“Gerente de Proyecto” (Project Manager) at UNDP Costa Rica.

February 11, 2025

9 minutes read

This job is for a Project Manager (Gerente de Proyecto) based in Costa Rica, working under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The position is full-time, requires no mobility, and is classified under a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9).

Key Aspects of the Job

The role focuses on managing a project related to biodiversity and environmental policy in Costa Rica. The project is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and aims to update the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and prepare the country’s 7th national biodiversity report.

Responsibilitieshttps://estm.fa.em2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/job/23616

The Project Manager will be responsible for:
✅ Managing the project to ensure timely completion according to UNDP policies.
✅ Aligning biodiversity policies with the global Kunming-Montreal framework.
✅ Strengthening environmental governance and public policies.
✅ Building partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, private sector, and other stakeholders.
✅ Supervising project activities such as financial management, reporting, and team coordination.
✅ Monitoring and evaluating the project’s progress to ensure high-quality results.
✅ Facilitating stakeholder participation to create inclusive biodiversity policies.
✅ Supporting advocacy efforts to improve environmental laws and regulations in Costa Rica.

Qualifications Required

📌 Education:

Master’s degree in Law (or related field) with 2 years of experience OR
Bachelor’s degree in Law (or related field) with 4 years of experience

📌 Experience:

Must have worked on policy and legal framework analysis in biodiversity-related projects.
Experience in public policy, biodiversity governance, and sustainable development is preferred.
Previous work with UN organizations, NGOs, or international cooperation agencies is an advantage.
Experience with human rights, gender equality, and environmental policy integration is desirable.

📌 Skills:@vacancyspaces.com
✔ Strong leadership and project management skills.
✔ Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management.
✔ Experience in high-pressure environments and decision-making.
✔ Familiarity with Costa Rica’s environmental legal framework.

📌 Languages:
✅ Fluent Spanish (required)
✅ Intermediate English (required)

Work Conditions & Contract Details

📍 Location: Costa Rica (must be a Costa Rican citizen or have a work permit).
📅 Contract Duration: 1 year (renewable).
💼 Employment Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9).

Certainly! Below is a detailed explanation of the Gerente de Proyecto position at UNDP Costa Rica, including the job responsibilities, required qualifications, skills, work conditions, and organizational impact.

Project Manager (Gerente de Proyecto) – UNDP Costa Rica

1. Introduction to UNDP and the Role

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that operates in over 170 countries and territories with the goal of eradicating poverty, reducing inequality, and promoting sustainable development. UNDP works closely with governments, civil society organizations, the private sector, and international donors to develop and implement strategies that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This particular position is based in Costa Rica under the Nature, Climate, and Energy Practice Area, focusing on biodiversity conservation and sustainable environmental policies. The role is essential in ensuring that Costa Rica meets its commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CDB) by developing updated biodiversity strategies and national reports.

As Project Manager (Gerente de Proyecto), you will lead and coordinate the implementation of a project funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) aimed at updating Costa Rica’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and preparing the Seventh National Biodiversity Report. The role involves policy development, stakeholder coordination, financial oversight, and technical support to ensure that biodiversity conservation aligns with global and national priorities.

2. Key Responsibilities

The Project Manager will have a variety of strategic, technical, administrative, and managerial responsibilities, including:

A. Project Planning and Implementation

Lead the planning, execution, and monitoring of the project to ensure compliance with UNDP policies, national regulations, and donor requirements.
Ensure that the project timeline, objectives, and deliverables are met efficiently.
Develop and implement strategies for data collection, performance tracking, and reporting on biodiversity initiatives.
Integrate gender equality, human rights, and inclusion principles into all aspects of project implementation.
Coordinate with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to ensure that biodiversity policies are up to date.

B. Policy and Legal Framework Development

Conduct an in-depth analysis of Costa Rica’s National Biodiversity Strategy to align it with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Work with policymakers to update and improve biodiversity policies that promote sustainable environmental governance.
Lead the revision and proposal of new legal frameworks to strengthen biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.
Ensure that public policies address emerging environmental risks such as deforestation, habitat loss, and climate change.

C. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Building

Establish strong partnerships with government institutions, private sector actors, civil society organizations, and international donors.
Organize multistakeholder dialogues to ensure an inclusive and participatory decision-making process.
Represent UNDP in national and international biodiversity forums, conferences, and meetings.
Work closely with environmental agencies like the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), and the National Biodiversity Commission (CONAGEBIO).
Facilitate knowledge-sharing and capacity-building initiatives for government officials, NGOs, and private sector leaders.

D. Project Financial and Administrative Oversight

Manage the project budget and ensure the efficient use of financial resources.
Work with UNDP’s finance and administrative teams to ensure proper fund allocation, procurement, and resource management.
Ensure that all project activities comply with UNDP’s operational, financial, and procurement policies.
Prepare financial and technical reports for donors, government institutions, and UNDP leadership.

E. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

Develop impact assessment methodologies to track the progress of biodiversity policies.
Conduct field visits to monitor project activities and evaluate their effectiveness.
Identify potential risks and challenges that may impact the project and propose corrective measures.
Document and disseminate best practices, lessons learned, and success stories related to biodiversity governance.
Coordinate with UNDP’s communications team to raise awareness about the project’s achievements.

F. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing

Organize workshops, training programs, and technical assistance sessions for stakeholders.
Support policy dialogues, roundtable discussions, and public consultations to promote awareness about biodiversity conservation.
Ensure that scientific knowledge and traditional ecological knowledge are integrated into national biodiversity policies.

3. Required Qualifications and Experience

A. Academic Requirements

Master’s Degree in Law, Environmental Policy, Public Administration, or a related field with at least 2 years of relevant experience, OR
Bachelor’s Degree in Law, Environmental Policy, Public Administration, or a related field with at least 4 years of relevant experience.

B. Work Experience

Experience in policy analysis, biodiversity conservation, and environmental governance.
Strong background in public policy development and legal frameworks related to biodiversity.
Experience in managing international projects, preferably funded by UNDP, GEF, or other international donors.
Previous work with government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations is highly desirable.
Familiarity with Costa Rica’s legal framework on biodiversity and environmental policies.

C. Technical and Soft Skills

Strong project management and leadership skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
Ability to negotiate and engage multiple stakeholders in decision-making.
Capacity to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

D. Language Requirements

Fluency in Spanish (required).
Intermediate English proficiency (required).

4. Work Conditions and Contract Details

A. Location and Mobility

📍 The position is based in Costa Rica, and the selected candidate must reside in the country and have either Costa Rican nationality or a valid work permit.

B. Contract Type

💼 National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9) – The contract is for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

C. Salary and Benefits

💰 The salary will be aligned with UNDP’s salary scale for national personnel, including social security benefits and professional development opportunities.

5. Impact and Importance of This Role

This role is critical for achieving Costa Rica’s biodiversity conservation goals. By leading the update of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), the Project Manager will:
✔ Ensure Costa Rica complies with international biodiversity commitments.
✔ Strengthen environmental governance and public policies.
✔ Facilitate multi-stakeholder cooperation for sustainable development.
✔ Promote climate resilience and biodiversity conservation.

6. Conclusion

The Gerente de Proyecto position at UNDP Costa Rica is a high-impact leadership role focused on policy development, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable environmental governance. This is an excellent opportunity for professionals passionate about biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable development to make a significant impact at the national and international

Gerente de Proyecto – UNDP Costa Rica (Full In-Depth Guide)

1. Introduction: Understanding the Role and its Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a leading global development network that works towards sustainable solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges, including poverty reduction, climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and good governance. UNDP operates in more than 170 countries and territories, supporting governments in implementing policies that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This particular Gerente de Proyecto role in Costa Rica is centered on environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation. It involves developing and implementing policies, managing financial and human resources, and ensuring compliance with international environmental agreements.

The primary project associated with this position is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), an organization that provides financial resources to support countries in addressing environmental challenges. Costa Rica, as a biodiversity-rich country, is committed to enhancing its national policies on conservation through the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

The Gerente de Proyecto will oversee the update of Costa Rica’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and the preparation of the Seventh National Biodiversity Report, ensuring that these frameworks are aligned with international commitments and national priorities.

2. Core Responsibilities of the Position

The Project Manager (Gerente de Proyecto) will lead the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of biodiversity initiatives. Their responsibilities include:

A. Project Design, Planning, and Implementation

Develop a detailed work plan outlining key milestones, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
Ensure that the project aligns with Costa Rica’s National Development Plan and UNDP’s Sustainable Development Framework.
Apply adaptive management techniques to address emerging environmental threats.
Use data-driven decision-making to improve biodiversity policies.
Monitor progress, ensuring that the project is on track to meet its objectives.

B. Policy Development and Legal Framework Strengthening

Conduct comprehensive policy reviews to ensure that biodiversity laws are effective.
Strengthen regulatory mechanisms for protected areas, ecosystem management, and conservation financing.
Align Costa Rica’s biodiversity strategies with international frameworks like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Propose legal reforms to enhance environmental protection and climate resilience.
Collaborate with national legislative bodies to incorporate biodiversity objectives into broader governance agendas.

C. Stakeholder Engagement and Multi-Sectoral Collaboration

Lead multi-sectoral dialogues involving government agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, indigenous communities, and private sector actors.
Develop a participatory approach to ensure that all voices—particularly those of vulnerable and marginalized communities—are considered in biodiversity policies.
Strengthen partnerships with international organizations, donors, and research institutions.
Advocate for innovative financial mechanisms such as payment for ecosystem services (PES).
Facilitate knowledge exchange programs with other biodiversity-rich countries.

D. Financial Management and Resource Mobilization

Develop and oversee budget execution plans, ensuring financial accountability.
Seek additional funding through grants, public-private partnerships, and international donors.
Monitor financial disbursements to ensure compliance with UNDP’s financial regulations.
Identify opportunities for leveraging private sector investments in conservation.
Work with UNDP finance teams to conduct cost-effectiveness analyses.

E. Project Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL)

Establish robust monitoring frameworks to assess the impact of biodiversity policies.
Develop key performance indicators (KPIs) for biodiversity conservation.
Conduct site visits and field assessments to validate project outcomes.
Publish periodic progress reports for government agencies, international donors, and UNDP leadership.
Integrate lessons learned into future biodiversity programs.

F. Capacity Development and Public Awareness

Organize training workshops and technical assistance programs for policymakers.
Enhance the technical capacity of local governments, NGOs, and academic institutions.
Develop educational campaigns to raise public awareness about biodiversity conservation.
Use digital platforms, media, and community engagement initiatives to promote biodiversity-friendly behaviors.
Support indigenous and local knowledge integration into biodiversity management strategies.

3. Required Qualifications and Competencies

A. Academic Requirements

Master’s Degree in Environmental Policy, Public Administration, Law, Sustainable Development, or related fields, with at least 2 years of relevant experience, OR
Bachelor’s Degree in the same fields with at least 4 years of relevant experience.

B. Professional Experience

Proven experience in policy development, project management, and stakeholder engagement.
Experience working on biodiversity conservation projects at the national or international level.
Prior involvement in UNDP, GEF, or other international development projects is a plus.
Familiarity with Costa Rica’s biodiversity and environmental governance frameworks.

C. Technical and Soft Skills

Project Management Expertise – Ability to oversee complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
Legal and Policy Knowledge – Strong understanding of biodiversity regulations and governance frameworks.
Stakeholder Coordination – Capacity to engage diverse actors in biodiversity planning.
Financial Management Skills – Ability to manage project budgets and mobilize resources.
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills – Proficiency in policy analysis and risk mitigation.
Communication and Leadership – Ability to present findings to high-level policymakers and the public.

D. Language Requirements

Fluent in Spanish (mandatory).
Intermediate English proficiency (required for international reporting and communications).

4. Work Conditions and Organizational Structure

A. Contract Type and Duration

Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9).
Duration: Initial 12-month contract, renewable based on performance and funding availability.

B. Work Location

Based in Costa Rica, with field visits required.

C. Salary and Benefits

Competitive salary aligned with UNDP’s compensation structure.
Social security and professional development opportunities.

5. Challenges and Strategic Importance

This role presents several challenges, including:

Balancing economic development with biodiversity conservation.
Addressing climate-related biodiversity threats such as deforestation and species loss.
Coordinating with multiple stakeholders with diverse interests.
Ensuring long-term sustainability of biodiversity policies beyond project completion.

However, the Gerente de Proyecto has the strategic opportunity to:
✔ Strengthen Costa Rica’s environmental governance and legal frameworks.
✔ Promote nature-based solutions to climate challenges.
✔ Position Costa Rica as a global leader in biodiversity conservation.

6. Conclusion

The Gerente de Proyecto role at UNDP Costa Rica is a high-impact leadership position that directly contributes to national and global biodiversity goals. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape Costa Rica’s environmental policies and drive sustainable development.

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February 11, 2025

9 minutes read