Project Associate
Job Description
Tiered Approach
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
Background
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.
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.
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 undp.org.
UNDP in Papua New Guinea prioritizes environmental sustainability, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk resilience under Outcome 4 of the UNDP Country Programme Document (2024–2028). Through this portfolio, UNDP supports the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) in strengthening climate resilience, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources while addressing the increasing risks posed by climate change and disasters. The programme contributes to PNG’s commitments under key international frameworks, including the Paris Agreement, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. In parallel, UNDP supports the integration of natural capital accounting and ecosystem valuation into national planning and fiscal decision-making to ensure that the economic value of ecosystems is properly recognized and safeguarded for long-term sustainable development.
The UNDP environment and climate change portfolio in Papua New Guinea (PNG) plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable resource management and climate resilience. Recognizing the increasing risks posed by climate change and natural hazards, UNDP is also strengthening the country’s disaster risk management and climate resilience systems. Papua New Guinea faces escalating exposure to floods, landslides, droughts, cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis, which threaten development gains and disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. In response, UNDP—working with the National Disaster Centre (NDC), National Weather Service (NWS), Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), and the Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazard Management (DMPGM)—is supporting the Government to modernize disaster governance, strengthen risk information systems, and develop sustainable disaster and climate risk financing mechanisms.
The Disaster Risk Management Bridging Phase Project aims to reduce loss of life, livelihoods, and development gains from disasters and climate shocks in Papua New Guinea by strengthening inclusive, risk-informed disaster risk management (DRM) systems. Aligned with UNSDCF Outcome 5, the initiative will enhance the capacity of national and subnational institutions to anticipate, prepare for, and manage multi-hazard and climate risks through improved governance frameworks, integrated risk information systems, and sustainable disaster risk financing mechanisms. The overall objective is to enable Papua New Guinea to move from reactive disaster response toward a proactive, coordinated, and resilience-focused approach that protects vulnerable communities and safeguards development progress.
The project is structured around three interlinked outputs. First, it will strengthen legal and institutional frameworks for DRM by supporting the operationalization of the forthcoming National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Act and Policy. This includes developing regulations, standard operating procedures, and coordination protocols, clarifying roles and responsibilities across national and subnational levels, and building institutional capacities. A strong emphasis will be placed on integrating gender equality, disability inclusion, and human rights considerations into disaster governance systems.
Second, the programme will establish a unified digital risk information system through the development of a National Risk Registry (NRR). This platform will integrate hazard, climate, exposure, and socio-economic datasets into a comprehensive and interoperable system accessible to decision-makers across government agencies. By strengthening data sharing, geospatial analysis, and real-time risk monitoring, the NRR will improve multi-hazard early warning systems and support evidence-based planning, preparedness, and response at both national and provincial levels.
Third, the programme will support the development of predictable and inclusive disaster risk financing mechanisms. This includes assessing existing public financial management systems for disaster risk management, designing a risk-layered financing framework, and strengthening coordination between the National Disaster Centre and fiscal authorities such as the Department of Treasury and Department of Finance. The programme will also explore innovative and inclusive financing solutions—such as microinsurance, parametric insurance, and community contingency funds—to support preparedness, early action, and resilient recovery.
Implemented by UNDP in partnership with the National Disaster Centre and key government institutions, and supported by partners such as the Government of Australia, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Geoscience Australia, and development finance institutions, the initiative will strengthen Papua New Guinea’s institutional capacity, data systems, and financial architecture for disaster resilience. Ultimately, the programme will contribute to building a more resilient, inclusive, and climate-secure Papua New Guinea, where communities and institutions are better equipped to manage disaster and climate risks.
Duties And Responsibilities
The Project Associate works under the general supervision of Disaster Risk Management Specialist and collaborates closely with the project unit, environment programme team and operations team for the implementation of the project.
Support the project team to ensure effective project planning and implementation.
Competencies
Core Competencies
Business Management
Required Skills and Experience
Experience in preparation of financial reports and overviews
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.
Use of AI by candidates
Applicants are invited to read UNDP’s guidance for candidates on using AI responsibly in UNDP recruitment and selection
Scam alert
UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information, please see www.undp.org/scam-alert.
Tiered Approach
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
- Tier 0: 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.
- Tier 1: Other UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding permanent (PA) and fixed-term (FTA) appointments
- Tier 2: UNDP/UNCDF/UNV staff holding temporary appointments (TA), personnel on regular PSA contracts, and Expert and Specialist UN Volunteers
- Tier 3 or no tier indicated: All other contract types from UNDP/UNCDF/UNV and other agencies, and other external candidates
Background
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.
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.
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 undp.org.
UNDP in Papua New Guinea prioritizes environmental sustainability, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk resilience under Outcome 4 of the UNDP Country Programme Document (2024–2028). Through this portfolio, UNDP supports the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) in strengthening climate resilience, protecting biodiversity, and promoting sustainable management of natural resources while addressing the increasing risks posed by climate change and disasters. The programme contributes to PNG’s commitments under key international frameworks, including the Paris Agreement, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. In parallel, UNDP supports the integration of natural capital accounting and ecosystem valuation into national planning and fiscal decision-making to ensure that the economic value of ecosystems is properly recognized and safeguarded for long-term sustainable development.
The UNDP environment and climate change portfolio in Papua New Guinea (PNG) plays a crucial role in advancing sustainable resource management and climate resilience. Recognizing the increasing risks posed by climate change and natural hazards, UNDP is also strengthening the country’s disaster risk management and climate resilience systems. Papua New Guinea faces escalating exposure to floods, landslides, droughts, cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis, which threaten development gains and disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. In response, UNDP—working with the National Disaster Centre (NDC), National Weather Service (NWS), Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), and the Department of Mineral Policy and Geohazard Management (DMPGM)—is supporting the Government to modernize disaster governance, strengthen risk information systems, and develop sustainable disaster and climate risk financing mechanisms.
The Disaster Risk Management Bridging Phase Project aims to reduce loss of life, livelihoods, and development gains from disasters and climate shocks in Papua New Guinea by strengthening inclusive, risk-informed disaster risk management (DRM) systems. Aligned with UNSDCF Outcome 5, the initiative will enhance the capacity of national and subnational institutions to anticipate, prepare for, and manage multi-hazard and climate risks through improved governance frameworks, integrated risk information systems, and sustainable disaster risk financing mechanisms. The overall objective is to enable Papua New Guinea to move from reactive disaster response toward a proactive, coordinated, and resilience-focused approach that protects vulnerable communities and safeguards development progress.
The project is structured around three interlinked outputs. First, it will strengthen legal and institutional frameworks for DRM by supporting the operationalization of the forthcoming National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Act and Policy. This includes developing regulations, standard operating procedures, and coordination protocols, clarifying roles and responsibilities across national and subnational levels, and building institutional capacities. A strong emphasis will be placed on integrating gender equality, disability inclusion, and human rights considerations into disaster governance systems.
Second, the programme will establish a unified digital risk information system through the development of a National Risk Registry (NRR). This platform will integrate hazard, climate, exposure, and socio-economic datasets into a comprehensive and interoperable system accessible to decision-makers across government agencies. By strengthening data sharing, geospatial analysis, and real-time risk monitoring, the NRR will improve multi-hazard early warning systems and support evidence-based planning, preparedness, and response at both national and provincial levels.
Third, the programme will support the development of predictable and inclusive disaster risk financing mechanisms. This includes assessing existing public financial management systems for disaster risk management, designing a risk-layered financing framework, and strengthening coordination between the National Disaster Centre and fiscal authorities such as the Department of Treasury and Department of Finance. The programme will also explore innovative and inclusive financing solutions—such as microinsurance, parametric insurance, and community contingency funds—to support preparedness, early action, and resilient recovery.
Implemented by UNDP in partnership with the National Disaster Centre and key government institutions, and supported by partners such as the Government of Australia, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, Geoscience Australia, and development finance institutions, the initiative will strengthen Papua New Guinea’s institutional capacity, data systems, and financial architecture for disaster resilience. Ultimately, the programme will contribute to building a more resilient, inclusive, and climate-secure Papua New Guinea, where communities and institutions are better equipped to manage disaster and climate risks.
Duties And Responsibilities
The Project Associate works under the general supervision of Disaster Risk Management Specialist and collaborates closely with the project unit, environment programme team and operations team for the implementation of the project.
Support the project team to ensure effective project planning and implementation.
- Compile and summarize information and data for the formulation of project work plans, draft annual/quarterly budgets, proposals on implementation arrangements, and on other specific project related topics or issues.
- Provide comprehensive support in all aspects of project implementation in accordance with the project documents, annual work plans and other agreements between UNDP and responsible partners. Ensure quality of delivery by consultants, beneficiaries, and contracted companies; and communicate findings to the supervisor.
- Ensure compliance of project business processes with UNDP Project Operational Policies and Procedures (POPP) and UNDP Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). When necessary, provide guidance to project staff on business processes, administrative and other requirements and procedures.
- Support mainstreaming gender equality in the project implementation, including in data collection and compilation. Prepare gender equality background materials for use in discussions, briefings, and correspondence.
- Provide administrative and logistical support to ensure successful project delivery that includes organizing/coordinating project events and selecting appropriate venues, coordinating project procurement procedures, maintaining project records and files, recruiting project team members, and supporting contracting activities.
- Establish and maintain contacts and cooperation with the relevant UN Agencies, government institutions, NGOs, tertiary institutions, partners, and other relevant stakeholders. Provide support in updating the database of the relevant public and development partners, and other stakeholders who are counterparts for the project.
- Ensure regular communication and coordination with partners, project counterparts, stakeholders, and beneficiaries; and develop and maintain effective mechanisms for integrating and responding to their feedback and insight.
- Support creation of high-quality information and visibility of the project activities among the stakeholders; and ensure careful selection of communication tools and tailoring the messages to take into account the overall socio-political and development context in host countries.
- Undertake horizon scanning and explore opportunities for resource mobilization in consultation with direct supervisor.
- Support implementation of the project monitoring system in alignment with its Monitoring and Evaluation framework to ensure effective information sharing, provision of feedback, and elaboration of high-quality progress reports.
- Collect, analyze and present information for monitoring and evaluation of project implementation against project targets as well as for audit purposes. Identify gaps in implementation and provide support in bridging those gaps in consultation with supervisor and partners.
- Assist in the organization of field and study visits, missions, workshops, roundtables, and conferences within the project.
- Assist in implementation of effective risk management for the project with a well-documented risk mitigation plan in place. Support monitoring of previously identified and emerging risks.
- Regularly monitor expenditures and commitments against the project budget and relevant plans, and provide finance-related information to support project implementation. When necessary, recommend corrective actions and draft various correspondence concerning finance, operations, and budgetary issues.
- Prepare and consolidate required project reports on a timely basis and in line with monitoring and reporting guidelines and donor requirements.
- Participate in training and organize briefings on internal procedures for the project staff. Provide support to other capacity building activities, including to the design and delivery of tools, materials for workshops, or platforms that tap into the collective intelligence of communities and mobilize action.
- Provide support in the dissemination and sharing of relevant data and lessons learned within the CO and regionally. Keep pulse on emerging best practices nationally, regionally, and internationally that relate to the work of the assigned project.
- Make sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice. Support compiling and systematizing project knowledge, products and tools as well as their wide distribution to partners.
Competencies
Core Competencies
- Achieve Results: Level 1: Plans and monitors own work, pays attention to details, delivers quality work by deadline
- Think Innovatively: Level 1: Open to creative ideas/known risks, is pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements
- Learn Continuously: Level 1: Open minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback
- Adapt with Agility: Level 1: Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible
- Act with Determination: Level 1: Shows drive and motivation, able to deliver calmly in face of adversity, confident
- Engage and Partner: Level 1: Demonstrates compassion/understanding towards others, forms positive relationships
- Enable Diversity and Inclusion: Level 1: Appreciate/respect differences, aware of unconscious bias, confront discrimination
Business Management
- Working with Evidence and Data: Ability to inspect, cleanse, transform and model data with the goal of discovering useful information, informing conclusions, and supporting decision-making
- Digital Awareness and Literacy: Ability to monitor new and emerging technologies, as well as understand their usage, potential, limitations, impact, and added value. Ability to rapidly and readily adopt and use new technologies in professional activities, and to empower others to use them as needed. Knowledge of the usage of digital technologies and emerging trends.
- Customer Satisfaction/Client Management: Ability to respond timely and appropriately with a sense of urgency, provide consistent solutions, and deliver timely and quality results and/or solutions to fulfil and understand the real customers' needs. Provide inputs to the development of customer service strategy. Look for ways to add value beyond clients' immediate requests. Ability to anticipate client's upcoming needs and concerns.
- Communication: Communicate in a clear, concise and unambiguous manner both through written and verbal communication; to tailor messages and choose communication methods depending on the audience. Ability to manage communications internally and externally, through media, social media and other appropriate channels.
- Operations Management: Ability to effectively plan, organise and oversee different parts of corporate operations, simultaneously and in an integrated way, in order to convert the organisation’s assets into the best results in the most efficient way. Knowledge of relevant concepts and mechanisms
- Budget management: Ability to support budgetary aspects of work planning process, drawing and management of team budgets
- Procurement management: The ability to acquire goods, services or works from an outside external source
Required Skills and Experience
- Secondary education is required. OR
- University Degree (bachelor´s degree) in Business Administration, Public Administration, or equivalent field will be given due consideration, but it is not a requirement.
- A minimum of 7 years (with secondary education) or 4 years (with bachelor’s degree) of progressively responsible administrative or project experience is required.
- Experience in the use of computers, office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and web-based management systems, and advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages.
Experience in preparation of financial reports and overviews
- Experience in monitoring and evaluation tools
- Experience in project management processes
- Experience procurement procedures of national / international organizations
- Fluency in English and Tok Pisin is required
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.
Use of AI by candidates
Applicants are invited to read UNDP’s guidance for candidates on using AI responsibly in UNDP recruitment and selection
Scam alert
UNDP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process. For further information, please see www.undp.org/scam-alert.