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UNESCO is Hiring for Project Coordinator (Multiple Positions Available)

Eugen2 weeks ago

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In an exciting development for professionals passionate about environmental conservation and sustainable land management, UNESCO has announced a vacancy for a Project Coordinator based in Pretoria, South Africa. This position is integral to the organization’s efforts to restore landscapes, promote biodiversity, and support climate resilience across South Africa’s diverse ecosystems.

About the Role

The successful candidate will join UNESCO’s team as part of the Restoring Landscapes in South Africa (ReLISA) project, a flagship initiative funded by the Government of Germany. Running from November 2024 to October 2029, ReLISA aims to demonstrate the economic, social, and environmental benefits of landscape-level restoration, fostering a just transition within South Africa’s land-use sector.

The core objective of the project is to bolster climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and rural livelihoods by implementing nature-based solutions across key biomes such as thicket, grassland, and savanna. The Project Coordinator will play a vital role in ensuring the project’s smooth implementation, overseeing technical activities, fostering partnerships, and communicating progress to stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Implementation and Coordination

Oversee the daily management of UNESCO’s component of the ReLISA project, ensuring targets and results are achieved.
Coordinate efforts with the project lead agency, UNEP, and other consortium partners to facilitate seamless execution.
Develop detailed annual work plans, procurement strategies, and risk management procedures aligned with project goals.
Support on-the-ground activities, including landscape restoration demonstration projects and the design of water funds in savanna biosphere reserves.
Conduct field visits, prepare bi-annual progress reports, and ensure compliance with donor requirements.

2. Technical Leadership and Support

Provide expert guidance in hydrology and landscape management to support project activities.
Assist in expanding biosphere reserves to enhance landscape integrity and develop monitoring indicators for landscape health.
Support the development of pre-feasibility studies and bankable investment projects to attract private sector funding.

3. Representation and Communication

Represent UNESCO at national and regional events, forums, and stakeholder meetings.
Develop communication materials like infographics, policy briefs, and multimedia content to showcase project achievements.
Promote the project’s objectives and outcomes at international platforms such as the Global Landscapes Forum, COP meetings, and CBD conferences.

Qualifications and Skills

Candidates for this position should have:

A Master’s degree or higher in Water Resources Management, Earth Sciences, or related natural sciences fields.
At least two years of experience in project coordination, natural sciences, or environmental management.
Proven skills in strategic planning, results-based management, and partnership development.
Strong data analysis, reporting, and communication abilities, with proficiency in MS Office tools.
Excellent interpersonal skills, tact, and diplomacy to foster collaboration across diverse stakeholders.
Fluency in English, with knowledge of local languages considered a plus.

Desirable Attributes

A Ph.D. or advanced degree in relevant fields, with additional training in project management or environmental assessment.
Familiarity with UN agencies, international landscape programs, or regional natural resource initiatives in Southern Africa.
Ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities in a multicultural environment.

Contract Details

Duration: 1 year, with the possibility of extension based on funding and performance.
Location: Pretoria, with frequent travel to project sites.
Salary: Approximately ZAR 898,229 annually, inclusive of benefits such as leave, medical insurance, and pension.

Application Process

Interested South African nationals are encouraged to submit their applications via the UNESCO careers portal before the deadline on July 7, 2025. The selection process may include interviews, assessments, and reference checks. Qualified candidates will be contacted directly for next steps.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for environmental professionals committed to landscape restoration, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation. Working with UNESCO on the ReLISA project allows for meaningful contributions to South Africa’s ecological and socio-economic future, fostering sustainable development at landscape scales.

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