best practices, challenges, and lessons learned for future conservation initiatives.
3. Required Qualifications & Skills
A. Education Requirements
- Master’s degree in environmental management, socio-economics, natural resource management, or related field.
- Bachelor’s degree with 2 years of relevant experience may be considered in place of a Master’s degree.
B. Work Experience
- For Master’s degree holders: No prior experience required.
- For Bachelor’s degree holders: At least 2 years of professional experience in community engagement, environmental conservation, or natural resource management.
C. Technical Skills & Knowledge
- Strong understanding of mangrove ecosystems, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation.
- Experience in community-led governance, participatory decision-making, and stakeholder coordination.
- Knowledge of gender-sensitive approaches to environmental management.
- Ability to facilitate workshops, training programs, and public awareness campaigns.
- Excellent research and reporting skills.
D. Language Requirements
- Fluency in Dutch (Required).
- Working knowledge of English (Preferred).
4. Career Growth & Development Opportunities
This role provides an excellent career path for professionals interested in:
✅ International Development & Environmental Policy – Working with the UNDP offers exposure to global conservation policies and frameworks.
✅ Community-Led Climate Action – Hands-on experience in empowering local communities to protect and manage natural resources.
✅ Sustainable Business & Ecotourism – Opportunities to explore economic models that balance conservation and livelihoods.
✅ Government & Policy Engagement – Gaining experience in working with government agencies to influence environmental policies.
Potential Career Progressions:
- Environmental Project Manager
- Sustainable Development Consultant
- Community-Based Conservation Specialist
- Climate Change Adaptation Expert
- Policy Advisor in Natural Resource Management
5. Why Apply for This Position?
🌿 Make a Real Impact – Directly contribute to protecting Suriname’s coastal ecosystems.
🌎 Work with Global Organizations – Gain valuable experience with UNDP, the EU, and other international partners.
📈 Advance Your Career – Enhance your expertise in environmental conservation, governance, and sustainable livelihoods.
🤝 Engage with Communities – Work closely with local leaders, indigenous groups, and policymakers.
Technical Officer, Community Co-Management – Comprehensive Job Overview & Career Guide
Introduction to the Role
The position of Technical Officer, Community Co-Management is a critical role within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), specifically under the Nature, Climate, and Energy Practice Area. This role focuses on empowering local communities to engage in sustainable mangrove forest management and coastal conservation efforts in Suriname. The selected candidate will work towards promoting community-based conservation and co-management of natural resources, ensuring that local populations, particularly women and youth, play an active role in environmental stewardship.
With climate change causing rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and increased flooding, protecting mangroves is vital for Suriname. This position supports initiatives that enhance community participation, improve decision-making processes, and promote sustainable livelihoods. The Technical Officer, Community Co-Management will contribute to mangrove forest conservation through strategic planning, training programs, governance improvement, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Background and Context
Suriname’s Mangrove Ecosystem & Climate Change Challenges
Suriname’s coastal region is home to 2% of the world’s mangrove forests, covering approximately 90% of the country’s 386-km coastline. These ecosystems act as natural barriers against coastal erosion, storm surges, and rising sea levels, protecting both the environment and local communities.
However, climate change and unsustainable human activities threaten Suriname’s mangrove forests, putting the livelihoods of coastal communities at risk. As part of its commitment to environmental conservation, UNDP, in partnership with the European Union (EU), has launched the Protection, Restoration, and Sustainable Use of Mangrove Forest (PRSUMF) Project (2024-2027). This initiative builds on previous efforts, such as the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA+) programs, which ran from 2016 to 2023.
The Technical Officer, Community Co-Management will play a crucial role in the PRSUMF project by fostering community engagement, strengthening governance structures, and promoting inclusive decision-making in mangrove conservation and management.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
The selected candidate will be responsible for implementing community-driven conservation strategies and supporting co-management frameworks for mangrove forests. The key duties include:
1. Promoting Community Engagement in Mangrove Co-Management
- Facilitate community participation in the conservation and management of mangroves through awareness campaigns and consultation commissions.
- Develop training programs to build the capacity of local stakeholders, including fisherfolk, farmers, women, and youth groups, in sustainable coastal and mangrove management.
- Support participatory decision-making processes by engaging local communities, governmental bodies, and NGOs.
- Implement nature-based solutions to restore mangrove ecosystems and mitigate climate change risks.
2. Strengthening Governance & Policy Frameworks
- Enhance the governance of mangrove ecosystems by supporting the development of legal frameworks and policy strategies.
- Work with local Multiple Use Management Areas (MUMA) organizations to revitalize and strengthen their management capacities.
- Provide technical assistance to government institutions and community groups to ensure effective policy implementation.
- Integrate gender and social inclusion strategies to promote equal participation in mangrove conservation efforts.
3. Capacity Building & Knowledge Management
- Conduct baseline studies and assess current co-management practices in Suriname’s mangrove forests.
- Develop and implement training programs on land use planning, coastal mapping, and environmental conservation techniques.
- Train government officials, researchers, and local communities on tools such as the Management Effectiveness Tracking Tool (METT).
- Monitor and evaluate project impact by preparing reports, case studies, and lessons learned.
4. Supporting Sustainable Livelihoods & Economic Opportunities
- Assist in the development of mangrove-based value chains, including sustainable honey production, eco-tourism, and fisheries.
- Facilitate workshops and training sessions on sustainable income-generating activities for local communities.
- Encourage public-private partnerships that support mangrove conservation and community development.
5. Coordination & Project Management Support
- Work closely with the Project Manager and Technical Officer on Research & Value Chain Development to ensure effective project execution.
- Support project planning, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement processes.
- Prepare progress reports, presentations, and documentation for project steering board meetings.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Educational Requirements
- Master’s degree in Environmental Management, Socio-Economic Studies, or a related field.
- Bachelor’s degree holders in the above fields with two years of relevant experience will also be considered.
Work Experience
- No experience required for candidates with a Master’s degree.
- Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree must have at least two years of professional experience in community engagement and participatory environmental management.
- Experience in mangrove conservation, community-based natural resource management, or environmental governance is a plus.
- Previous work with NGOs, government institutions, donor organizations, or private-sector environmental initiatives is desirable.
Technical Skills & Competencies
- Strong project management skills, including planning, coordination, and execution.
- Experience in community mobilization, capacity building, and training facilitation.
- Knowledge of climate change adaptation, natural resource governance, and coastal zone management.
- Ability to conduct research, data analysis, and environmental assessments.
- Familiarity with legal frameworks related to mangrove conservation and land use planning.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills for stakeholder engagement.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in Dutch (required).
- Working knowledge of English (preferred).
Why Apply for This Role?
1. Meaningful Impact on Climate Action
By joining UNDP Suriname, you will directly contribute to climate resilience efforts, helping communities adapt to environmental changes while protecting mangrove ecosystems.
2. Professional Growth and Development
The role provides an excellent opportunity to:
- Gain hands-on experience in international development projects.
- Build expertise in environmental governance, sustainable development, and policy advocacy.
- Collaborate with global environmental organizations, government agencies, and local communities.
3. Work with a Multidisciplinary Team
You will be part of a diverse, passionate, and mission-driven team, working alongside scientists, policy experts, conservationists, and community leaders.
4. Contribute to UNDP’s Global Mission
This role aligns with UNDP’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 14: Life Below Water
- SDG 15: Life on Land
Application Process
If you are passionate about climate change adaptation, community empowerment, and sustainable natural resource management, this position offers an excellent platform to drive meaningful change.
🔗 Apply Here: Technical Officer, Community Co-Management – UNDP Suriname
📅 Deadline to Apply: March 11, 2025
Final Thoughts
This role is an incredible opportunity for individuals interested in environmental conservation, community development, and sustainable policy-making. As a Technical Officer, Community Co-Management, you will help shape the future of Suriname’s coastal resilience strategy, ensuring that local communities actively participate in mangrove conservation and benefit from sustainable economic opportunities.
