Project Description
The Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG) Facility is a joint EU & UNDP initiative enters its third phase of implementation, 2025-2028. Since its first launch in 2017 by the European Union (EU) and, later re-introduction of the initiative in 2021 through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and key development partners’ involvement, the Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG) Facility has been empowering local authorities and communities in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine to explore and pursue innovative growth trajectories.
The initiative has successfully implemented various capability and grants programs, such as the Urban Learning Center (ULC), the Portfolio Journey, Urban Imaginaries, and Response and Renewal, which have provided short to medium-term support to local authorities in addressing economic stagnation, community well-being, and immediate crisis support.
While building on the successes and learnings of phase 2, the M4EG will continue to support municipalities in the EaP countries with new tools and practices to foster innovation, collaboration, and investment readiness to drive sustainable local economic growth.
Moldova’s energy-related challenges have escalated with the expiration of the gas transit contract and cessation of gas supply to the Transnistrian region at the beginning of January 2025. This situation led to widespread power outages on the left bank of the Nistru River, determining many essential public services (including heating, water and electricity supply) to reduce their operation, and businesses to temporarily shut down, further exacerbating socio-economic vulnerabilities.
Communities in the security zone, located on the left and right bank but under the control of the constitutional authorities, that do not have an interconnection to the right bank’s energy grid face compounded risks due to limited infrastructure and geopolitical sensitivities. There are 11 identified localities that are in the security zone and are most at risk due to their interconnection to Transnistrian region’s gas lines or electricity grids.
In response, this initiative seeks to enhance energy resilience in up to five strategically selected communities by integrating Energy Efficiency (EE) measures and Renewable Energy Sources (RES) into critical public infrastructure. Assistance offered under this crisis component would focus on supporting the long-term resilience of the local communities to ensure uninterrupted access to public services by reducing their energy consumption and/or transitioning to sustainable/alternative energy sources. Critical infrastructure supporting the delivery of public services, such as education, social or medical care, etc., will be prioritized for this intervention.
The overall objective of the initiative is to enhance energy resilience and sustainable development in Moldova's security zone communities by applying more efficient/alternative energy sources and strengthening their capacities and future crisis preparedness, aligned with M4EG’s systemic local economic development approach.
Scope of Work
The Project Analyst (Infrastructure) in close cooperation with the project team, under the direct guidance and supervision of the M4EG Project Manager, will ensure the provision of development services and products (commensurate with the scope of the Project) of the highest quality and standards to national counterparts and clients through applying HRBA and GE approaches. The Project Analyst applies and promotes the principles of results-based management (RBM), as well as a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations. The incumbent is expected to exercise full compliance with UNDP programming, financial, procurement and administrative rules, regulations, policies and strategies, as well as implementation of the effective internal control systems.
The overall objective is to provide technical assistance and actively support selected up to five communities from the security zone in the entire cycle of the implementation of the projects co-financed by the M4EG project. The effort will target integrating Energy Efficiency (EE) measures and Renewable Energy Sources (RES) into critical public infrastructure. More specifically, the Project Analyst shall:
Assume responsibility and ensure methodological assistance to target communities in preparation/endorsement of technical documentation for civic works. Support the M4EG Project’ Team to properly organize the construction/equipment procurement tenders. Assist and consult the local authorities in carrying out civil works, monitor contracts fulfillment, the quality and timeframe of the project’s implementation inclusive periodical field supervision of the quality of civil construction works. Solving technical issues that arise at the construction site during the execution of the works. Proper organization, documentation and official handing over of the construction sites to Contractors. Proper organization and documentation of the commissioning of the completed works, as well as final reception events. Conduct the final quality assurance of received works/services.Key Results:
The key results have a direct impact on the overall successful achievement of the M4EG Project. Accurate analysis and presentation of information enhances UNDP’s position as a strong development partner. The information provided facilitates decision-making of the Project Board, the Beneficiary and UNDP management.
Institutional Arrangement
Under the guidance and direct supervision of the M4EG Project Manager, the incumbent contributes to an effective and efficient implementation of M4EG Project component related to advancing Energy Resilience activities, through a range of actions contributing to the design, planning, management and monitoring of project activities.
The Project Analyst works in close collaboration with the Project team as well as the team in the Country Office (CO) for effective achievement of results, anticipating and contributing to resolving complex programme/project-related issues and information delivery.
Competencies
Core
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
Cross-Functional & Technical competencies
Business Management - Project Management:
Ability to plan, organize, prioritize and control resources, procedures and protocols to achieve specific goals.Business Management - Monitoring & Evaluation:
Ability to systematically monitor results of strategies, programmes, and activities with a view to make sure that they are being implemented effectively; Ability to provide managers and key stakeholders with regular feedback and reporting on the consistency or discrepancy between planned activities and programme management and results. Ability to make independent judgment of the management and results of strategies, programmes and activities based on set criteria and benchmark, keeping in mind the needs and concerns of client, current and upcoming. Knowledge and understanding of monitoring and evaluation frameworks, concepts, methodologies, systems, processes, and tools. Ability to make an independent judgement based on set criteria and benchmarks. Ability to anticipate client's upcoming needs and concerns.Business Management - 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.Business Management - Communication:
Ability to 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.Administration & Operations - Building, facilities & office space management:
Knowledge and ability to facilitate the renovation and upgrade of offices including review of complex engineering/architectural drawings; negotiate technical agreements to ensure fully operational building infrastructure and services; design policy & procedure (POPP) for premises and facilities including space standards; manage premises and facilities; validate financial statement notes on leasehold data.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-making2030 Agenda: Prosperity - Inclusive Growth:
Urban Community Infrastructure /AssetsRequired Skills and Experience
Education:
Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Civil Engineering/Construction, Public Administration, Business Administration, Economics or other related areas. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) in the areas mentioned above in combination with additional two years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of Master`s degree.Experience:
Applicants with a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field of study are not required to have professional work experience. Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) are required to have a minimum of two (2) years of progressive working experience at the national or international level in the areas of energy efficiency, community development/infrastructure rehabilitation work. Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and advance knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages, experience in handling of web based management systems. User knowledge of specialized software: WinSmeta 2000 etc.Additional desired skills and experience:
Previous experience in development assistance or related work for a donor organization, governmental institutions, NGO or private sector / consulting firm is a very strong advantage. Experience of work in the regions and/or in programmes financed by European Union is a very strong advantage. Working experience at the national or international level in the areas of energy efficiency, community development/infrastructure rehabilitation work.Required Language(s):
Fluency in Romanian and Russian is required. Knowledge of English is a distinct advantage. Working knowledge of one or more additional languages relevant for Moldova, including Bulgarian, Gagauzian, Romani, Ukrainian or sign language is an asset.Equal opportunity
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.
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