Comprehensive Job Analysis: Coordinateur.trice de Projet – UNDP – Kairouan, Tunisia

April 14, 2025

11 minutes read

“Coordinateur.trice de projet” position with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kairouan, Tunisia, covering:

Context and Strategic Relevance of the Role
Project Overview: “Towards a Sustainable City through Energy Efficiency in Kairouan”
Duties and Responsibilities – In-Depth Analysis
Institutional Setup and Reporting Lines
Required Qualifications and Skills – Detailed Insights
Core and Cross-Cutting Competencies
How this Role Contributes to UNDP’s Strategic Goals
Career Growth and Impact Potential
Language and Technical Skills Required
Equal Opportunity and Workplace Ethics at UNDP
Conclusion and Application Strategy

1. Context and Strategic Relevance of the Role

The UNDP Tunisia Country Office, through its Climate, Environment, Energy and Disaster Risk Reduction Cluster (CERC), plays a pivotal role in addressing the complex, interconnected challenges facing the country. Tunisia is on a critical path of balancing development and sustainability, especially in a context marked by climate vulnerabilities, energy inefficiencies, and socioeconomic disparities.

The Coordinateur.trice de projet position is embedded in a national push for decentralized sustainability solutions, particularly at the municipal level. This role reflects the importance of localized project management to deliver national climate targets and green development goals through concrete interventions in Kairouan—one of Tunisia’s emblematic cities.

This position responds directly to the Strategic Plan 2022–2025 of UNDP, focusing on:

Promoting green development.
Strengthening climate resilience.
Supporting inclusive urban planning and infrastructure.

2. Project Overview: “Towards a Sustainable City through Energy Efficiency in Kairouan”

This project, supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented in partnership with the Tunisian Ministry of Environment via its General Directorate of Sustainable Development (DGDD), addresses the urgent need to transform the energy landscape in urban Tunisia.

Objectives:

Promote energy-efficient buildings and public lighting systems.
Align with Tunisia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (CDN) under the Paris Agreement.
Support the National Sustainable Cities Programme.
Implement the Sustainable Development Strategy for Kairouan.

Target Outcomes:

Enhanced energy efficiency at the municipal level.
Reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Increased awareness and stakeholder engagement in energy-saving behaviors.
Strengthening of local governance capacities to drive sustainable urban transformation.

3. Duties and Responsibilities – In-Depth Analysis

The responsibilities of the project coordinator are structured around four main functions, each encompassing various operational, strategic, and monitoring tasks.

1. Effective Planning and Implementation

Support project planning: Work closely with the Project Manager and Ministry representatives to translate strategic goals into local action plans, ensuring they align with donor requirements and UNDP standards.
Procurement tracking: Monitor procurement workflows to ensure timely delivery of goods/services while following UNDP and GEF guidelines.
Field logistics: Facilitate logistics for field visits, site inspections, and workshops—ensuring resource availability and safety compliance.
Documentation & archiving: Maintain records on project progress and ensure accessibility of information on UNDP platforms.

2. Partnership Building and Stakeholder Engagement

Local partnerships: Establish robust, productive relationships with local authorities, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and private sector entities.
Communication: Ensure stakeholders are informed of project progress and opportunities to participate.
Transparency: Maintain public access to project information in accordance with UNDP’s commitment to transparency.

3. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting

Follow-up on activities: Systematically track the project’s deliverables and deadlines using performance indicators.
Report writing: Prepare monitoring reports, briefings, donor submissions, and annual reviews, adhering to format and content requirements.
Develop M&E tools: Where needed, create or adapt tools for assessing project impact, output quality, and effectiveness.
Impact evaluations: Assist in preparing for and conducting final evaluations, especially focusing on outcomes aligned with the Theory of Change and Results Framework.
Environmental & Social Safeguards (ESS): Ensure that all activities comply with UNDP’s SES policy, including grievance redressal and risk mitigation updates.

4. Knowledge Management and Communication

Information sharing: Systematically communicate lessons learned, successes, and challenges to local and national partners.
Documentation: Generate knowledge products such as case studies, policy briefs, and technical reports.
Best practices dissemination: Promote visibility of the project’s innovations and sustainable outcomes through digital and physical dissemination channels.

4. Institutional Setup and Reporting Lines

The project coordinator will be based in Kairouan, and work under the direct supervision of the Project Manager. Coordination with national stakeholders, especially the Ministry of Environment (DGDD), is crucial.

This role entails:

Functional reporting to the CERC Cluster in the Tunisia Country Office.
Technical collaboration with GEF, municipal representatives, and local stakeholders.
Participation in inter-agency and municipal coordination platforms as needed.

5. Required Qualifications and Skills – Detailed Insights

Education

Required: Master’s degree in Energy, Environmental Sciences, Civil Engineering, Economics, Social Sciences, or related fields.
Alternate Pathway: Bachelor’s degree + 2 additional years of relevant experience.

Experience

Minimum Requirements:
- 2 years (with Master’s) or 4 years (with Bachelor’s) of hands-on experience in:
  - Climate change mitigation.
  - Energy efficiency.
  - Green building projects.
Desirable:
- Experience in the UN system, development agencies, or local government.
- Familiarity with project cycle management (planning, budgeting, M&E).
- Local project coordination experience is a major asset.

Technical Proficiency

Required:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Desirable:
- Experience with database tools or project management software.

6. Core and Cross-Cutting Competencies

UNDP employs a competency framework emphasizing behavioral excellence across all levels:

Core Behaviors

Achieving Results: Focused on delivering quality outcomes.
Thinking Innovatively: Encourages new ideas and iterative problem-solving.
Continual Learning: Embraces feedback and builds on failures.
Agile Adaptability: Flexible and composed amid change and ambiguity.
Determination: Self-motivated and resilient under pressure.
Engagement: Strong interpersonal skills and collaboration.
Diversity & Inclusion: Respectful, bias-aware, and non-discriminatory.

Functional Competencies

Systems Thinking: Ability to identify cause-effect loops and interlinkages.
Project Management: Planning, resource optimization, delivery assurance.
Risk Management: Ability to proactively anticipate, mitigate and manage risks.
Partnership Building: Cultivating networks of support and collaboration.
Decision-Making: Sound, evidence-based judgments.

7. How this Role Contributes to UNDP’s Strategic Goals

This role contributes to multiple UNDP Strategic Plan 2022–2025 outcomes:

Outcome 1: Structural transformation for inclusive growth.
Outcome 2: Building resilience to shocks.
Outcome 3: Nature-positive and climate-resilient economies.

It directly addresses several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
SDG 13: Climate Action.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

8. Career Growth and Impact Potential

Career Trajectory:

This role can pave the way for:

National Project Manager or Project Analyst positions.
Regional technical advisory roles within UNDP or UNEP.
Sustainability consulting roles with international development institutions.

Real-World Impact:

Support the energy transition at the municipal level.
Shape climate resilience in historically significant urban areas.
Facilitate citizen and institutional behavior change toward sustainability.

9. Language and Technical Skills Required

Languages:

Required: Proficiency in Arabic and French.
Desirable: English proficiency is a valuable asset for regional/international reporting and coordination.

Digital Skills:

Excel at organizing digital files and databases.
Ability to create digital reports, visualizations, and presentations.
Comfortable using online collaboration platforms (Teams, SharePoint, UNDP digital tools).

10. Equal Opportunity and Workplace Ethics at UNDP

UNDP is firmly committed to:

Non-discrimination: No bias based on race, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, etc.
Workplace safety: Zero tolerance for sexual harassment, exploitation, or abuse.
Diversity: Inclusive practices in hiring and retention.
Accessibility: Creating environments that enable all staff to thrive.

All selected candidates must undergo background checks and agree to uphold UNDP’s Code of Ethics.

11. Conclusion and Application Strategy

This Coordinateur.trice de projet role is a strategic and impactful opportunity for professionals aiming to work at the intersection of:

Urban sustainability
Climate resilience
Energy efficiency
Development cooperation

Ideal Profile:

Deep understanding of local dynamics in Kairouan or similar settings.
Strong organizational, interpersonal, and analytical skills.
A demonstrated commitment to sustainability and equity.

Application Tips:

Tailor your CV to highlight relevant project coordination experience.
Emphasize results achieved in prior roles (quantitative metrics if possible).
Provide evidence of communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Include any exposure to energy efficiency or climate adaptation programming.

Would you like help crafting a tailored CV and cover letter for this role? Or do you want this full explanation in PDF format for easy reading

“Coordinateur.trice de projet” position with UNDP in Kairouan, Tunisia, based on the job listing you provided.

Detailed Explanation: Coordinateur.trice de Projet – UNDP – Kairouan, Tunisia

1. Introduction and Background

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is at the forefront of the global effort to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and foster sustainable development. In Tunisia, UNDP operates through its Climat, Environnement, Énergie et Réduction des Risques de Catastrophes (CERC) cluster. This cluster spearheads initiatives that promote sustainable transformation toward inclusive economic growth while enhancing resilience and environmental stewardship.

One of the key projects under this cluster is “Towards a Sustainable City through Energy Efficiency in Kairouan”, which is implemented in collaboration with the Ministère de l’Environnement and funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The project’s overarching goal is to promote green buildings and efficient lighting systems as part of Tunisia’s climate goals and urban development strategy.

2. The Role of Coordinateur.trice de Projet

The Project Coordinator (Coordinateur.trice de Projet) plays a pivotal role in managing, monitoring, and coordinating the implementation of this project in Kairouan, Tunisia. Operating under a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9) contract, the position is full-time and expected to last for one year, with a strong possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability.

The selected candidate will work under the direct supervision of the Project Manager and collaborate with key government stakeholders, particularly the Direction Générale de Développement Durable (DGDD) of the Ministry of Environment.

3. Key Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the Project Coordinator fall into four primary categories:

A. Project Implementation and Planning

Support day-to-day operations in Kairouan to ensure that the project remains on schedule and within budget.
Participate in detailed planning, ensuring that activities align with both UNDP and donor procedures.
Monitor procurement processes, ensuring alignment with UNDP’s financial rules and donor expectations.
Logistical support for workshops, field missions, training, and community engagement.
Maintain meticulous documentation and archiving using UNDP’s digital tools and knowledge-sharing platforms.

B. Stakeholder Engagement and Partnership Development

Serve as the primary liaison between UNDP and local/regional authorities, public and private institutions, and civil society organizations in Kairouan.
Coordinate and implement the Stakeholder Engagement Plan to ensure inclusive participation.
Foster transparent communication and information disclosure, especially with vulnerable groups affected by the project.

C. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

Lead the implementation of the Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) plan.
Monitor progress against key performance indicators, the Theory of Change, and the Results Framework.
Support the design and implementation of surveys, evaluations, and field studies.
Provide input for donor reporting, ensuring adherence to quality and compliance standards.
Track and implement the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) in compliance with UNDP’s Social and Environmental Standards (SES).
Maintain a risk registry, updating mitigation plans and responses as necessary.

D. Knowledge Management and Communication

Identify, document, and share lessons learned, best practices, and success stories.
Contribute to communication efforts, both internal and external, about the project’s results.
Produce analytical reports, guidance documents, and learning briefs for dissemination.
Organize learning events, knowledge exchanges, and project visibility initiatives.

4. Qualifications and Eligibility

A. Education

Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in energy, environment, civil engineering, economics, social sciences, or related fields.
Alternatively, a Bachelor’s Degree in the aforementioned areas with two additional years of relevant experience is acceptable.

B. Work Experience

Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience with a Master’s Degree or 4 years with a Bachelor’s Degree.
Proven expertise in climate change mitigation, energy efficiency, or green buildings.
Familiarity with project coordination and results-based management in a development context.

C. Technical Skills

Strong command of MS Office and project management tools.
Knowledge of data management tools and digital platforms for reporting and archiving is an asset.
Experience with environmental safeguards, especially under UN or international donor frameworks, is preferred.

D. Languages

Fluency in Arabic and French is required.
English proficiency is a significant advantage, particularly for donor communication and technical reporting.

5. Core and Cross-Functional Competencies

UNDP Core Competencies (Level 1)

Competency	Description
Results Orientation	Ensures timely and high-quality output delivery while meeting expectations.
Innovative Thinking	Seeks creative approaches and accepts calculated risks.
Continuous Learning	Shares knowledge and learns from mistakes and feedback.
Agility and Adaptability	Adjusts quickly to new challenges and environments.
Determination and Resilience	Maintains motivation and composure under pressure.
Inclusive Engagement	Fosters collaboration and values diverse perspectives.
Diversity and Inclusion	Recognizes and respects individual and cultural differences.

Technical and Functional Competencies

Competency Area	Skills/Expertise
Project Management	Ability to manage resources, budgets, timelines, and deliverables efficiently.
Partnership Development	Skilled at creating strategic alliances with local and national stakeholders.
Risk Management	Proactive in identifying and mitigating social, environmental, and operational risks.
Systemic Thinking	Sees interconnections across project components and anticipates impacts of changes.
Knowledge Management	Ability to transform project data into insights and share learning internally and externally.
Decision-Making	Makes sound, timely decisions within scope of authority and responsibly escalates complex issues.
Environmental Governance	Understanding of sustainability, energy efficiency, and the implementation of environmental safeguards in urban development projects.

6. Institutional Framework and Reporting Lines

The Project Coordinator will be embedded in the UNDP Tunisia Country Office and specifically under the Nature, Climate, and Energy Practice Area. This individual will:

Report directly to the Project Manager of “Towards a Sustainable City through Energy Efficiency in Kairouan”.
Collaborate closely with other UNDP personnel in Tunisia and relevant units at the Regional Bureau for Arab States (RBAS).
Work hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Environment and especially the General Directorate for Sustainable Development.
Liaise with local authorities in Kairouan, NGOs, and technical consultants.

7. Field Engagement and Mobility

The job is based in Kairouan, with regular field visits required across project sites and municipalities. This entails:

Meeting with local government and community stakeholders.
Monitoring infrastructure upgrades or installation of energy-efficient systems.
Organizing or facilitating workshops, town halls, and capacity-building events.
Managing local contractors, evaluators, and implementation partners.

8. Opportunities for Impact

This position provides a meaningful opportunity to:

Contribute to Tunisia’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
Advance the country’s progress towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, and SDG 13: Climate Action.
Improve the lives of vulnerable urban populations through energy-efficient housing and public lighting.
Promote inclusive urban planning that emphasizes environmental justice, gender equity, and resilience to climate risks.

9. Desired Attributes for Candidates

Ideal candidates for this role will possess:

A deep commitment to climate justice, sustainability, and social equity.
Strong interpersonal and diplomatic skills to work across diverse stakeholder groups.
A solution-oriented mindset, with the ability to navigate complex institutional environments.
Ability to translate technical concepts into accessible language for communities and local authorities.
Familiarity with UN programming and operational procedures, especially those related to GEF-funded projects.

10. UNDP Values and Policies

Inclusion and Equal Opportunity

UNDP is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified candidates—regardless of nationality, gender, religion, disability, or sexual orientation—are encouraged to apply. Special attention is given to ensuring gender parity, non-discrimination, and universal accessibility in recruitment and workplace dynamics.

Zero Tolerance for Misconduct

UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy on:

Sexual harassment
Exploitation and abuse
Abuse of authority
Discrimination and retaliation

All personnel are subject to background checks and are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethics.

Data Protection and Confidentiality

Candidates and staff are expected to protect sensitive data, follow UNDP data governance guidelines, and ensure information confidentiality, especially when working with vulnerable populations.

11. Application Process

Deadline:

April 24, 2025 at 05:59 AM (local time)

Required Documents:http://@vacancyspaces.com

Updated CV or Personal History Form (P11)
A cover letter detailing relevant experience
References from previous supervisors or institutions
Optionally, certificates of professional development, if applicable

Applications are to be submitted via the UNDP Careers Portal at:

🔗 UNDP Job Portal Link

12. Conclusion

The Coordinateur.trice de Projet position at UNDP in Kairouan is a strategically important and high-impact role. The project is embedded in the global and national agenda for climate change mitigation, sustainable urban development, and social inclusion. The position offers not only professional growth but also the chance to contribute meaningfully to Tunisia’s transition toward a low-carbon, equitable future.

With a focus on energy efficiency, participatory urban governance, and environmental justice, this role represents a unique convergence of technical expertise and grassroots engagement. It is ideally suited for professionals who thrive at the intersection of project management, climate action, and community development.http://For more information and to apply, please visit the UNDP job posting.

If you’d like help preparing your application, such as crafting a tailored cover letter, refining your CV/P11,

April 14, 2025

11 minutes read