Job Description: Technical Officer, Research and Value Chain Development – UNDP Suriname

The Technical Officer, Research and Value Chain Development position with UNDP in Suriname is a key role in the Protection, Restoration, and Sustainable Use of Mangrove Forests (PRSUMF) project. Here’s a more detailed explanation of the role and its responsibilities:

Background and Context:http://UNDP Job Listing

• Mangroves’ Importance: Suriname has one of the largest mangrove ecosystems in the world, covering 90% of its coastline. These forests provide a wide range of benefits: they protect coastal areas from erosion, stabilize the land, and help mitigate the effects of climate change by providing a natural barrier against rising sea levels and storm surges.
• UNDP’s Role: UNDP has been working with the Surinamese government to conserve mangrove forests since 2016, and this current project (2024-2027) continues to build on those efforts. The project focuses on ensuring the long-term sustainability of mangrove ecosystems while improving local community livelihoods through sustainable economic activities.

Main Objectives of the PRSUMF Project:wordpress-6.7.1

1. Resilience of Coastal Communities: Build the resilience of communities living in coastal areas by promoting sustainable use and conservation of mangroves.
2. Integrated Coastal Zone Management: Enhance governance, legal frameworks, and strategic plans to manage coastal zones and mangrove ecosystems.
3. Community Co-Management: Empower local communities to participate in the management and decision-making processes related to mangrove conservation.
4. Sustainable Income Generation: Encourage sustainable economic activities like ecotourism, honey production, and sustainable fisheries, with a particular focus on benefiting women and youth.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Promote Sustainable Value Chains:
   • Facilitate discussions with local communities about how to use mangroves sustainably.
   • Develop guidelines for various value chains that depend on mangrove resources (e.g., low-impact ecotourism, honey production, sustainable fisheries).
   • Organize training programs to build skills for small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) involved in these value chains.
   • Design criteria for grants and help MSMEs access funding.
   • Ensure that both men and women equally benefit from the project, promoting gender equality.
2. Research and Monitoring:
   • Conduct research on the development of sustainable value chains and monitor the progress of the project.
   • Prepare reports on lessons learned, best practices, and the impact of project activities on value chains.
3. Support Project Management:
   • Work closely with the Project Manager to prepare work plans, progress reports, and other project documentation.
   • Coordinate with other project officers to maximize synergies and ensure that the project’s objectives are achieved efficiently.
4. Strengthen Partnerships:
   • Develop relationships with local stakeholders, including government departments, NGOs, and community leaders, to ensure successful project implementation.
   • Collaborate with research institutions, private sector partners, and local communities to share knowledge and build partnerships for sustainable mangrove management.
5. Knowledge Exchange and Capacity Building:
   • Foster collaboration between academia, local communities, and entrepreneurs to exchange knowledge and promote innovation in mangrove management and value chain development.

Skills and Competencies Required:

1. Academic Qualifications:
   • A Master’s degree in environmental management, socio-economic studies, or a related field. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with two years of relevant experience.
2. Experience:
   • Experience in value chain development, MSME development, or community engagement in natural resource management.
   • Experience in working on similar projects related to mangrove management or climate change adaptation is a plus.
3. Languages:
   • Fluency in Dutch is required, and knowledge of English is advantageous.
4. Competencies:
   • Ability to manage and implement projects effectively.
   • Knowledge of sustainable business practices and environmental management.
   • Ability to engage and build partnerships with diverse stakeholders, from local communities to government institutions.

Work Environment:

• The position is based in Paramaribo, Suriname, and involves both office-based and fieldwork. The role requires travel within the country to engage with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

UNDP Values:

• UNDP is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It values a diverse workforce and encourages individuals from marginalized or underserved populations to apply.

In summary, this role focuses on supporting the sustainable management of Suriname’s mangrove forests, creating economic opportunities for local communities, and promoting gender equality and social inclusion. The position combines elements of environmental science, community development, research, and project management.

Expanding on the Technical Officer, Research and Value Chain Development position with UNDP in Suriname, this detailed overview aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the job, its background, objectives, responsibilities, required skills, and the institutional framework in which it operates.

I. Overview of UNDP and the Mangrove Conservation Context in Suriname

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been one of the key development partners for Suriname since 1994. Over the years, it has worked in close collaboration with the Surinamese government to address critical environmental, social, and governance issues. In particular, UNDP has focused on the preservation and sustainable management of Suriname’s natural resources, aligning with the broader goals of sustainable development and climate resilience.

Suriname, a small country on the northeast coast of South America, is home to one of the world’s most important and extensive mangrove forests, which stretch over 386 kilometers of coastline. These forests are of paramount importance to the country’s ecosystem, biodiversity, and population, especially as they are located in low-lying coastal areas where nearly 90% of the population resides. Mangroves play several key roles in the environment, ranging from providing protection against coastal erosion to serving as habitats for numerous species. Additionally, they act as natural buffers against the effects of rising sea levels, storm surges, and flooding, which are increasingly exacerbated by climate change.

The PRSUMF Project (Protection, Restoration, and Sustainable Use of Mangrove Forests) is the latest in a series of initiatives designed to preserve Suriname’s mangrove ecosystems while simultaneously improving the economic wellbeing of its coastal communities. Funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by UNDP, the project follows previous phases of the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA+), which began in 2016. The primary focus of the PRSUMF project is to foster a more inclusive, sustainable approach to mangrove conservation that addresses both environmental and socio-economic challenges.

The mangrove forests of Suriname, which account for 2% of the world’s total mangrove area, are vital not only for coastal protection but also as a source of sustainable livelihoods for many local communities. However, these ecosystems are under threat from various environmental pressures such as illegal logging, land reclamation, unsustainable fishing practices, and the increasing impacts of climate change. The PRSUMF project seeks to enhance mangrove resilience, safeguard these ecosystems, and simultaneously enable local communities to benefit economically through sustainable value chains, such as ecotourism, honey production, and sustainable fisheries.

II. The Role of the Technical Officer, Research and Value Chain Development

The Technical Officer, Research and Value Chain Development plays a central role in the successful implementation of the PRSUMF project. This position supports the project’s objectives by working to integrate research, sustainable economic development, and community participation into the broader framework of mangrove conservation. By promoting the development of value chains linked to mangrove ecosystems, the Technical Officer helps create economic opportunities for local communities, particularly focusing on marginalized groups like women and youth.

This position also acts as a liaison between various stakeholders involved in the project, including local communities, government entities, private sector partners, and academic institutions. Furthermore, the officer will oversee the monitoring of mangrove health and the development of sustainable value chains that can contribute to both conservation and the economic empowerment of local populations.

III. Key Functions and Responsibilities

1. Promoting Sustainable Value Chain Development

The first and foremost responsibility of the Technical Officer is to facilitate the development of sustainable value chains based on mangrove resources. This involves identifying and cultivating viable economic activities that can be derived from the mangrove ecosystem without harming its ecological integrity. Some of the potential value chains include:

• Ecotourism: With Suriname’s pristine mangrove forests and coastal landscapes, ecotourism presents a significant opportunity for sustainable income generation. The officer will need to help local communities develop eco-friendly tourism ventures that promote environmental awareness while providing economic benefits.
• Honey Production: Mangrove forests are home to unique flora and fauna, and local communities can produce mangrove honey, which is distinct in flavor and quality. The officer will facilitate training programs to help local entrepreneurs develop sustainable beekeeping practices.
• Sustainable Fisheries: Fisheries in and around mangrove areas are a vital part of local diets and economies. The officer will work with local fishermen and communities to ensure that fishing practices are sustainable, reducing the risks of overfishing and ensuring that fish populations remain healthy.
• Other Value Chains: The officer will also explore other potential value chains that might emerge from the mangrove ecosystem, such as the sustainable harvesting of wood, medicinal plants, or craft products.

In addition to developing value chains, the officer will be responsible for facilitating local dialogues and engaging communities in the decision-making process regarding the sustainable use of these resources. This is an essential part of the role, as the success of the project relies heavily on local participation and buy-in.

2. Community Co-Management and Gender Mainstreaming

An essential component of the PRSUMF project is community-based co-management of mangrove resources. The Technical Officer will work closely with local communities to build community governance structures and ensure that the rights and responsibilities associated with managing mangrove ecosystems are shared equitably.

Gender equality is another key focus of the project. The officer will work to mainstream gender considerations into the development of value chains and community-based activities. This will involve identifying opportunities for women’s empowerment, particularly in areas like honey production, ecotourism, and fisheries. The officer will also ensure that both men and women can equally participate in project activities and benefit from the sustainable economic opportunities the project offers.

3. Research and Monitoring of Mangrove Ecosystems

As part of the project’s broader goal of monitoring and evaluating mangrove health, the officer will be responsible for conducting research on mangrove ecosystems and developing a national forest monitoring system for mangroves. This will involve working with experts to design and implement systems for tracking changes in mangrove health, assessing the impacts of climate change, and evaluating the effectiveness of conservation efforts.

The officer will also prepare research reports on the findings of the monitoring activities, which will inform the development of best practices for mangrove conservation and sustainable resource use. Regular monitoring and research are critical to understanding how mangroves are responding to the pressures they face, and the officer’s findings will guide future interventions and improvements in the project.

4. Capacity Building and Knowledge Exchange

One of the most important aspects of the Technical Officer’s role is to foster knowledge exchange and capacity building among local communities, stakeholders, and partners. This involves organizing and facilitating training workshops, seminars, and other capacity-building activities that promote sustainable practices in mangrove management and value chain development.

Additionally, the officer will help connect local communities with academic institutions, private sector partners, and other stakeholders. This collaboration will ensure that the latest research and best practices are shared and that local communities have access to the support they need to implement sustainable practices.

5. Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement

The Technical Officer will play a key role in strengthening partnerships between the UNDP project and various local, national, and international stakeholders. This includes government agencies, research institutions, NGOs, community leaders, and private sector actors. Developing these partnerships is crucial for ensuring the sustainability and success of the project, as it ensures that all stakeholders are aligned around common objectives.

In addition to building new partnerships, the officer will also work to strengthen existing relationships with project partners, ensuring that communication flows smoothly and that all parties are working together effectively. This will require regular meetings, updates, and coordination with various stakeholders.

6. Support for Project Management

The Technical Officer will work under the guidance of the Project Manager to support the overall management of the PRSUMF project. This will involve coordinating activities, ensuring that project objectives are being met, and tracking progress through regular monitoring and evaluation.

The officer will also be responsible for preparing various reports, including progress reports, financial reports, and annual reviews. These reports will be presented to the Project Steering Board, which oversees the project’s implementation and ensures that it is on track to meet its objectives.

The Technical Officer will also assist in the recruitment of consultants and experts when necessary, particularly for specialized tasks such as monitoring mangrove ecosystems or conducting socio-economic research.

IV. Required Skills and Qualifications

The position of Technical Officer, Research and Value Chain Development, requires a combination of technical expertise, project management skills, and the ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders. Here are the key qualifications and skills needed for the role:

1. Educational Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in environmental management, socio-economic studies, sustainable development, or related fields is required. Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of relevant experience in value chain development and MSME support will also be considered.

2. Professional Experience

• Experience in value chain development, particularly in natural resource-based industries, is crucial. The officer should have experience working on sustainable development projects, particularly in rural or coastal communities.
• Experience in working with donor-funded projects, government agencies, NGOs, or the private sector is highly desirable.
• The officer should also have experience in community engagement, particularly in the context of mangrove conservation or climate change adaptation.

3. Languages

• Fluency in Dutch is required, as this is the official language of Suriname. A working knowledge of English is also beneficial.

4. Competencies

• Project Management: Ability to plan, coordinate, and oversee project activities, ensuring that the objectives are met on time and within budget.
• Partnership Building: Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government institutions, NGOs, and local communities.
• Research and Analytical Skills: Strong ability to conduct research, analyze data, and prepare reports on findings related to mangrove ecosystems and value chains.
• Gender Sensitivity: Understanding of gender equality principles and experience in ensuring the participation and empowerment of women in development projects.

5. Personal Attributes

• Adaptability and Flexibility: The officer must be able to adjust to changing circumstances and handle uncertainty effectively.
• Communication Skills: Strong oral and written communication skills are essential, particularly for preparing reports, delivering presentations, and engaging with stakeholders.

V. Working Environment

The Technical Officer will work in Paramaribo, Suriname’s capital, but the role will require frequent travel to coastal communities and mangrove sites. This is a field-intensive position, and the officer will be expected to engage with communities, local government officials, and project partners in various parts of the country.

Conclusion

The Technical Officer, Research and Value Chain Development position with UNDP in Suriname is a unique and impactful role. It offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental conservation, community development, and sustainable economic growth. By supporting the development of sustainable value chains around mangrove ecosystems, the officer will contribute to both the preservation of vital natural resources and the improvement of livelihoods for Suriname’s coastal communities. The role requires a combination of technical expertise, strong project management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders.