Port Vila, Efate
NATIONAL CHIEF TECHNICAL ADVISOR (CTA) / NATIONAL PROJECT COORDINATOR
Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC) • Contract
VACANCY NOTICE
NATIONAL CHIEF TECHNICAL ADVISOR (CTA) / NATIONAL PROJECT COORDINATOR
Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC)
Project Duration: 2026 – 2030
Duty Station: Port Vila, with frequent travel to project sites (Erromango, Ambae, Malo and Vanua Lava)
Salary Scale: PS 8.6
ABOUT THE PROJECT
The Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC) is implementing the GEF-8 Project: “Restoring and Protecting Biodiversity, Coastal Landscapes, and Climate Change Resilience through Nature-Based Solutions, Women and Youth Entrepreneurship.”
This four-year initiative aims to strengthen biodiversity conservation, enhance climate resilience, and promote sustainable livelihoods through nature-based solutions across selected islands of Vanuatu.
To support the successful implementation of this project, DEPC invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced Ni-Vanuatu candidates for the position of: NATIONAL CHIEF TECHNICAL ADVISOR (CTA)
POSITION PURPOSE
The National Chief Technical Advisor (CTA) will provide overall leadership, coordination, and technical guidance for the implementation of the GEF-8 project. The CTA will work under the supervision of the National Project Director and guidance of the Project Steering Committee, while coordinating closely with government agencies, development partners, communities, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
The successful candidate will:
- Lead the overall implementation and coordination of project activities.
- Organize and support Project Steering Committee meetings and stakeholder consultations.
- Provide technical advisory support and ensure activities are incorporated into Annual Work Plans and Budgets.
- Coordinate implementation across all project sites.
- Supervise project staff and oversee consultants and technical experts.
- Lead stakeholder training and capacity-building initiatives.
- Support the establishment, expansion, and improved management of Protected Areas.
- Ensure project activities are delivered on time and within budget.
- Prepare technical, financial, quarterly, annual, interim, and final project reports.
- Coordinate monitoring, evaluation, and reporting requirements with FAO and GEF.
- Facilitate communication and collaboration among government agencies, communities, and development partners.
- Ensure effective management of project resources and co-financing arrangements.
- Undertake any other duties as assigned by DEPC.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Applicants must possess:
- Degree in Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Life Sciences, or a related field (Postgraduate qualification highly desirable).
- At least 7–10 years of demonstrated experience in project management and implementation, particularly in:
- Sustainable Forest Management (SFM)
- Sustainable Land Management (SLM)
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Environmental Management
- Strong understanding of community engagement, customary land issues, and stakeholder coordination.
- Experience in managing donor-funded projects, preferably GEF funded projects.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Bislama.
- Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Strong leadership and team management skills.
- High standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
- Ability to work independently and under pressure.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Cultural awareness and sensitivity.
- Ability to build effective partnerships with government agencies, communities, and development partners.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit:
- Application Letter;
- Current Curriculum Vitae (CV);
- Certified copies of qualifications;
- Two professional referees; and
- Any other supporting documents.
Applications should be addressed to:
The Director
Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation
Port Vila, Vanuatu and send application to
Email : omelenamu@vanuatu.gov.vu
Closing Date : Friday 21st August 2026
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
The Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified women and men are strongly encouraged to apply.
“Contributing to a resilient and sustainable Vanuatu through biodiversity conservation and nature-based solutions.”
Requirements
- Lead the overall implementation and coordination of project activities.
- Organize and support Project Steering Committee meetings and stakeholder consultations.
- Provide technical advisory support and ensure activities are incorporated into Annual Work Plans and Budgets.
- Coordinate implementation across all project sites.
- Supervise project staff and oversee consultants and technical experts.
- Lead stakeholder training and capacity-building initiatives.
- Support the establishment, expansion, and improved management of Protected Areas.
- Ensure project activities are delivered on time and within budget.
- Prepare technical, financial, quarterly, annual, interim, and final project reports.
- Coordinate monitoring, evaluation, and reporting requirements with FAO and GEF.
- Facilitate communication and collaboration among government agencies, communities, and development partners.
- Ensure effective management of project resources and co-financing arrangements.
- Undertake any other duties as assigned by DEPC.
- Degree in Forestry, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Life Sciences, or a related field (Postgraduate qualification highly desirable).
- At least 7–10 years of demonstrated experience in project management and implementation, particularly in: