Project Specialist [Open to Tier 0, 1 & 2 applicants]

In line with the commitment to safeguard capacity and support personnel already in the Organization, a majority of UNDP UNCDF/UNV vacancies are advertised using a tiered application process whereby:

Please make note of the Tier(s) indicated in the vacancy title, if any, and ensure that you satisfy the eligibility to apply.

Background

Under the UNDP Pacific Multi-Country Office in Fiji, the Effective and Inclusive Governance team focuses on strengthening democratic institutions, fostering public engagement, and promoting inclusivity across the Pacific. 

Nauru Accountable and Inclusive Governance Project 

Through technical assistance, knowledge exchanges, and resources tailored to the Pacific context, UNDP works to create resilient democratic institutions and a more inclusive, informed citizenry across the region. A critical component is the modernization of the Births, Deaths, and Marriages (BDM) registry, which currently operates on a paper-based system. The goal is to transition to a digitized CRVS platform that ensures every citizen’s right to legal identity and access to services.

The NAIG Project Phase II has Five outputs:

Support to the Electoral Projects

The Pacific Elections Assistance Program (PEAP) and the Voter Outreach for Transparent Elections (VOTE) Fiji project aim to strengthen electoral processes across the Pacific region. The PEAP is designed to enhance electoral institutional capacity, decision-making, and professional development across Pacific Island Countries (PICs). Through technical assistance, information exchanges, and sensitive approaches and aims to foster a more inclusive and representative democracy. Key outputs include advancing civic and voter education, improving election curricula for youth, enhancing operational efficiency, and strengthening election security. The VOTE Fiji project focuses on improving the electoral environment in Fiji by reinforcing the Fijian Elections Office’s transparency and civic awareness efforts. The project prioritises gender-sensitive approaches and aims to foster a more inclusive and representative democracy. Key outputs include advancing civic and voter education, improving election curricula for youth, enhancing operational efficiency, and strengthening election security.

These Projects align with the UNDP Multi-Country Program Document (2023-2027) Strategic Plan outcome, "No-one left behind," which centers on equitable access to opportunities and a rights-based approach to ongoing human agency and human development. The project's outputs directly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), Country Program Document (CPD), and Regional Programme Document (RPD).

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the overall guidance and supervision of the NAIG Project Manager, and the PEAP and VOTE Fiji Project Manager, the - Project Specialist  is responsible for supporting the Project Managers to deliver high‑quality administrative, procurement, and financial services in support of project implementation. The incumbent ensures the effective, transparent, and accountable use of project resources and upholds the integrity of all financial and operational processes.

The Project Specialist provides leadership in managing administrative, financial and procurement functions, ensuring compliance with UNDP rules, regulations, and standards. - The incumbent fosters a strong client‑oriented approach, supports efficient project delivery, and contributes to strengthening operational systems that enhance the effectiveness and credibility of the project.

Summary of Functions:

Ensure  efficient and effective operational strategies, planning, coordination and monitoring of project results and activities

Management of Project Finance, Budgets, and Cost-Recovery System

Contribute to the implementation of project visibility and knowledge management activities: 

Maintenance and archiving of project documentation and management of project assets

The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organisation

Competencies

Core competencies

Cross-functional & Technical competencies

Administration & Operations               

Procurement  

Finance              

Finance

Business Direction and Strategy        

Business Direction & Strategy             

Business Management

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Experience:

Minimum of five (5) years (with a Master’s degree) or seven (7) years (with a Bachelor’s degree) of progressive relevant experience in the area of resource management of programme projects and/or financial reporting in UNDP/UN Agency or an international development agency. 

Required  skills:

Desired skills:

Required Language

Equal opportunity

As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate and, as such, we encourage qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply for roles in the organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the role, without discrimination. 

UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, can thrive, and benefit from career opportunities that are open to all.

Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority

UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination and abuse of authority. All selected candidates, therefore, undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles. 

Right to select multiple candidates

UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement.  We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.

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