“Empowering Resilience: A Life-Changing Opportunity to Lead Disaster Risk Management in Papua New Guinea with UNDP”

February 28, 2025

13 minutes read

Disaster Risk Management Specialist – UNDP (Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea)

Overview of the Role

This is a full-time position with UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) under the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific. The role is classified as P4 (mid-to-senior level) and is a fixed-term contract for one year, with the possibility of extension.

The position is based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (PNG), a country highly vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions, landslides, and climate-related hazards. The primary objective of this role is to strengthen disaster risk management (DRM) in PNG by improving policies, coordinating efforts across multiple government agencies, and ensuring better disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.

Key Responsibilities

The Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Specialist will lead UNDP’s Disaster Risk Management Programme in PNG, working closely with government agencies, UN organizations, and development partners to reduce the impact of disasters and build national resilience.

1. Strategic Planning & Policy Development

Lead efforts to strengthen DRM governance, including reviewing and updating the National Disaster Management Act (1984) to align with international best practices.
Work with government agencies such as the National Disaster Centre, National Weather Service, Climate Change Development Authority, and others to improve national disaster risk reduction policies.
Ensure that disaster risk reduction (DRR) strategies are gender-inclusive and socially equitable, following the “Leave No One Behind” principle.
Develop mechanisms for disaster financing, including budget allocations, international funds (e.g., Loss and Damage Fund), and insurance solutions.

2. Disaster Preparedness & Response Coordination

Support the establishment of early warning systems and improve access to hazard data through an online public information platform.
Assist in building national and sub-national disaster response capacities, activating local disaster committees, and ensuring effective information management for disaster planning.
Lead early recovery coordination efforts following disasters by working with humanitarian response teams and launching post-disaster needs assessments.

3. Capacity Building & Training

Design and implement training programs for national and local authorities to enhance their ability to manage disasters.
Provide technical support to improve data-driven decision-making for disaster risk management.
Strengthen community engagement by ensuring that at-risk groups, such as women, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities, actively participate in disaster preparedness and response.

4. Project Management & Resource Mobilization

Oversee project implementation, ensuring activities are executed on time and within budget.
Develop new project proposals and explore funding opportunities with international donors.
Prepare reports for donors and UNDP leadership on DRM progress and outcomes.

5. Partnership Development & Advocacy

Build strong partnerships with government agencies, UN organizations, NGOs, and international donors.
Represent UNDP in workshops, conferences, and high-level meetings related to disaster risk management.
Lead advocacy efforts to integrate DRM into national development planning.

Qualifications & Experience Required

Education:

Master’s Degree in Disaster Risk Management, Environment, Engineering, Social Sciences, or a related field.
Candidates with a Bachelor’s Degree can also apply but must have two additional years of relevant experience.

Work Experience:wordpress-6.7.1

At least 7 years (with a Master’s) or 9 years (with a Bachelor’s) of professional experience in disaster risk management, disaster risk reduction, or climate change adaptation.
Experience in policy advisory roles, particularly in developing DRM policies and risk governance frameworks.
Familiarity with UNDP’s policies, procedures, and programming models is a strong advantage.
Previous experience in Papua New Guinea, the Pacific region, or Small Island Developing States is preferred.
Experience in resource mobilization, donor engagement, and program management is an asset.

Skills & Competencies:

Strong leadership and coordination skills, especially in working with governments and international organizations.
Knowledge of disaster risk financing mechanisms and experience in designing national DRM strategies.
Ability to analyze disaster risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Experience in data management systems for disaster risk reduction is preferred.
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English.

Why This Job Matters

Papua New Guinea is highly vulnerable to natural disasters due to its geography, climate, and economic conditions. Weak institutional capacity and inadequate disaster preparedness make communities highly exposed to risks. This role is critical in helping PNG improve its disaster resilience, reduce the loss of life and infrastructure, and build a safer and more sustainable future.

The DRM Specialist will have a direct impact on disaster preparedness and response efforts, ensuring that national policies, governance structures, and financing mechanisms are in place to protect communities from natural disasters.

Salary & Benefits

As a P4-level position, the salary will be based on UN salary scales for international professionals.
Additional benefits may include housing, relocation support, education grants, health insurance, and pension contributions.
The position requires mobility, meaning international travel and field visits within Papua New Guinea may be required.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted before March 4, 2025 (06:59 AM).
Interested candidates can apply online through UNDP’s job portal.
The selection process includes rigorous background checks, reference verification, and interviews.

Final Thoughts

This is a high-impact leadership role that requires expertise in disaster risk management, policy development, capacity building, and inter-agency coordination. The ideal candidate will be someone with strong technical knowledge, strategic vision, and the ability to work with governments, international organizations, and communities to reduce disaster risks and strengthen resilience in Papua New Guinea.

Disaster Risk Management Specialist – UNDP (Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea)

Position Overview

The Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Specialist plays a vital role in enhancing disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and recovery in Papua New Guinea (PNG). This role is based in Port Moresby, the country’s capital, and is part of UNDP’s broader mission to build resilience against natural hazards. Given PNG’s geographical vulnerability to earthquakes, floods, landslides, and climate-related disasters, this position is critical in ensuring effective disaster risk governance.

The primary objective of the role is to strengthen national policies, strategies, and institutional frameworks for disaster risk reduction (DRR), response, and recovery. The DRM Specialist will provide technical assistance to the National Disaster Centre (NDC) and other government agencies to improve their capacity in disaster risk governance, emergency response coordination, and resilience-building initiatives.

The position is classified as P4 under the UN job grading system, indicating a mid-to-senior level leadership role. This is a fixed-term appointment for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability.

Background & Context of Disaster Risk Management in PNG

Papua New Guinea is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the Pacific, with frequent natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis, tropical cyclones, floods, and volcanic eruptions. The country is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly susceptible to seismic activities. Additionally, climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, threatening lives, infrastructure, and livelihoods.

Key Challenges in PNG’s Disaster Management

Weak Institutional Frameworks: The National Disaster Management Act (1984) is outdated and needs to be revised to align with global best practices, such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).
Limited Early Warning Systems: The country lacks robust disaster early warning systems that can provide timely alerts to at-risk populations.
Inadequate Coordination Mechanisms: There are gaps in inter-agency coordination, leading to delays in disaster response and inefficient resource allocation.
Financial Constraints: The absence of dedicated disaster financing mechanisms hinders the country’s ability to fund risk reduction and recovery programs.
Vulnerable Populations: Many communities, especially those in remote areas, have limited access to disaster preparedness resources and emergency assistance.

The DRM Specialist will be instrumental in addressing these challenges by strengthening policy frameworks, building institutional capacity, and mobilizing resources to enhance disaster resilience in PNG.

Key Responsibilities & Deliverables

1. Policy Development & Governance Strengthening

Lead the review and revision of the National Disaster Management Act (1984), ensuring it aligns with international best practices such as the Sendai Framework and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
Develop a national disaster risk governance strategy, ensuring that disaster risk reduction (DRR) is integrated into development planning across all sectors.
Support the development of provincial and local DRM policies that reflect regional risks and vulnerabilities.
Promote gender-sensitive and socially inclusive approaches in all DRM policies, ensuring that marginalized groups, including women, persons with disabilities, and Indigenous communities, are actively included in decision-making.
Strengthen climate change adaptation strategies by integrating DRM into national climate policies.

2. Disaster Preparedness & Response Coordination

Improve emergency response mechanisms by supporting the National Disaster Centre (NDC) and other agencies in developing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Strengthen early warning systems (EWS) for key hazards, including floods, landslides, and tropical cyclones.
Establish a National Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to enhance disaster response coordination and information-sharing.
Work with local authorities to activate disaster response committees and train first responders.
Develop a national database for disaster risk information, ensuring real-time access to hazard data and response planning tools.
Support logistics planning to ensure efficient deployment of emergency relief supplies.

3. Capacity Building & Institutional Strengthening

Conduct training programs for national and provincial government officials on disaster risk management, early warning systems, and emergency response.
Strengthen community-based disaster preparedness programs, ensuring that at-risk populations are equipped with the knowledge and resources needed to respond effectively to disasters.
Support academic and research institutions in developing DRM-related curricula and knowledge-sharing platforms.
Enhance inter-agency coordination mechanisms, ensuring better collaboration among government agencies, UN organizations, NGOs, and private sector partners.

4. Disaster Risk Financing & Resource Mobilization

Develop a national disaster risk financing strategy, including funding mechanisms for risk reduction, emergency response, and recovery.
Explore opportunities for climate resilience financing, such as Green Climate Fund (GCF) grants, insurance schemes, and contingency funds.
Support the government in accessing international disaster relief funding, including UN emergency response mechanisms and donor contributions.
Ensure effective financial tracking and reporting for all DRM initiatives.

5. Post-Disaster Recovery & Resilience Building

Lead Post-Disaster Needs Assessments (PDNAs) following major disasters.
Develop and implement early recovery programs, ensuring a smooth transition from emergency relief to long-term reconstruction.
Promote resilient infrastructure development, including the adoption of disaster-resistant building codes.
Advocate for nature-based solutions, such as mangrove restoration and reforestation, to reduce climate-related disaster risks.

6. Partnership Development & Advocacy

Strengthen partnerships with government agencies, UN organizations, NGOs, and private sector actors to promote a unified approach to DRM.
Represent UNDP at high-level forums, including international conferences, regional DRM meetings, and inter-agency coordination groups.
Lead public awareness campaigns on disaster risk reduction, targeting schools, community groups, and local businesses.

Required Qualifications & Experience

Education

Master’s Degree in Disaster Risk Management, Environmental Science, Civil Engineering, Social Sciences, or a related field.
A Bachelor’s Degree is accepted if the candidate has two additional years of relevant work experience.

Work Experiencehttp://Disaster Risk Management Specialist – UNDP Papua New Guinea

Minimum 7 years (with a Master’s) or 9 years (with a Bachelor’s) of relevant experience in disaster risk management, disaster response, or climate adaptation.
Demonstrated experience in developing DRM policies, conducting risk assessments, and managing emergency response programs.
Strong background in policy advisory roles for government agencies or international organizations.
Experience working in developing countries, especially in the Pacific region or Small Island Developing States (SIDS), is an advantage.
Familiarity with UNDP programming, funding mechanisms, and donor coordination is a plus.

Key Skills

Strategic leadership and policy advisory skills.
Expertise in disaster risk financing and resource mobilization.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills in disaster risk reduction.
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
Proficiency in data-driven decision-making and GIS-based hazard mapping.

Compensation & Benefits@vacancyspaces.com

The salary is based on the UN P4 pay scale, which varies depending on experience and location.
Additional benefits include housing allowance, education grants, relocation assistance, medical insurance, and retirement contributions.
Field travel is required to remote regions for project implementation and disaster response activities.

How to Apply

Application Deadline: March 4, 2025 (06:59 AM UTC)
Submit your application via UNDP’s career portal.
The selection process includes background checks, competency-based interviews, and reference verification.

Would you like assistance in crafting a tailored resume and cover letter for this position? Let me know how I can support your application!

Disaster Risk Management Specialist – UNDP Papua New Guinea (Comprehensive Job Overview)

Introduction

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is actively seeking a Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Specialist to play a crucial role in strengthening disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and recovery strategies in Papua New Guinea (PNG). This full-time P4-grade position, based in Port Moresby, requires a highly qualified professional with substantial experience in disaster risk management (DRM), climate change adaptation, and disaster risk reduction (DRR). The position falls under the Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific, emphasizing UNDP’s commitment to enhancing resilience and disaster preparedness in one of the most hazard-prone nations in the Pacific region.

This role requires a proactive approach in policy formulation, strategy development, capacity building, and coordination among key stakeholders, including government agencies, UN organizations, civil society organizations (CSOs), and international development partners. The selected candidate will design, implement, and oversee initiatives aimed at improving PNG’s national and sub-national disaster risk management frameworks.

Background on Papua New Guinea’s Disaster Risk Profile

Papua New Guinea is highly vulnerable to multiple natural hazards, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tropical cyclones, heavy rainfall leading to landslides and floods, prolonged droughts, and health-related crises such as pandemics. The geographical and socio-economic challenges of PNG exacerbate its risk exposure, requiring a comprehensive and well-coordinated disaster risk management strategy.

While national and sub-national institutions exist to address disaster management, there are gaps in governance, coordination, and policy implementation. UNDP aims to strengthen PNG’s disaster resilience and response mechanisms by improving legislative frameworks, enhancing coordination at various government levels, developing early warning systems, integrating disaster risk reduction into development planning, and mobilizing financial resources for disaster recovery.

Position Purpose

The Disaster Risk Management Specialist will lead and implement the UNDP Papua New Guinea Disaster Risk Management Programme, ensuring strategic alignment with national priorities and global best practices. The role involves:

Providing technical guidance on disaster risk reduction, risk governance, preparedness, and early recovery.
Strengthening institutional capacity at national and sub-national levels for effective disaster response.
Improving policy and legal frameworks to align with global standards, such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR).
Enhancing data-driven decision-making through hazard information systems.
Facilitating access to disaster financing mechanisms and innovative funding solutions.
Building partnerships with key stakeholders, including government bodies, private sector players, civil society organizations, and international donors.

The selected candidate will play a leadership role in developing strategies, managing teams, mobilizing resources, and engaging with high-level stakeholders to ensure effective DRM implementation.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

1. Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance and Policy Frameworks

Review and update national disaster risk management policies, strategies, and legal frameworks, incorporating gender equality, disability inclusion, and social equity (GEDSI) principles.
Provide technical assistance in legislative amendments, ensuring policies clearly define roles, responsibilities, and coordination mechanisms for disaster risk management.
Align PNG’s DRM framework with global best practices and integrate disaster risk considerations into national and provincial development planning.
Strengthen inter-agency coordination among PNG’s disaster management entities, including:
- National Disaster Centre (NDC)
- Department of Geohazards Management
- National Weather Service
- Climate Change Development Authority (CCDA)
- Department of National Planning and Monitoring

2. Hazard Information Management and Decision Support Systems

Support the establishment of a national disaster risk information system, making hazard and vulnerability data accessible to policymakers, responders, and the public.
Conduct a stocktake of hazard mapping systems, ensuring real-time information is available for early warning systems and emergency response.
Promote data-driven decision-making through the integration of geospatial analysis, remote sensing, and risk modeling technologies.

3. Institutional Capacity Building and Training

Develop and deliver training programs for national and sub-national disaster management institutions to improve preparedness, response, and recovery capabilities.
Support the activation and strengthening of local disaster committees at provincial and district levels, ensuring community participation.
Provide technical assistance to emergency response agencies, improving coordination and operational effectiveness.
Promote inclusion and participation of marginalized groups (e.g., women, persons with disabilities, and indigenous communities) in disaster risk management initiatives.

4. Disaster Financing and Resource Mobilization

Assist the Government of PNG in developing financial mechanisms for disaster risk reduction, emergency response, and post-disaster recovery.
Explore and implement innovative financing solutions, such as:
- Disaster insurance mechanisms
- Public-private partnerships
- International climate and disaster resilience funds (e.g., Loss and Damage Fund).
Support the government in securing international funding for disaster risk management projects.

5. Early Recovery and Humanitarian Coordination

Act as the technical lead of the Early Recovery Sector, ensuring effective coordination between humanitarian and development actors.
Collaborate with UNDP’s Crisis Bureau and other UN agencies to design and implement early recovery initiatives following disasters.
Lead Post-Disaster Needs Assessments (PDNA) to guide recovery planning and reconstruction efforts.
Develop an early recovery framework that ensures timely restoration of essential services, infrastructure, and livelihoods.

Qualifications and Requirements

Education

Master’s degree in Disaster Risk Management, Environmental Science, Engineering, Social Sciences, or a related field (required).
Bachelor’s degree in the same fields, with two additional years of relevant experience, will be considered in lieu of a Master’s degree.

Experience

Minimum 7 years (Master’s) or 9 years (Bachelor’s) of professional experience in disaster risk management, climate change adaptation, or related areas.
Strong experience in policy development, program management, and capacity-building initiatives.
Previous work with UNDP or other international development agencies is an advantage.
Experience in Papua New Guinea, the Pacific region, or Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is desirable.
Demonstrated expertise in hazard information management, early warning systems, and post-disaster recovery planning.
Proven ability to lead multi-stakeholder coordination efforts, including government agencies, UN bodies, NGOs, and private sector partners.

Skills and Competencies

Strong leadership and management capabilities.
Excellent strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work in complex and politically sensitive environments.
Expertise in results-based management and project monitoring.
High proficiency in data-driven decision-making and disaster risk assessment tools.
Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required.

Application Process & Additional Information

Application Deadline: March 4, 2025, 06:59 AM
Job Schedule: Full-time, Fixed-Term (1 year with possibility for extension)
Location: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Contract Type: Fixed Term – P4 Grade
Mobility Requirement: Yes

Conclusion

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Disaster Risk Management professional to contribute to Papua New Guinea’s disaster resilience strategy. The role involves a diverse range of responsibilities, from policy advisory and governance support to technical implementation and resource mobilization.

If you are passionate about building disaster-resilient communities, strengthening governance systems, and leading high-impact initiatives, this role offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with UNDP’s global network and expertise.

For more details and to apply, visit:
🔗 Job Posting Link

February 28, 2025

13 minutes read