Community Engagement Associate – Empowering Climate Resilience and Water Security in the Marshall Islands

March 25, 2025

11 minutes read

The Community Engagement Associate position with UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) in Majuro, Marshall Islands, is a full-time role under the Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector (ACWA) project. The project focuses on climate change adaptation and water security across the 24 atolls and islands of the Marshall Islands.

Key Aspects of the Job:

1. Purpose & Impact

The project aims to improve water security and strengthen water governance in the Marshall Islands, which faces challenges due to rising sea levels and limited freshwater resources.
Your role will focus on engaging local communities, ensuring they understand and participate in the project.

2. Responsibilities

Community Engagement:
- Build relationships with community leaders (Mayors, Chiefs, MPs, elders).
- Conduct outreach and awareness programs about climate change, water conservation, and disaster risk reduction.
- Ensure communities are involved in decision-making.
Project Implementation & Coordination:
- Support activities like rainwater harvesting installation, groundwater rehabilitation, and community training.
- Work closely with the Project Manager, Area Coordinators, and Site Coordinators to oversee project activities in different islands.
Stakeholder Collaboration:
- Coordinate with national institutions, NGOs, and local organizations to ensure effective communication and execution of project goals.
- Monitor and report project progress to stakeholders.
Grievance Redress & Conflict Resolution:
- Address community concerns, ensuring transparency and fairness in project implementation.

3. Qualifications & Skills Needed

Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree + 4 years of experience OR High school diploma + 7 years of experience in community engagement, environmental management, development work, or teaching.
Skills:
- Strong communication and leadership skills.
- Experience working in remote island communities is a plus.
- Understanding of climate change issues is desirable.
Languages:
- Must be fluent in English and Marshallese.

Why This Job Matters

It’s a hands-on, field-based role that directly impacts communities affected by climate change.
You’ll be working on sustainable water solutions that improve people’s lives.
It’s a great opportunity to gain experience in climate change adaptation, community development, and stakeholder engagement within an international development organization.

Would you like help with your application? 😊

Here’s a comprehensive explanation of the Community Engagement Associate position at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) in Majuro, Marshall Islands, including an in-depth look at the job responsibilities, qualifications, impact, and importance within the broader climate resilience efforts in the region.

Community Engagement Associate – A Comprehensive Overview

The Community Engagement Associate position is a crucial role within the Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector (ACWA) Project, implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands (GoRMI). The primary goal of this role is to enhance community participation and support for the project’s activities, which focus on improving water security, strengthening climate resilience, and enhancing water governance in the Marshall Islands.

The Marshall Islands is particularly vulnerable to climate change and water scarcity due to its geographical location and lack of freshwater sources. This project, co-financed by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Government of the Marshall Islands, seeks to implement solutions that ensure sustainable access to clean water for communities across 24 atolls and islands.

The Community Engagement Associate will work under the direct supervision of the Project Manager and will closely coordinate with Area Coordinators, Site Coordinators, and other project stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation and execution of activities. The incumbent will be responsible for fostering community support, organizing outreach initiatives, and ensuring that community voices are heard and incorporated into the project.

1. Background and Context

Climate Change and Water Security Challenges in the Marshall Islands

The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) is a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) in the Pacific Ocean, comprising 24 inhabited atolls and islands spread across a vast area of over 2 million square kilometers. However, the total landmass is just 182 square kilometers, with the highest elevation averaging 2 meters above sea level.

These geographic conditions make the country highly vulnerable to climate change impacts, particularly rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and saltwater intrusion. Unlike many other nations, the Marshall Islands lacks rivers, streams, or large freshwater lakes, making it entirely dependent on rainwater harvesting and limited groundwater resources. Climate variability has led to prolonged droughts, water shortages, and contamination of freshwater sources, directly impacting the livelihoods, health, and well-being of the population.

The ACWA Project and UNDP’s Role

Recognizing the urgent need for climate adaptation measures, the ACWA project was developed to address the water security crisis in the country. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is responsible for implementing the project in collaboration with the Government of the Marshall Islands, ensuring that the initiatives align with national climate change policies and development goals.

The project focuses on three key areas:

Water Security – Improving household and community rainwater harvesting and storage systems to ensure a more resilient water supply.
Water Resilience – Protecting groundwater sources from contamination caused by seawater intrusion and climate-related disasters.
Water Governance – Strengthening the institutional and community-level capacity to manage climate-related water risks effectively.

To achieve these goals, the project requires strong community participation and engagement, ensuring that residents are informed, involved, and empowered throughout the implementation process. This is where the Community Engagement Associate plays a pivotal role.

2. Key Responsibilities

The Community Engagement Associate will be responsible for various duties aimed at ensuring effective community participation, stakeholder coordination, and project implementation. These responsibilities include:

A. Overseeing Project Activities Implementation

Develop and maintain relationships with communities in the 24 targeted atolls and islands, ensuring they are well-informed and engaged in project activities.
Support technical teams in conducting community-based surveys, assessments, and feasibility studies related to rainwater harvesting installations, groundwater rehabilitation, and climate change adaptation efforts.
Assist in organizing and conducting training sessions for community members on water safety management, disaster risk reduction, and climate change adaptation strategies.
Work closely with Area Coordinators and Site Coordinators to oversee community engagement initiatives and ensure timely progress of project activities.
Prepare detailed reports summarizing community feedback, participation levels, and any challenges encountered during project implementation.

B. Stakeholder Coordination and Relationship Management

Establish strong connections with community leaders, including Mayors, Chiefs, Members of Parliament, and traditional elders, ensuring they are actively involved in decision-making.
Facilitate transparent communication between the project team and local leadership to foster trust and accountability.
Coordinate with government agencies, NGOs, community-based organizations (CBOs), and other stakeholders to enhance project effectiveness.
Ensure alignment between project activities and the broader national climate change adaptation policies of the Marshall Islands.

C. Strengthening Community Engagement and Participation

Conduct community meetings, awareness sessions, and workshops to educate residents on the importance of water conservation, climate resilience, and disaster preparedness.
Gather feedback from communities on their water security challenges, needs, and concerns, ensuring their voices are reflected in project planning.
Promote gender equality by ensuring that women and marginalized groups actively participate in the decision-making process.
Develop educational materials, presentations, and awareness campaigns to increase public knowledge about climate change impacts and water management strategies.

D. Monitoring and Supporting Grievance Redress Mechanisms

Assist in establishing mechanisms for handling community complaints, concerns, and feedback in a structured and transparent manner.
Support Site Coordinators and the Chief Technical Advisor in ensuring all community grievances are addressed fairly and efficiently.
Document and report all community suggestions, concerns, and issues to the Project Manager, providing recommendations for resolution.

E. Reporting and Documentation

Compile and submit biweekly and monthly progress reports on community engagement activities, project challenges, and proposed solutions.
Maintain a database of community interactions, stakeholder meetings, and training sessions conducted under the project.
Contribute to the development of annual reports and impact assessments, showcasing the progress of the ACWA project in improving water security.

3. Required Qualifications and Skills

A. Educational Background

Option 1: A Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Environmental Studies, Development Studies, or a related field, with at least 4 years of relevant experience.
Option 2: A high school diploma, with at least 7 years of experience in community development, stakeholder engagement, teaching, or environmental management.

B. Work Experience

Proven experience in community engagement, development work, environmental management, or facilitation of stakeholder meetings.
Experience in working in remote island communities is highly desirable.
Familiarity with climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and water security issues is a plus.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with diverse community members and stakeholders.

C. Technical Skillshttp://Community Engagement Associate – UNDP (Marshall Islands)

Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Ability to analyze data, compile reports, and document project progress effectively.
Understanding of basic web-based information management systems is an advantage.

D. Language Requirements

Fluency in English and Marshallese (both oral and written) is required.

4. Why This Role Matters

The Community Engagement Associate is at the heart of climate change adaptation efforts in the Marshall Islands. By ensuring active community participation, this role helps strengthen water security, enhance climate resilience, and empower local residents to manage climate-related risks effectively.

This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a meaningful and impactful role, contributing to the sustainable development of small island communities. If you are passionate about climate resilience, community development, and environmental sustainability, this job presents an exciting and rewarding career path.

Would you like assistance in preparing your application, such as writing a compelling cover letter or refining your resume? Let me know how I can help! 😊

Certainly! Below is a more detailed expansion of the role of Community Engagement Associate in the UNDP ACWA Project in Majuro, Marshall Islands, with additional insights into the cultural context, challenges, impact, career growth opportunities, and real-world examples of similar initiatives.

Community Engagement Associate – A Deep Dive into the Role, Impact, and Opportunities

1. Introduction

The Community Engagement Associate is an integral role within the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), particularly in climate adaptation and resilience-building projects like ACWA (Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector). This position focuses on mobilizing communities, facilitating meaningful participation, and ensuring that project goals align with the needs of local residents.

Given the geographical, environmental, and socio-economic challenges of the Marshall Islands, this role requires a deep understanding of community structures, cultural norms, and the specific vulnerabilities that atoll-based communities face.http://@vacancyspaces.com

2. Geographic and Cultural Context: Why This Role Matters in the Marshall Islands

A. The Reality of Climate Vulnerability

The Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) consists of 29 atolls and 5 isolated islands, spread across over 2 million square kilometers of ocean. The country has a total population of about 60,000 people, mostly residing on Majuro (the capital) and Ebeye.

However, the Marshallese people face daily threats from climate change, including:

Sea Level Rise – Rising ocean levels increase flooding risks, threatening homes, freshwater sources, and food security.
Saltwater Intrusion – Contaminates limited groundwater sources, making freshwater scarcity a significant issue.
Droughts and Extreme Weather – Long periods without rainfall create water shortages, especially on outer islands.
Coastal Erosion – Leads to the loss of arable land and displacement of communities.

Because of these challenges, the ACWA Project is a critical intervention that focuses on sustainable water management and climate resilience strategies.

B. The Role of Traditional Leadership in Community Engagement

Marshallese society has a unique governance structure, blending traditional leadership with modern government systems. Traditional leaders, or Iroij (chiefs), Alap (landowners), and Dri Jerbal (workers), play significant roles in community decision-making.

For a project to be successful, gaining the trust and involvement of these leaders is essential. The Community Engagement Associate will need to navigate this complex social structure, ensuring that traditional leaders are active stakeholders in project implementation.

3. Core Responsibilities (Expanded Explanation)

A. Building Trust and Relationships with Communities

One of the most important aspects of this role is establishing genuine trust with community members. This includes:

Conducting outreach visits to remote islands and atolls, explaining the project’s goals and benefits.
Holding participatory workshops where locals can voice their concerns about water security.
Addressing misconceptions and fears regarding new technologies or policies related to water management.

B. Developing Tailored Community Engagement Strategies

Each island community in RMI has different water security challenges. Some rely entirely on rainwater harvesting, while others have access to limited groundwater reserves.

The Community Engagement Associate will work on:

Designing engagement plans tailored to each atoll’s unique water security needs.
Identifying key influencers (e.g., church leaders, teachers, women’s groups) who can help advocate for water conservation.
Encouraging community-driven solutions that incorporate traditional knowledge and modern techniques.

C. Bridging the Gap Between Scientific Research and Local Knowledge

While scientific studies provide data-driven insights into climate resilience, local communities possess generations of indigenous knowledge about water conservation and resource management.

A key task of the Community Engagement Associate is to:

Translate complex scientific information into accessible, community-friendly language.
Ensure that local traditions and cultural practices are respected in project implementation.
Facilitate collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and local residents to create sustainable, community-led solutions.

D. Capacity Building and Training

A sustainable project must leave a lasting impact, ensuring that communities can maintain their water systems independently.

This role will involve:

Training local technicians and volunteers in rainwater harvesting system maintenance.
Educating school children on water conservation practices.
Empowering women’s groups and youth leaders to take active roles in water governance.

E. Monitoring Community Feedback and Project Impact

A crucial part of community engagement is ensuring that people’s voices are heard throughout the project. This means:

Establishing feedback mechanisms where residents can report issues with water infrastructure.
Conducting household surveys to assess how project interventions are improving daily life.
Creating transparent communication channels between the UNDP, the government, and local communities.

4. Challenges and Problem-Solving in the Role

While this position is highly rewarding, it also comes with significant challenges, including:

A. Geographic Isolation and Logistical Barriers

Many outer islands are difficult to access, requiring travel by boat or small aircraft. Ensuring consistent communication and support for these communities is a major challenge.

B. Cultural Sensitivity and Resistance to Change

Some traditional communities may be skeptical of external interventions or hesitant to adopt new technologies. The key to overcoming this is building long-term relationships and demonstrating the tangible benefits of the project.

C. Limited Resources and Funding Constraints

The success of community engagement depends on having adequate resources, including educational materials, travel budgets, and skilled personnel. Advocating for increased funding and technical support will be an essential part of the job.

5. Long-Term Impact of the Role

A successful Community Engagement Associate will leave behind a stronger, more resilient, and self-sufficient community, equipped to:

Manage its own water resources sustainably.
Advocate for policy changes at local and national levels.
Build adaptive strategies to cope with future climate threats.

In the long run, the lessons learned from this project could serve as a model for other Pacific Island nations facing similar water security challenges.

6. Career Growth and Opportunities

This role can serve as a stepping stone to various career paths, including:
✅ Climate Policy Advisor – Working on national or international climate adaptation policies.
✅ Environmental Project Manager – Leading large-scale environmental and water security projects.
✅ UNDP or UN Agency Roles – Advancing into higher positions within the UN or other international organizations.
✅ NGO and Humanitarian Leadership – Directing programs for NGOs working in sustainable development.

For professionals passionate about climate resilience, sustainable development, and humanitarian work, this role provides invaluable field experience and leadership opportunities.

Conclusion: Why This Job Matters

The Community Engagement Associate is not just a job—it is a mission to protect vulnerable island communities from the devastating effects of climate change. By ensuring that every resident has access to clean water and is equipped to face climate challenges, this role directly contributes to saving lives and securing a sustainable future for generations to come.

If you’re interested in applying for this position and need help crafting a strong resume or cover letter, let me know! I’m happy to assist in making your application stand out. 😊

March 25, 2025

11 minutes read