Jobs For Faculty Of Agriculture Graduates in Iraq

<h2 class="h5">Job description</h2> <div class="t-break" data-jb-field="description"> <span></span><p><br><span><strong>Organizational Setting</strong></span></p><br><p><span>The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Iraq supports the Government of Iraq in strengthening food security, sustainable agriculture, resilient livelihoods and rural development. FAO works in close collaboration with national and local authorities, farming communities and other relevant stakeholders to implement programmes responding to the priorities of the agriculture sector.</span><br><span>The position is based in Karbala and will support the field-level implementation of FAO agricultural activities in the governorate, with particular focus on date palm production systems and support to farmers. The incumbent will work closely with the FAO technical team, relevant government counterparts, local stakeholders and beneficiaries to facilitate the effective implementation and monitoring of project activities at field level.</span></p><br><p><br><span><strong>Reporting Lines</strong></span></p><br><p><span>The Technical Project Assistant will work under the direct supervision of the FAO representative in Iraq and in close coordination with FAO technical teams.</span></p><br><p><br><span><strong>Technical Focus</strong></span></p><br><p><span>Support implementation of agricultural activities including crop management, integrated pest management (IPM), post-harvest practices, farmer field schools (FFS), and project data management, with a focus on date palm and related value chains.</span></p><br><p><br><span><strong>Tasks and responsibilities</strong></span></p><br><p><span>• Support the technical team in meetings, workshops, and conferences</span><br><span>• Assist in crop management and application of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) in farmers’ orchards</span><br><span>• Support crop protection and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) activities</span><br><span>• Assist in post-harvest treatments, processing, and marketing activities</span><br><span>• Contribute to the preparation of technical documents and training materials</span><br><span>• Organize logistical arrangements for trainings, events, and field visits</span><br><span>• Handle travel arrangements for project teams and counterparts</span><br><span>• Maintain and organize office files, records, and documentation</span><br><span>• Liaise with Farmer Field School (FFS) facilitators and support field implementation</span><br><span>• Collect, organize, and monitor field data</span><br><span>• Consolidate reports from FFS facilitators and Survey123 platform</span><br><span>• Analyze field data and prepare assessment reports</span><br><span>• Maintain records of equipment distribution and warehouse inventories</span><br><span>• Support preparation of communication materials</span><br><span>• Prepare periodic activity reports</span></p><br><p><br><span><strong>CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING</strong></span></p><br><p><br><span><strong>Minimum Requirements </strong></span></p><br><p><span>• University degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Plant Protection, or related field </span><br><span>• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in agricultural field projects </span><br><span>• Working knowledge of Arabic </span><br><span>• National of Iraq or resident of the country with a valid work permit.</span></p><br><p><br><span><strong>FAO Core Competencies</strong></span></p><br><p><span>• Results Focus</span><br><span>• Teamwork</span><br><span>• Communication</span><br><span>• Building Effective Relationships</span><br><span>• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement</span></p><br><p><br><span><strong>Technical/Functional Skills</strong></span></p><br><p><span>• Experience in crop management, IPM, and GAP practices </span><br><span>• Experience in supporting Farmer Field Schools (FFS) or similar agricultural extension activities </span><br><span>• Experience in data collection, analysis, and reporting (e.g., Survey123 or similar tools) </span><br><span>• Familiarity with logistics coordination and field operations </span><br><span>• Knowledge of post-harvest handling and agricultural value chains is an asset</span><br><span>• Working knowledge of English is desirable</span></p><br><p><span><strong>ADDITIONAL INFORMATION</strong></span></p><br><br><ul><li><span>FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing)</span></li><li><span>Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted</span></li><li><span>Please note that FAO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed at </span><span>http://www.whed.net/ </span></li><li><span>For additional employment opportunities visit the FAO employment website: http://www.fao.org/employment/home/en/ </span></li><li><span> Appointment will be subject to certification that the candidate is medically fit for appointment, accreditation, any residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. </span></li></ul> </div>

<p><span style="font-size: 11px;"><b>RESPONSIBILITIES:&nbsp;</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 11px;"><br></span></p><p><span style="font-size: 11px;">Under the direct supervision of the JOBS National Project Coordinator, the selected candidate will be responsible for the following tasks:</span></p><ul><li>Support project activities implementation in the Basra and neighbouring governorates in southern Iraq</li><li>Support the development and maintenance of effective relationships with implementing partners and local stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector organizations, civil society organizations, and beneficiaries.</li><li>Assist in organizing periodic meetings with local authorities to create awareness and enhance support of implementation of project activities in target areas.</li><li>Conduct regular field visits to project sites to monitor progress (M&amp;E), identify challenges, and assist in providing technical support to beneficiaries, in liaison with implementing partners.</li><li>Report any challenges or deviation from agreed plans and identify solutions with national management.</li><li>Support the development and implementation of project activities, including surveys, capacity-building workshops, training sessions, and networking events.</li><li>Support communication and coordination between the project teams and local stakeholders as well as other international organisations, organizing relevant meetings and ensuring that relevant information is shared with all.</li><li>Contribute to the collection and analysis of data on project activities, beneficiaries, and stakeholders to support project reporting and monitoring and evaluation.</li><li>Administer surveys and interviews, collect photographic evidence, share data in due time through appropriate channels.</li><li>Support monitoring the political, security and business context in Basra and neighbouring governorates in southern Iraq and share information regularly with the team through ad hoc reports.</li><li>Participate actively in internal and external coordination meetings.</li><li>Support the establishment and maintenance links with other related projects.</li><li>Provide logistic support to ITC and partner missions in Basra and neighbouring governorates in southern Iraq: agenda, meetings, transportation, security and accommodation in coordination with UN system and under guidance of ITC National Administrative and Financial Officer.</li><li>Support compliance with security measures and ITC procedures, policies, and regulations.</li><li>Perform other relevant duties as required.</li></ul><p>Copyright: The personnel has to ensure that s/he has obtained the necessary permissions with regards to intellectual property rights required to perform his/her services under this contract and for the subsequent dissemination by ITC in any form. Documentary proof is to be submitted to ITC. Should any license fee be due for the use of copyrighted materials of third parties, the Consultant shall request the prior written permission from ITC. S/he has further to ensure to obtain accreditation to event(s), if required.</p><p><strong>Desired Candidate Profile</strong></p>EDUCATION: High school diploma or equivalent. Training or certification in agriculture, agri-food, or a related field is desirable.<br>EXPERIENCE: A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation or related area. The minimum years of relevant experience can be reduced to five (5) for candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher. Experience working with government agencies, private sector organizations, and NGOs and civil society organizations desirable. Experience in the agriculture or agri-food sector desirable. Experience in stakeholder engagement and communication, including organizing stakeholder meetings and workshops desirable. Experience collecting, analysing, and interpreting data.<br>COMPETENCIES:<br>Professionalism: Direct knowledge of the local area. Knowledge of the UN system and procedures would be an asset. Ability to collect information and assess potential security trends that may impact UN operations. Direct knowledge of the local area. Knowledge of the UN system and procedures would be an asset Shows pride in work and in achievements. Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter. Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results. Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns. Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects of work.<br>Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Solicits inputs by genuinely valuing others ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.<br>Accountability: Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable.<br>Languages<br>Fluency in in English and Arabic is required.

<h2 class="h5">Job description</h2> <div class="t-break" data-jb-field="description"> <p><strong>Tiered Approach</strong></p><br> <p>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:</p><br> <ul> <li><strong>Tier 0</strong>: UNDP/UNCDF/UNV IP staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments, whose posts will be abolished, or contracts will be terminated or not renewed during 2026.</li> <li><strong>Tier 1</strong>: Other UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments</li> <li><strong>Tier 2</strong>: UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding temporary appointments (TA), personnel on regular PSA contracts, and Expert and Specialist UN Volunteers</li> <li><strong>Tier 3 or no tier indicated</strong>: All other contract types from UNDP/UNCDF/UNV and other agencies, and other external candidates</li> </ul> <p>Please make note of the Tier(s) indicated in the vacancy title, if any, and ensure that you satisfy the eligibility to apply.</p><br> <p><strong>Background</strong></p><br> <p><span>Iraq is recognized as one of the most affected countries by the harmful effects of climate change. Iraq ratified the Paris Agreement on January 14, 2021. In October 2021, the Government of Iraq (GoI) signed their first National Determined Contribution (NDC), which has been presented at the COP26. The Government of Iraq has requested UNDP support in implementation of the NDC, including through capacity development, advisory for sectoral planning and formulation of related strategies, frameworks, and instruments.&nbsp;</span></p><br> <p><span>UNDP is the knowledge frontier organization for sustainable development in the UN Development System and serves as the integrator for collective action to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP's policy work carried out at HQ, Regional and Country Office levels offers a spectrum of deep local knowledge to cutting-edge global perspectives and advocacy. UNDP invests in the Global Policy Network (GPN), a network of field-based and global technical expertise across a wide range of knowledge domains in support of the signature solutions and organizational capabilities envisioned in UNDP's Strategic Plan.</span></p><br> <p><span>UNDP is an accredited Implementing Agency for the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Trust Fund and the family of funds such as the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF), the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF), and the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBBF). As an Implementing Agency, UNDP offers countries highly specialized services for eligibility assessment, project formulation and due diligence, co-financing mobilization, implementation oversight, results management and evaluation, and knowledge management.</span></p><br> <p><span>Iraq faces significant environmental and public health risks associated with persistent organic pollutants (POPs), hazardous chemicals, obsolete pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), unintentional POPs (UPOPs), industrial POPs (IPOPs), and chemically contaminated sites. Previous assessments identified substantial quantities of obsolete pesticides and potentially PCB-contaminated electrical equipment and highlighted significant technical and institutional capacity gaps in chemicals and contaminated-sites management.</span></p><br> <p><span>The Government of Iraq is a Party to major international chemicals and waste conventions, including the Stockholm, Basel, Rotterdam and Minamata Conventions. Iraq has previously developed a National Implementation Plan (NIP) under the Stockholm Convention; however, the existing NIP requires updating to reflect newly listed POPs, improved inventories, updated risk information, institutional developments and current national priorities.</span></p><br> <p><span>The Integrated Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Chemical Hotspots Management Project, therefore adopts an integrated approach combining:</span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>strengthening the national framework for POPs and hazardous chemicals management;</span></li> <li><span>updating the national POPs inventories and National Implementation Plan;</span></li> <li><span>strengthening laboratory, inspection, monitoring and institutional capacities;</span></li> <li><span>environmentally sound management and disposal of obsolete pesticides;</span></li> <li><span>management and disposal/phase-out of PCB-contaminated equipment, oils and waste; and</span></li> <li><span>assessment and remediation planning for priority chemical pollution hotspots</span></li> </ul> <p><span>The project comprises three components. Component 1 focuses on improved management of POPs and hazardous chemicals; Component 2 focuses on high-risk POPs in the agriculture and power sectors; and Component 3 addresses chemical pollution hotspots and contaminated sites.</span></p><br> <p><span>Implementation will require extensive technical assistance, consultancy services, procurement of laboratory and field equipment, hazardous waste management services, capacity building, site assessments, remediation planning and policy/regulatory development.</span></p><br> <p><span><strong>Scope of Work&nbsp;</strong></span></p><br> <p><span><strong>LEAD ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL SAFEGUARDS COMPLIANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT&nbsp;</strong></span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Lead and coordinate implementation of the World Bank Environmental and Social Framework (ESF), the project Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP), applicable Environmental and Social Standards, UNDP Social and Environmental Standards, and relevant national environmental, occupational health and safety, labour and stakeholder-engagement requirements.</span></li> <li><span>Establish and maintain a project-level environmental and social safeguards compliance and assurance system covering technical studies, field investigations, sampling, laboratory activities, procurement, transport, temporary storage, treatment, disposal, contaminated-site work and contractor operations.</span></li> <li><span>Review project activities and procurement packages for environmental and social risks and advise the Project Manager and UNDP on the safeguards instruments, mitigation measures, monitoring requirements and contractual provisions required before implementation.</span></li> <li><span>Review and provide technical clearance/advice on Environmental and Social Management Plans, site-specific management plans, occupational health and safety plans, waste-management plans, emergency preparedness and response arrangements, stakeholder-engagement measures, labour-management measures and other safeguards instruments required under the ESCP/ESF.</span></li> <li><span>Ensure that safeguards requirements are adequately incorporated into Terms of Reference, technical specifications, bidding documents, contracts, contractor method statements and implementation plans.</span></li> <li><span>Undertake or coordinate safeguards monitoring of consultants, contractors, laboratories, hazardous-waste operators and field activities; identify non-compliance and recommend corrective and preventive actions, including escalation of material risks to UNDP management.</span></li> <li><span>Provide safeguards oversight for handling, packaging, temporary storage, transport, treatment and disposal of obsolete pesticides, PCB-contaminated equipment/oils and other hazardous wastes, including worker and community health and safety and emergency-response considerations.</span></li> <li><span>Ensure appropriate environmental and social due diligence for chemical hotspot investigations and remediation planning, including community exposure pathways, vulnerable groups, land/access implications, occupational risks and stakeholder consultation.</span></li> <li><span>Support incident and accident reporting, root-cause review, corrective-action tracking and safeguards reporting to UNDP, the Ministry of Environment and the World Bank, as applicable.</span></li> <li><span>Maintain safeguards records and prepare periodic safeguards compliance notes/reports, including status of ESCP commitments, material risks, corrective actions and outstanding issues.</span></li> <li><span>Provide technical guidance and capacity development to the PMU, government counterparts, consultants and contractors on ESF/ESCP, UNDP safeguards, hazardous-chemicals risk management and good international industry practice.</span></li> </ul> <p><span><strong>ESTABLISH AND </strong></span><span><strong>LEAD</strong></span><span><strong> THE PROJECT TECHNICAL QUALITY ASSURANCE SYSTEM.</strong></span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Establish and maintain a systematic, risk-based technical quality assurance framework covering all project components, with defined review gates, technical acceptance criteria, peer-review requirements, corrective-action tracking and documentation of technical clearances.</span></li> <li><span>Review and advise on the technical adequacy of major Terms of Reference, scopes of work, technical specifications, sampling and analytical protocols, technical designs, bidding documents and evaluation criteria before procurement or implementation.</span></li> <li><span>Review consultants’ and contractors’ inception reports, methodologies, work plans, sampling plans, QA/QC plans, draft and final technical reports, feasibility studies, remediation designs, disposal/treatment proposals, laboratory methodologies, monitoring plans and technical training materials.</span></li> <li><span>Validate the scientific and technical soundness, internal consistency, traceability and fitness-for-purpose of technical data, assumptions, findings, conclusions and recommendations against project requirements, international standards and relevant convention guidance.</span></li> <li><span>Verify achievement of key technical milestones and advise the Project Manager on acceptance, conditional acceptance, revision or rejection of technical deliverables, without replacing the formal procurement/contract approval authorities.</span></li> <li><span>Provide written technical review notes and recommendations for corrective action where technical gaps, methodological weaknesses, data-quality concerns, safeguards risks or implementation deficiencies are identified.</span></li> <li><span>Support technical evaluation of specialized environmental procurement when requested, including assessment of technical methodologies, equipment specifications, laboratory capability, contractor qualifications and proposed treatment/disposal technologies.</span></li> <li><span>Promote harmonized methodologies, sampling protocols, laboratory procedures, QA/QC systems and environmental assessment approaches so that Component 3 technical systems can support subsequent implementation of Components 1 and 2.</span></li> </ul> <p><span><strong>TECHNICAL ASSESSMENT AND QUALITY ASSURANCE OF POPS, HAZARDOUS CHEMICALS, &nbsp;PCBs AND OBSOLETE PESTICIDES&nbsp;</strong></span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Provide senior technical review of national inventories and assessments of industrial POPs (iPOPs), unintentionally produced POPs (uPOPs), POPs pesticides, obsolete pesticides, newly listed POPs and other priority hazardous chemicals.</span></li> <li><span>Assess whether inventory methodologies, data sources, sampling strategies, analytical methods, laboratory QA/QC and data-management systems are consistent with Stockholm Convention guidance and internationally accepted practice.</span></li> <li><span>Review characterization, classification and prioritization of POPs stocks, waste streams, contaminated materials and exposure pathways, and ensure that inventory findings are appropriately reflected in risk-reduction measures, management plans and the updated National Implementation Plan (NIP).</span></li> <li><span>Provide technical quality assurance for the updated NIP, including validation of inventory findings, prioritization, action plans, resource requirements, risk-reduction measures and consistency with Iraq’s obligations under the Stockholm Convention.</span></li> <li><span>Review uPOPs assessments and application of the UNEP Toolkit, including source identification, emission estimation, prioritization and proposed Best Available Techniques/Best Environmental Practices (BAT/BEP).</span></li> <li><span>Provide technical oversight and independent review of the PCB inventory, including sampling and testing strategies for transformers, capacitors, oils and associated contaminated materials; classification and risk categorization; and prioritization for phase-out, treatment and disposal.</span></li> <li><span>Review and validate PCB management and phase-out plans and provide technical advice on decontamination, treatment, destruction and disposal options, including proposed mobile or fixed treatment technologies where applicable.</span></li> <li><span>Review technical arrangements for PCB collection, draining, packaging, labelling, temporary storage, transport, treatment and final disposal, ensuring cradle-to-grave tracking and adequate documentation.</span></li> <li><span>Provide technical review of obsolete pesticide stockpile assessments, site characterization, sampling and analytical results, risk assessments and proposed management/disposal strategies.</span></li> <li><span>Assess the technical and environmental suitability of packaging, containment, temporary storage, transportation, treatment and disposal options, including in-country and transboundary disposal arrangements.</span></li> <li><span>Review qualifications, methodologies and performance of specialized hazardous-waste contractors from a technical and safeguards perspective and verify disposal/destruction documentation and certificates.</span></li> <li><span>Ensure technical consistency with Stockholm Convention and Basel Convention requirements, applicable national requirements, the World Bank ESF and recognized international hazardous-waste management practices.</span></li> </ul> <p><span><strong>TECHNICAL&nbsp;ASSESSMENT AND QUALITY ASSURANCE OF CHEMICAL HOTSPOTS AND CONTAMINATED SITES&nbsp;</strong></span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Provide senior technical oversight and independent review of national hotspot identification and prioritization and detailed assessment of priority chemical contamination sites.</span></li> <li><span>Review conceptual site models, investigation designs, sampling plans, laboratory analytical programmes, data-quality objectives, hydrogeological assessments and contaminant fate-and-transport analyses.</span></li> <li><span>Review human health and ecological risk assessments, including exposure pathways, receptors, uncertainty analysis and risk-based prioritization.</span></li> <li><span>Assess remediation feasibility studies and site-specific remediation plans for technical feasibility, environmental and social soundness, proportionality to risk, implementability and long-term monitoring requirements.</span></li> <li><span>Advise on remediation objectives, cleanup criteria/standards, verification requirements, institutional controls and post-remediation monitoring.</span></li> <li><span>Provide technical guidance for the National Programme on Contaminated Sites Management, including site screening, risk classification, investigation, remediation decision-making, technical standards, GIS/database requirements and long-term monitoring.</span></li> <li><span>Ensure that contaminated-site assessments and remediation plans adequately address POPs and other hazardous chemical contamination and are consistent with the national information-management system being developed under Component 3.</span></li> </ul> <p><span><strong>LABORATORY, SAMPLING AND DATA QUALITY ASSURANCE</strong></span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Review laboratory modernization plans, analytical equipment specifications, installation/commissioning arrangements, calibration requirements, certified reference materials, QA/QC procedures and operation and maintenance provisions.</span></li> <li><span>Review and promote fit-for-purpose sampling, chain-of-custody, sample preservation, laboratory analytical and data-validation procedures for POPs, PCBs and chemical hotspot investigations.</span></li> <li><span>Assess laboratory and field-monitoring performance, including detection limits, calibration, proficiency, blanks/duplicates, data validation and documentation, and recommend corrective measures where data quality is insufficient.</span></li> <li><span>Ensure traceability of technical evidence from field sampling and laboratory analysis through risk assessment, inventory development, remediation/disposal decisions and reporting.</span></li> </ul> <p><span><strong>TECHNICAL MONITORING, VERIFICATION AND ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT AND CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT, KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER AND STRATEGIC TECHNICAL ADVICE</strong></span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Conduct periodic technical and safeguards implementation reviews across the project portfolio and provide concise assurance reports to UNDP management and the Project Manager on technical quality, compliance, emerging risks and required corrective actions.</span></li> <li><span>Support verification of contractor and consultant performance against approved methodologies, technical specifications, safeguards obligations, deliverables and key milestones.</span></li> <li><span>Contribute to technical review of project progress reports, Steering Committee documentation, World Bank missions and implementation-support reviews, focusing on technical quality and environmental/social compliance.</span></li> <li><span>Maintain technical issues and corrective-actions register and follow up on closure of significant findings.</span></li> <li><span>Apply adaptive management by identifying emerging technical, safeguards and implementation risks and recommending proportionate adjustments that preserve the approved project scope and contractual requirements.</span></li> <li><span>Provide targeted technical mentoring and on-the-job support to the PMU, Ministry of Environment and relevant national institutions on safeguards, POPs/PCB management, contaminated-site assessment, remediation planning, hazardous-waste management, laboratory QA/QC and technical review.</span></li> <li><span>Review technical manuals, standard operating procedures, guidance notes and training materials to ensure scientific accuracy, safeguards integration and consistency across project components.</span></li> <li><span>Support technical consultations, validation workshops and coordination with the Ministry of Environment, relevant ministries, laboratories, academia, technical institutions, the World Bank, GEF and specialized service providers.</span></li> <li><span>Document lessons learned and technical recommendations that strengthen sustainable national systems for POPs, hazardous chemicals and contaminated-site management beyond the project period.</span></li> <li><span>Provide substantive advice and technical support to the development and implementation of a capacity development/ learning plan on thematic area of the project for Country Office and participate in global/regional learning initiatives.</span></li> <li><span>Keep abreast of the developments in the thematic area of the project and provide guidance on how to incorporate them into UNDP’s current and future programming in the relevant sector. Provide technical guidance and quality assurance to content development for knowledge products.</span></li> </ul> <p><span><strong>BUILD STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND SUPPORT RESOURCE MOBILIZATION AND ACHIEVEMENT OF STRATEGIC RESULTS.&nbsp;</strong></span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Maintain strategic relationships with UNDP partners, Government institutions, donors, development partners, civil society, a</span></li></ul> </div>

<h2 class="h5">Job description</h2> <div class="t-break" data-jb-field="description"> <p><strong>Tiered Approach</strong></p><br> <p>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:</p><br> <ul> <li><strong>Tier 0</strong>: UNDP/UNCDF/UNV IP staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments, whose posts will be abolished, or contracts will be terminated or not renewed during 2026.</li> <li><strong>Tier 1</strong>: Other UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments</li> <li><strong>Tier 2</strong>: UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding temporary appointments (TA), personnel on regular PSA contracts, and Expert and Specialist UN Volunteers</li> <li><strong>Tier 3 or no tier indicated</strong>: All other contract types from UNDP/UNCDF/UNV and other agencies, and other external candidates</li> </ul> <p>Please make note of the Tier(s) indicated in the vacancy title, if any, and ensure that you satisfy the eligibility to apply.</p><br> <p><strong>Background</strong></p><br> <p>UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.&nbsp;</p><br> <p>UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.&nbsp;</p><br> <p>UNDP is the leading United Nations organization in fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations to build integrated, lasting solutions for people and planet. Learn more at&nbsp;undp.org&nbsp;or follow at @UNDP&nbsp;</p><br> <p>Iraq is recognized as one of the most affected countries by the harmful effects of climate change. Iraq ratified the Paris Agreement on January 14, 2021. In October 2021, the Government of Iraq (GoI) signed their first National Determined Contribution (NDC), which has been presented at the COP26. The Government of Iraq has requested UNDP support in implementation of the NDC, including through capacity development, advisory for sectoral planning and formulation of related strategies, frameworks, and instruments.&nbsp;</p><br> <p>UNDP is the knowledge frontier organization for sustainable development in the UN Development System and serves as the integrator for collective action to realize the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP's policy work carried out at HQ, Regional and Country Office levels offers a spectrum of deep local knowledge to cutting-edge global perspectives and advocacy. UNDP invests in the Global Policy Network (GPN), a network of field-based and global technical expertise across a wide range of knowledge domains in support of the signature solutions and organizational capabilities envisioned in UNDP's Strategic Plan.</p><br> <p>UNDP is an accredited Implementing Agency for the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Trust Fund and the family of funds such as the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF), the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF), and the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBBF). As an Implementing Agency, UNDP offers countries highly specialized services for eligibility assessment, project formulation and due diligence, co-financing mobilization, implementation oversight, results management and evaluation, and knowledge management.</p><br> <p>Iraq faces significant environmental and public health risks associated with persistent organic pollutants (POPs), hazardous chemicals, obsolete pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), unintentional POPs (UPOPs), industrial POPs (IPOPs), and chemically contaminated sites. Previous assessments identified substantial quantities of obsolete pesticides and potentially PCB-contaminated electrical equipment and highlighted significant technical and institutional capacity gaps in chemicals and contaminated-sites management.</p><br> <p>The Government of Iraq is a Party to major international chemicals and waste conventions, including the Stockholm, Basel, Rotterdam and Minamata Conventions. Iraq has previously developed a National Implementation Plan (NIP) under the Stockholm Convention; however, the existing NIP requires updating to reflect newly listed POPs, improved inventories, updated risk information, institutional developments and current national priorities.</p><br> <p>The Integrated Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Chemical Hotspots Management Project, therefore adopts an integrated approach combining:</p><br> <ul> <li>strengthening the national framework for POPs and hazardous chemicals management;</li> <li>updating the national POPs inventories and National Implementation Plan;</li> <li>strengthening laboratory, inspection, monitoring and institutional capacities;</li> <li>environmentally sound management and disposal of obsolete pesticides;</li> <li>management and disposal/phase-out of PCB-contaminated equipment, oils and waste; and</li> <li>assessment and remediation planning for priority chemical pollution hotspots.</li> </ul> <p>The project comprises three components. Component 1 focuses on improved management of POPs and hazardous chemicals; Component 2 focuses on high-risk POPs in the agriculture and power sectors; and Component 3 addresses chemical pollution hotspots and contaminated sites.</p><br> <p>Implementation will require extensive technical assistance, consultancy services, procurement of laboratory and field equipment, hazardous waste management services, capacity building, site assessments, remediation planning and policy/regulatory development.</p><br> <p>The project will be implemented by UNDP through an Output Agreement with the Ministry of Environment. The Project Manager will therefore be the principal day-to-day focal point for implementation and coordination within the project management structure.</p><br> <p><strong>Institutional Arrangement</strong></p><br> <p>The Project Manager will directly report to the Programme Specilaist with matrix reporting to the chief technical specialist of the Environment, Energy and Climate Change (EECC), UNDP Iraq. The position holder will be part of a dynamic team of national and international experts working on policy advocacy, capacity building, innovation and sharing best practices with national stakeholders on climate change, environmental management and POPs and Chemical Hotspots Management.</p><br> <p><strong>Duties and Responsibilities</strong></p><br> <p><strong>Provide Strategic Technical Direction and Leadership</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Lead strategic planning for the project as well as formulation and periodic revisions of the project’s annual work plan (AWP),&nbsp;including plans for budget, HR and procurement that are developed in close coordination with UNDP’s Country Office Programme, HR, and Procurement teams. Lead development of detailed implementation plans.&nbsp;</li> <li>Lead the provision of high-level strategic and technical guidance to the project, ensuring alignment with UNDP corporate priorities, donor requirements, national development frameworks, and relevant international commitments.</li> <li>Advise UNDP management and project stakeholders on emerging technical issues, risks, opportunities, and strategic approaches to enhance project impact, sustainability, and policy relevance.</li> <li>Oversee the overall technical quality of project outputs, deliverables, studies, assessments, and knowledge products to ensure compliance with international standards and best practices.</li> <li>Provide leadership in the identification, design, and implementation of innovative technical solutions and approaches that support the achievement of project objectives and intended outcomes.</li> <li>Guide the integration of cross-cutting issues, including gender equality, environmental sustainability, social inclusion, human rights, and capacity development, into project planning and implementation.</li> <li>Support adaptive management by recommending strategic adjustments based on implementation progress, lessons learned, and changing contextual circumstances.</li> <li>Provide direction, guidance, and direct supervision to UNDP project personnel. Undertake technical review of project documents produced by the project team and partners, and ensure high technical standards are met.&nbsp;</li> <li>Ensure proper execution of all administrative activities associated with project implementation, including mobilizing goods and services, preparing Terms of Reference, completing contracting processes, recruiting/selecting consultants and experts, and managing financial arrangements/transactions and their correct authorization.</li> <li>Identify opportunities for synergies with other projects within UNDP and beyond, to advance the key objectives and grow its focus.&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p><strong>Lead Technical Quality Assurance and Programme Oversight</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Provide technical review and quality assurance of project work plans, technical reports, procurement specifications, Terms of Reference, training materials, policy products, and other project deliverables.</li> <li>Ensure that project activities are implemented in accordance with approved project documents, UNDP rules and regulations, donor requirements, and national priorities.</li> <li>Support the technical teams in maintaining high standards of project delivery, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness.</li> <li>Review technical outputs developed by consultants, contractors, service providers, and implementing partners and provide recommendations for improvement where necessary.</li> <li>Ensure consistency and coherence across project components and interventions to maximise results and avoid duplication of efforts.</li> <li>Provide technical support to the implementing partners and act as a liaison between UNDP and the partners.&nbsp;</li> <li>Support&nbsp;resource&nbsp;mobilization&nbsp;efforts&nbsp;and&nbsp;project&nbsp;development.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Support Strategic Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Facilitate technical dialogue and collaboration between UNDP, government institutions, development partners, academia, civil society organisations, and private sector stakeholders.&nbsp;</li> <li>Provide technical advice and support to implementing partners to strengthen ownership, coordination, and effective project implementation.&nbsp;</li> <li>Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships, resource mobilisation, and collaboration that can enhance project sustainability and scale-up successful interventions.&nbsp;</li> <li>Represent the project and provide technical inputs during meetings, workshops, consultations, conferences, and policy dialogues as required.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Monitor and report on progress in implementing project activities and achieving the targets set.</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Provide leadership and technical advice to the project in developing baselines and indicators for project monitoring and evaluation and coordinate the finalization of detailed results framework. Develop clear strategies and an effective system for data collection, means of verification, and information sharing and reporting.&nbsp;</li> <li>Lead the implementation of project monitoring, evaluation, and results framework to identify plan deviations and other problems; and make needed course corrections within agreed upon tolerances to achieve results. Conduct field visits as required to verify project activities relative to stated targets and provide regular field updates to UNDP management.&nbsp;</li> <li>Lead the development and conduct of mid-term and annual reviews, and end line assessment; and coordinate the conduct of independent evaluations. Organize project review and evaluation meetings. Follow up on the implementation of decisions, recommendations, and course corrections.</li> <li>Manage and monitor project risks, including social and environmental risks, initially identified and submit new risks to appropriate project governing bodies for consideration and decision on possible actions.&nbsp;</li> <li>Coordinate the preparation of corporate, donor and government reports in line with the reporting schedule and UNDP and donor requirements. Ensure provision of ad hoc reports and information requested by relevant entities.&nbsp;</li> <li>Ensure proper operational and financial closure of the project.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Facilitate knowledge and capacity building, knowledge sharing, and advocacy relevant to the assigned thematic areas.</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Provide technical guidance for the development and refinement of project indicators, monitoring frameworks, and reporting tools.</li> <li>Review project progress and results regularly and provide recommendations to address implementation challenges and improve performance.</li> <li>Contribute to the documentation of lessons learned, good practices, case studies, and knowledge products to support institutional learning and replication of successful approaches.</li> <li>Lead and support capacity-building initiatives, technical trainings, workshops, and knowledge-sharing activities for project staff, government counterparts, and stakeholders.</li> <li>Promote knowledge exchange and contribute to relevant communities of practice, technical networks, and learning platforms.</li> </ul> <p><strong>The incumbent performs other duties within their functional profile as deemed necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.</strong></p><br> <p><strong>Competencies</strong></p><br> <p><strong>Core</strong></p><br> <ul> <li><strong>Achieve Results: </strong>LEVEL 3: Set and align challenging, achievable objectives for multiple projects, have lasting impact</li> <li><strong>Think Innovatively: </strong>LEVEL 3: Proactively mitigate potential risks, develop new ideas to solve complex problems</li> <li><strong>Learn Continuously: </strong>LEVEL 3: Create and act on opportunities to expand horizons, diversify experiences</li> <li><strong>Adapt with Agility: </strong>LEVEL 3: Proactively initiate and champion change, manage multiple competing demands</li> <li><strong>Act with Determination: </strong>LEVEL 3: Think beyond immediate task/barriers and take action to achieve greater results</li> <li><strong>Engage and Partner: </strong>LEVEL 3: Political savvy, navigate complex landscape, champion inter-agency collaboration</li> <li><strong>Enable Diversity and Inclusion: </strong>LEVEL 3: Appreciate benefits of diverse workforce and champion inclusivity</li> <li><strong>People Management: </strong>UNDP People Management Competencies can be found in the dedicated site.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Cross-Functional &amp; Technical competencies</strong></p><br> <p><strong><u>Business Direction &amp; Strategy</u></strong></p><br> <ul> <li><strong>System Thinking</strong> <ul> <li>Ability to use objective problem analysis and judgement to understand how interrelated elements coexist within an overall process or system, and to consider how altering one element can impact on other parts of the system</li> </ul></li> </ul> <p><strong><u>2030 Agenda: Planet</u></strong></p><br> <ul> <li><strong>Nature</strong> <ul> <li>Environmental Governance: Global Environmental Governance</li> </ul></li> </ul> <p><strong><u>Finance</u></strong></p><br> <ul> <li><strong>Budget Management</strong> <ul> <li>Ability to support budgetary aspects of work planning process, drawing and management of team budgets.</li> </ul></li> </ul> <p><strong><u>Business Direction &amp; Strategy</u></strong></p><br> <ul> <li><strong>Effective Decision Making</strong> <ul> <li>Take decisions in a timely and efficient manner in line with one’s authority, area of expertise and resources.</li> </ul></li> <li><strong>Negotiation and influence</strong> <ul> <li>Reach an understanding, persuade others, resolve points of difference, gain advantage in the outcome of dialogue, negotiate mutually acceptable solutions through compromise, and create win-win situations.</li> </ul></li> </ul> <p><strong><u>Business Management</u></strong></p><br> <ul> <li><strong>Project management</strong> <ul> <li>Ability to plan, organize, prioritize, and control resources, procedures, and protocols to achieve specific goals.</li> </ul></li> <li><strong>Risk management</strong> <ul> <li>Identify and organize action around mitigating and proactively managing risks</li> </ul></li> </ul> <p><strong>Minimum Qualifications of the Successful NPSA</strong></p><br> <p><strong>Minimum Education requirements</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Environmental Management, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Natural Resources Management, Development Studies, Project Management or a relevant related field is required, OR</li> <li>A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree) in the above fields in combination with two additional years of relevant experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree</li> </ul> <p><strong>Minimum years of relevant work experience</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Minimum 5 years (with master’s degree) or 7 years (with bachelor’s degree) of progressively responsible professional experience at the national or international level in environmental management, chemicals and waste management, climate change and biodiversity, natural resources management, environmental safeguards, environmental policy and governance, and project management is required.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Required skills</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Demonstrated experience in project management, preferably in environmental, chemicals, hazardous waste, climate, natural resources or sustainable development projects.</li> <li>Demonstrated experience managing multidisciplinary teams and consultants.</li> <li>Experience managing projects involving Government institutions and international development partners.</li> <li>Proven Experience in the use of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc) and advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, and experience in handling web-based management systems</li> </ul> <p><strong>Desired skills in addition to the competencies covered in the Competencies section</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Experience in working, liaising, and collaborating with UN agencies, governments, NGOs, civil society organizations, and public international organizations.</li> <li>Proven knowledge of capacity building theory and capacity building/assessment methodologies</li> </ul> <p><strong>Required Language(s)</strong></p><br> <ul> <li>Fluency in written and spoken English and Arabic is required.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Equal opportunity</strong></p><br> <p>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.&nbsp;</p><br> <p>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.</p><br> <p><strong>Sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse of authority</strong></p><br> <p>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.&nbsp;</p><br> <p><strong>Right to select multiple candidates</strong></p><br> <p>UNDP reserves the ri</p> </div>