UNDP is Hiring a Project Coordinator to Lead Innovative Agriculture and Climate Adaptation Project in Zimbabwe

UNDP Seeks Project Coordinator for Drought Response Initiative

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is calling for qualified professionals to apply for the position of Project Coordinator in Harare, Zimbabwe. This full-time role, open under a National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-10), forms part of a collaborative initiative between UNDP and the Embassy of Japan aimed at enhancing climate resilience in Zimbabwe’s rural communities affected by the 2023–2024 El Niño-induced drought.

About the Role

The Project Coordinator will spearhead the implementation of a targeted agricultural resilience project in the Chivi and Mwenezi districts, focusing on boosting food security through the production of drought-resistant crops, the adoption of innovative crop protection methods, and climate-smart agricultural practices. With a contract duration of one year, the role offers a dynamic platform for a proactive, strategic leader to support sustainable development and rural livelihoods.

Key Responsibilities

The Project Coordinator will oversee the effective delivery of project objectives through close supervision of a subcontracted NGO, financial oversight, and technical support. Specific duties include:

Project Administration: Ensure timely, efficient, and quality implementation of activities in coordination with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development.
Financial Management: Monitor budgets, ensure financial compliance, and support reporting processes.
Technical Guidance: Offer expertise in climate resilience and market-oriented agriculture using the Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment & Promotion (SHEP) approach.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Collaborate with the M&E Officer on data analysis, outcome tracking, and adaptive management.
Stakeholder Engagement: Facilitate coordination with community leaders, government bodies, and policy stakeholders.
Communications: Develop reports, success stories, and knowledge products to share project impact and promote learning.

The Coordinator will also be responsible for convening quarterly Project Steering Committee meetings to review performance, resolve implementation challenges, and align efforts with national development priorities.

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Required Qualifications

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Education: A Master’s degree in Agricultural Management, Agricultural Economics, Finance, or a related field with 5 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree with 7 years of experience will be considered.
Experience: Demonstrated leadership in environment, biodiversity, or natural resources management projects. Familiarity with supervising teams, handling web-based systems, and delivering technical assessments is expected.
Language Proficiency: Fluency in English and Shona or Ndebele is essential.

Experience with UNDP or other international organizations, and expertise in environmental policy and budget management, are advantageous.

Institutional Support

The Project Coordinator will report to the Nature, Climate, and Energy Team Leader at UNDP and liaise regularly with the Ministry of Lands, ensuring seamless alignment with national strategies. The role demands a systems-thinking approach, innovative problem-solving, and agility in coordinating diverse stakeholder interests.

Commitment to Inclusion and Integrity

UNDP is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable work environment. As an equal opportunity employer, it encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. All candidates undergo a rigorous vetting process to uphold UNDP’s core values of integrity, inclusivity, and respect for human dignity.