Technical Specialist – Climate Resilience & Water Resource Management (UNDP Pakistan)

February 24, 2025

10 minutes read

Technical Specialist – UNDP (Islamabad, Pakistan)

This job at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) is focused on water resource management, climate adaptation, and environmental sustainability in Gilgit-Baltistan under the Water for Development (W4D) Project. The selected candidate will be responsible for planning, implementing, and coordinating the project while working closely with government agencies, local communities, and other stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:http://Technical Specialist – UNDP Pakistan

1. Project Planning & Implementation

Develop annual work plans (AWP), budgets, and procurement strategies.
Supervise the execution of project activities, ensuring efficiency and high quality.
Provide technical guidance to project personnel and implementing partners.
Ensure the project follows UNDP policies and government regulations.
Promote gender equality in all aspects of the project.

2. Technical Leadership in Water Resource Management (WRM)

Act as a subject matter expert on water resource management and climate resilience.
Develop policy briefs, reports, and advocacy materials.
Stay updated on the latest climate change adaptation strategies.
Identify opportunities for collaboration with other UNDP projects.

3. Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships

Liaise with government agencies, academia, NGOs, and the private sector.
Develop funding proposals and support resource mobilization.
Organize workshops, consultations, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
Represent UNDP in policy dialogues and high-level forums.

4. Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting

Design a monitoring framework with clear indicators and baselines.
Conduct field visits to ensure project activities align with the planned objectives.
Oversee risk management, including environmental and social risks.
Prepare and submit progress reports to UNDP, donors, and government agencies.

Skills & Competencies Required

Core Competencies:

Strategic Thinking – Ability to analyze complex environmental and developmental challenges.
Leadership – Manage and guide a multidisciplinary team effectively.
Project Management – Expertise in planning, budgeting, and execution of large-scale projects.
Communication – Strong ability to engage with multiple stakeholders and present complex information clearly.

Technical Competencies:

Water Resource Management – Expertise in sustainable water use, flood management, and disaster risk reduction (DRR).
Climate Resilience & Adaptation – Understanding of climate change impacts, environmental policies, and mitigation strategies.
Policy Development – Experience in policy recommendations and working with government agencies.
Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) – Ability to track project outcomes, assess risks, and adjust strategies accordingly.
Stakeholder Engagement – Skilled in coordinating between public, private, and international organizations.

Qualifications & Experience Required

Education:
- Master’s Degree in Environmental Sciences, Climate Change, Water Resource Management, Development Studies, or a related field.
- Bachelor’s Degree holders need 9 years of relevant experience.
Experience:
- 7+ years (with Master’s) or 9+ years (with Bachelor’s) in development project planning and management.
- Proven experience in policy advisory, project leadership, and stakeholder coordination.
- Expertise in resource mobilization and proposal writing is a plus.
- Knowledge of UNDP policies and procurement procedures is desirable.
Languages:
- Fluency in English and Urdu is required.

Contract Details

Position Type: Full-time (National Personnel Service Agreement – NPSA-11)
Contract Duration: 1 year (renewable based on performance)
Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
Deadline to Apply: March 6, 2025

Why Apply?

This is a high-impact role within UNDP Pakistan, focusing on climate resilience and water resource management. It is ideal for candidates with strong project leadership, environmental expertise, and stakeholder coordination skills. The job offers an opportunity to work on critical environmental challenges, contribute to sustainable development, and engage with high-level policy-making.

Would you like help in preparing a resume, cover letter, or interview strategy for this role? 😊

Detailed Overview of the Technical Specialist Role at UNDP – Islamabad, Pakistan

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking a highly skilled Technical Specialist to lead and coordinate efforts in water resource management, climate adaptation, and sustainable development. This position is part of the Water for Development (W4D) Project, which focuses on improving climate resilience and environmental sustainability in Gilgit-Baltistan.

The selected candidate will play a critical leadership role in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, policy development, and technical implementation of key project activities. The role requires expertise in climate resilience, disaster risk reduction (DRR), water conservation, and environmental policy formulation.

This is a nationally recruited position, and the successful candidate will work under the direct supervision of the Assistant Resident Representative (ARR) of UNDP Pakistan, collaborating with various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations (CSOs), academic institutions, and community leaders.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

1. Project Leadership & Strategic Planning

Lead the design, implementation, and execution of the Water for Development (W4D) Project.
Develop and refine project strategies, annual work plans (AWPs), and performance benchmarks.
Ensure the alignment of project objectives with national and international climate policies, including the National Climate Resilience and Adaptation Plan (2023-2030).
Provide technical leadership in climate change adaptation, environmental conservation, and sustainable water resource management.
Identify innovative solutions for climate resilience and ecosystem management.

2. Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement

Act as the primary liaison between UNDP, government agencies, research institutions, and international development partners.
Establish and strengthen partnerships with key stakeholders, including the Department of Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries, the Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Department, NGOs, and donor organizations.
Ensure effective communication and collaboration between different project teams and partners.
Lead policy dialogues, technical working groups, and community consultations to support informed decision-making.

3. Policy Development & Advocacy

Conduct policy research and analysis on water resource management, environmental protection, and climate adaptation.
Prepare and present policy briefs, research reports, and strategic recommendations to government bodies and international partners.
Advocate for sustainable development practices by promoting scientific and evidence-based solutions.
Support the government in strengthening national policies related to disaster risk reduction (DRR), sustainable tourism, and agricultural resilience.

4. Technical & Capacity Development

Provide technical guidance and capacity-building support to government institutions, community organizations, and project teams.
Develop training materials, workshops, and knowledge-sharing platforms to build local and institutional expertise.
Integrate gender-sensitive approaches into climate adaptation and environmental projects.
Foster community-driven solutions by involving local stakeholders in sustainable resource management initiatives.

5. Monitoring, Evaluation & Risk Management

Develop monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to track project progress, impact, and outcomes.
Conduct regular site visits and assessments to ensure project efficiency and effectiveness.
Identify potential risks, including social, environmental, and operational challenges, and propose mitigation strategies.
Prepare quarterly and annual progress reports for submission to UNDP leadership and donors.

6. Resource Mobilization & Fundraising

Identify funding opportunities and develop concept notes, proposals, and grant applications.
Engage with private sector entities, donor agencies, and international organizations to secure financial and technical support for UNDP projects.
Ensure proper budgeting and financial management in compliance with UNDP guidelines and donor requirements.

Essential Qualifications & Requirements

Education:

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Sciences, Climate Change, Water Resource Management, Development Studies, Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), or a related field is required.
A bachelor’s degree in the above fields with an additional two years of experience may be accepted in place of a master’s degree.

Experience:@vacancyspaces.com

7 years of relevant experience with a master’s degree or 9 years of experience with a bachelor’s degree.
Proven experience in designing, managing, and implementing large-scale development projects.
Strong background in climate adaptation, water resource management, disaster risk reduction (DRR), and environmental governance.
Experience in policy development, advisory services, and stakeholder engagement.
Hands-on experience in project planning, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting.
Prior experience working with international organizations, UN agencies, or government institutions is highly desirable.

Technical Skills & Competencies:

Climate & Environmental Expertise – In-depth knowledge of climate change adaptation, sustainable water management, and disaster risk reduction (DRR).
Project Management – Experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams, managing budgets, and executing complex projects.
Policy Analysis – Ability to develop, evaluate, and implement policies related to environmental governance and sustainable development.
Stakeholder Collaboration – Skilled in networking, advocacy, and coordination with government, civil society, and international partners.
Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) – Expertise in data collection, impact assessment, and results-based management.
Resource Mobilization – Experience in fundraising, proposal writing, and donor engagement.

Language Requirements:

Fluency in English and Urdu (written and spoken) is required.

Contract & Employment Details

Position Type: Full-time (National Personnel Service Agreement – NPSA-11)
Duty Station: Islamabad, Pakistan (with field visits to project sites in Gilgit-Baltistan)
Contract Duration: 1 year (renewable based on performance)
Application Deadline: March 6, 2025

Why Apply for This Role?

1. High-Impact Work

Contribute to climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and water conservation in Pakistan.
Support communities in Gilgit-Baltistan, a fragile ecosystem facing climate threats.

2. Leadership & Growth Opportunities

Gain international exposure by working with UNDP, government agencies, and global partners.
Lead policy dialogues, research initiatives, and development programs.

3. Competitive Benefits & Work Environment

Work in a prestigious international organization that promotes diversity, inclusion, and professional development.
Engage with multi-sectoral experts, policymakers, and development practitioners.

How to Apply?

Interested candidates should submit their application through the official UNDP careers portal before the deadline on March 6, 2025. Ensure that your resume and cover letter highlight relevant experience in climate resilience, policy advocacy, and project management.

Would you like assistance with crafting a compelling resume, cover letter, or preparing for the interview? Let me know, and I’d be happy to help!

Detailed Job Overview: Technical Specialist – UNDP Pakistan (Water for Development Project)

The Technical Specialist role with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Islamabad, Pakistan, offers a highly impactful opportunity for professionals interested in addressing climate change, sustainable development, and water resource management. This position is integral to the Water for Development (W4D) Project, which seeks to enhance the climate resilience and environmental sustainability of Gilgit-Baltistan, a region that is highly vulnerable to climate change.

The Technical Specialist will be responsible for leading technical aspects of the project, managing multi-stakeholder coordination, developing strategic policies, and offering expert guidance on water resource management, climate resilience, and disaster risk reduction (DRR). As part of UNDP’s Pakistan office, the selected candidate will have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on local communities and contribute to global efforts in achieving the SDGs and climate targets, particularly those related to water, environment, and energy.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Project Leadership and Management:

Lead and manage the implementation of project activities, ensuring the project stays within scope, timeline, and budget.
Develop annual work plans (AWP) and monitor progress towards achieving climate resilience, water resource management, and sustainability objectives.
Supervise project teams and ensure effective collaboration with local governments, stakeholders, and implementing partners.
Provide technical expertise and guidance throughout the project lifecycle, from design to execution.

2. Strategic Planning and Policy Development:

Develop strategic plans to guide project implementation, ensuring alignment with national policies and frameworks like the National Climate Resilience and Adaptation Plan (2023-2030).
Provide high-level policy advice to stakeholders on environmental risk management, water resource policies, and climate adaptation strategies.
Prepare and submit policy briefs, technical reports, and research papers that shape national and regional policies.

3. Stakeholder Coordination:

Coordinate and build partnerships with key government entities, UN agencies, local communities, and civil society organizations (CSOs).
Organize and lead policy dialogues, workshops, and training sessions to increase capacity in water resource management, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk reduction (DRR).
Engage stakeholders at the local, national, and international levels to foster collaboration and expand the project’s impact.

4. Resource Mobilization and Fundraising:

Identify funding opportunities and support the preparation of concept notes, proposals, and donor briefings to secure additional project funding.
Develop and manage strategic partnerships with donors and the private sector to further the project’s goals.

5. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Risk Management:

Lead the development of monitoring and evaluation frameworks and systems to track progress and measure outcomes.
Conduct regular field visits to monitor activities, review project performance, and adjust project strategies as needed.
Identify and manage project risks, including social, environmental, and operational challenges, while ensuring compliance with UNDP’s policies.

Provide cutting-edge technical advice in the areas of water management, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk reduction.
Facilitate the dissemination of knowledge through the creation of reports, case studies, and best practices that can be shared with national and international stakeholders.
Engage in capacity-building efforts to enhance local and national expertise in climate resilience and sustainable water management.

Skills and Expertise Required:

Education:

A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Sciences, Climate Change, Integrated Water Resource Management, Developmental Studies, Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), or a related field.
Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in the same field along with an additional two years of qualifying experience.

Experience:

A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in development project management, especially related to climate change, water management, and environmental policy.
Experience in formulating, leading, and managing large-scale projects involving multiple stakeholders.
Proven expertise in climate resilience, sustainable development, disaster risk reduction (DRR), and water resource management.
Familiarity with UNDP policies and procedures, especially in procurement, fundraising, and resource mobilization.

Technical Skills:

Project Management – Ability to lead, organize, and coordinate large, multi-disciplinary teams.
Policy Development – Strong skills in research, policy formulation, and advocacy.
Risk Management – Expertise in identifying and mitigating potential risks across different sectors.
M&E – Strong ability to develop monitoring and evaluation frameworks for large projects.
Resource Mobilization – Experience in developing and submitting funding proposals for development projects.

Language Skills:

Fluency in English and Urdu is required. Proficiency in other languages (e.g., local languages of Gilgit-Baltistan) is a plus.

Why Apply for the Technical Specialist Role?

This role provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the climate resilience and sustainability of one of Pakistan’s most vulnerable regions, Gilgit-Baltistan. The role also offers:

Leadership opportunities in project management, policy development, and climate change adaptation.
Collaboration with international experts and stakeholders from UN agencies, local governments, research institutions, and NGOs.
The chance to shape national policies on environmental governance, disaster risk management, and water resource management.
A dynamic work environment where you can innovate and work on cutting-edge solutions for pressing environmental and climate challenges.

If you are passionate about sustainable development, climate change adaptation, and water resource management, this role offers a highly rewarding career path with UNDP Pakistan.

For more information on the application process and to apply for the position, visit the official UNDP Job Portal.

February 24, 2025

10 minutes read