Chief Technical Specialist

About the role

The Chief Technical Specialist will provide senior technical leadership for the UNDP project accelerating Papua New Guinea's sustainable blue economy. The role supports strengthened governance and investment in marine areas, aligning with GEF‑8 Blue Green Islands objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Lead technical design and implementation of marine biodiversity and blue‑economy interventions.
• Provide expert advice on governance frameworks, policy development, and climate‑change adaptation for coastal and marine ecosystems.
• Oversee eligibility assessments, project formulation, due‑diligence reviews, and results management in line with GEF requirements.
• Coordinate with national authorities, NGOs, and UN partners to ensure effective stakeholder engagement.
• Produce knowledge products, reports, and guidance documents for internal and external audiences.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in marine science, environmental policy, sustainable development or a related field.
• Significant experience in blue‑economy or marine conservation projects, preferably within GEF or UN frameworks.
• Proven track record of managing complex, multi‑partner initiatives.
• Ability to work in a multicultural UN environment and communicate effectively in English.

Required skills

• Technical expertise in marine ecosystem assessment and governance.
• Familiarity with GEF project cycles, eligibility criteria, and compliance procedures.
• Strong analytical, reporting and knowledge‑management capabilities.

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence high‑impact marine conservation and sustainable development in PNG.
• Access to UNDP’s global policy network and professional development resources.
• Engagement with a diverse team of experts across UN agencies and partners.