National Project Associate

​Requisition ID: 3654 
Grade: SB4 – Local Professional (Junior & Mid Level) 
Country: India 
Duty Station: New Delhi 
Category: National Consultant 
Type of Job Posting: Internal and External
Employment Type: NonStaff-Regular
Contract Duration: 6 months (with the possibility of extension)
Application deadline: 12-Jun-2024, 11:59 PM (CEST)  

 

Vacancy Announcement
TEMPORARY APPOINTMENT OF PROJECT PERSONNEL
Only nationals or permanent residents of the country of the duty station are considered eligible.
Female candidates are encouraged to apply.
 

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is the specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization and environmental sustainability. The mission of UNIDO, as described in the Lima Declaration adopted at the fifteenth session of the UNIDO General Conference in 2013 as well as the Abu Dhabi Declaration adopted at the eighteenth session of UNIDO General Conference in 2019, is to promote and accelerate inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID) in Member States. The relevance of ISID as an integrated approach to all three pillars of sustainable development is recognized by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which will frame United Nations and country efforts towards sustainable development. UNIDO’s mandate is fully recognized in SDG-9, which calls to “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation”. The relevance of ISID, however, applies in greater or lesser extent to all SDGs. Accordingly, the Organization’s programmatic focus is structured in four strategic priorities: Creating shared prosperity; Advancing economic competitiveness; Safeguarding the environment; and Strengthening knowledge and institutions.

Each of these programmatic fields of activity contains a number of individual programmes, which are implemented in a holistic manner to achieve effective outcomes and impacts through UNIDO’s four enabling functions: (i) technical cooperation; (ii) analytical and research functions and policy advisory services; (iii) normative functions and standards and quality-related activities; and (iv) convening and partnerships for knowledge transfer, networking and industrial cooperation. Such core functions are carried out in Divisions/Offices in its Headquarters, Regional Offices and Hubs and Country Offices.

The Directorate of Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Industrial Development (TCS), headed by a Managing Director, oversees the Organization’s development of capacities for industrial development as well as industrial policy advice, statistics and research activities and the Organization’s normative contribution to Member States and global development community in achieving the SDGs. The Directorate also ensures the application of strategies and interventions for sustainable industrial development related to Environment, Energy, SMEs, Competitiveness and Job creation, as well as Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence. Through coordination in-house and with Member States and industry stakeholders, it ensures that the services provided in these areas contribute toward effective and appropriate technical, business and policy solutions and are focused on results and on realizing any potential for scaling up and positioning UNIDO as a leading platform for industrial development in developing countries and global fora.

 

The responsibility of the Division of Decarbonization and Sustainable Energy (TCS/DSE) is to assist Member States in the transition to a sustainable energy future through the application of renewable energy solutions for productive uses, adoption of the efficient concepts of energy use by industry and the introduction of low-carbon technologies and processes. In transitioning to a sustainable energy future, the challenges of addressing energy poverty and climate change are an integral part of the Division’s activities, as is the dissemination of relevant knowledge and technologies and paths to plan, manage and finance the energy transition. It collaborates closely on relevant and converging issues with the Climate and Technology Partnerships Division (IET/CTP) and analytical and strategic matters with TCS/CPA and ODG/SPU.

 

This position is located under Energy Systems and Decarbonization Unit (TCS/DSE/ESD) focuses on promoting sustainable energy solutions and infrastructure for industrial development. It promotes industrial decarbonization through crosscutting solutions, such as optimized energy management systems and the deployment of renewable energy technologies. Bringing together the supply and demand side for disruptive energy solutions, both technical and business related, the Unit fosters transformative change on the system level driven by the convergence of key technologies such as distributed generation, digitization and storage. The Unit is also responsible for coordinating dialogues and partnerships at national, regional and global levels to promote disruptive energy solutions and shape policy change for this. Finally, the Unit positions UNIDO strategically in the global energy and climate change forums and coordinates the Global Network of Regional Sustainable Energy Centres and related partnerships.

 

PROJECT CONTEXT

 

Project (SAP ID 130149) – Promoting business models for increasing penetration and scaling up of solar energy in India

UNIDO, with funding support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), is implementing a project aimed at promoting, demonstrating, and scaling up the application of concentrated solar thermal (CST) technologies for process heating in the manufacturing sector in India. CST harnesses solar radiation to generate heat applicable for various manufacturing, industrial, and utility processes. Significant accomplishments include the development and publication of knowledge products, such as CST mapping against industrial processes, CST roadmap, and CST technology packages. Policy reviews covering relevant regulations, building codes, domestic manufacturing, awareness raising, and enabling activities have also been undertaken. Demonstrations projects in silk reeling and pharmaceutical sectors have been installed, with Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) prepared for 12 other CST plants and support provided for 13 additional CSP application projects nationwide in the dairy sector.

 

The project, initially executed through the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) from 2015 to 2021, is now under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) since 2022. The focus has shifted to CST applications in MSME manufacturing units in clusters such as Ankleshwar, Jorhat, Medak, Surat, and Vellore. In 2023, the project expanded to include clusters in Goa, Bidar, Mysuru, Bangalore, Panipat, and Ranipet. The collaboration between UNIDO and MoMSME involves working with ten target clusters for the demonstration and scaling up of energy-efficient technologies. The project is ongoing, and new clusters are continually explored for the promotion and adaptation of CST technologies in process heating applications.

 

For detailed information on the ten target clusters and the project’s main components, please visit: https://www.isid4india.org/promoting-market.php

 

Components	Description
Component 1: Policy and Institutional framework	A comprehensive set of suggestions and directives intended for policymakers, aiming to enhance decision-making and facilitate the expanded adoption of solar technology in industrial thermal and cooling applications. The objective is to fortify the policy and institutional framework by identifying technical and financial gaps and constraints in harnessing the potential of concentrated solar (CS) applications in industries. The recommendations also encompass the proposal of advantageous financial and promotional policies and strategies, with the ultimate goal of encouraging the widespread utilization of CS technologies for process steam applications.
Component 2: Technology investment and application	Elaborate technical specifications related to the identified technologies intended for use in process heat applications. Formulated concentrated solar thermal (CST) technology packages and guidelines. Conducted pilot demonstrations of CST for diverse industrial applications. Within this component, in-depth technical specifications, performance benchmarks, and guidelines for integrating the most suitable concentrated solar technology into industries for medium-temperature applications will be developed. Demonstrations will be executed for the most promising technologies in selected industrial sectors, showcasing both the technical and financial viability of these technologies.
Component 3: Scale up	Replication projects successfully installed and in operation. Established business models and a financing facility to facilitate the effective expansion of various technologies studied. Secured the supply of high-quality system components for solar energy technologies by creating standards and a certification framework. Following the realization of demonstration projects, this component plays a crucial role in expediting scaling up through the creation of a project pipeline, leveraging insights gained from the technology component. It involves the establishment of a financing facility and the formulation or modification of concentrated solar thermal (CST) component standards. The process of learning from demonstration units, through detailed reports and performance feedback, contributes to the refinement and optimization of technologies and processes. The widespread adoption of solar technology in industrial processes aims to foster the growth of the solar technology market and achieve economies of scale.
Component 4 : Awareness and capacity building.	Trained manufacturers, vendors, and installers. Conducted targeted workshops to enhance awareness within the business community. Strengthened technical capacity through the promotion of partnerships between industry and academia. Documented project outputs, case studies, best practices, and lessons learned for widespread dissemination to facilitate larger replication. This component aims to bolster the capabilities of key stakeholders in targeted industries, documenting best practices at both national and international levels in concentrated solar thermal (CST) applications. This documentation serves to bridge the existing gap between research and current industrial usage levels. Given that a lack of awareness poses a significant hurdle to the adoption of solar technologies in industry, awareness programs will be conducted among industry professionals, policymakers, academics, financial institutions, entrepreneurs, and industry associations through various channels such as workshops, conferences, training programs, and media campaigns. Additionally, this component will actively support research initiatives, foster networking, and encourage international cooperation to facilitate technology transfer, information sharing, and the dissemination of best practices.

 

The details of the project brief are given in the FIC-ISID website (see: https://www.isid4india.org/solar–energy.php).

 

FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

 

Under the direct supervision of the Project Manager and the National Project Coordinator and in close cooperation with the project team in the HQ and field location, the National Project Associate will be responsible for the following main tasks:

 

MAIN DUTIES	CONCRETE/ MEASURABLE OUTPUTS TO BE ACHIEVED
Assist in compilation of training materials and arrangement of training programs for CST applications in process heating and cooling within MSME sectors.	Successfully compile the training materials and flawless organisation of the logistics for the training programs.
Support seamless project operation through administrative tasks.	Successfully manage and complete significant portion of the project’s administrative tasks within the given timeline, ensuring seamless operation towards the project goals.
Participate in fieldwork for data collection and compilation in MSME clusters to achieve project milestones.	Collect and compile data from at least 80% of the MSME clusters identified for the project, achieving project milestones and objectives.
Draft recruitment, procurement, and other project-related communications.	Draft project-related documents satisfactorily within the specified deadlines, ensuring effective communication and execution.
Compile background documents to aid decision-making by the National Project Coordinator.	Synthesize insights from background documents, contributing to at least 60% of the informed decision-making and strategy-setting meetings by the National Project Coordinator.
Assist in aligning preliminary work plans and budgets with project objectives for NPC review.	Prepare and align preliminary work plans and budgets with project objectives, achieving high level of acceptance from the National Project Coordinator for the reviewed plans.
Provide support in coordination, monitoring, and evaluation activities, delivering progress reports and solutions.	Provide support in coordination, monitoring, and evaluation activities, delivering most of the progress reports on time.
Help prepare agendas and background documents for productive discussions in meetings.	Prepare draft agendas and provide background documents of the steering committee meetings and working technical group meetings with high precision facilitating productive discussions.
Contribute to project outreach and promotion, identifying media channels and assisting with media outreach.	Contribute to project outreach and promotion efforts, resulting in at least 5 media mentions and reaching at least 1000 individuals through targeted promotional materials.
Disseminate project information to the target audience to enhance awareness and understanding.	Disseminate relevant project information to at least 50% of the intended audience, achieving increased awareness and understanding of the project.
Support mid-term and final term evaluations by preparing data and organizing logistics.	Preparing accurate and comprehensive data and logistics arrangements, contributing high degree of contentment from the evaluators.
Perform additional tasks essential for effective project implementation, demonstrating adaptability and commitment to success.	Achieve excellent accomplishment rate in executing the additional tasks assigned.

 

MINIMUM ORGANIZATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

 

Education: Advanced university (Master’s or equivalent) degree in economics, engineering, sciences, agri-business, environment, energy, business administration, or other relevant discipline is required.

 

Technical and Functional Experience:

• At least 1 year of work experience in the relevant field is required.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment is required.
• Good conceptual and writing skills are required.
• Knowledge of technical cooperation project in India is desirable.
• Working knowledge of solar renewable technologies, including concentrated solar thermal, training, financing, renewable energy business development, and project management are desirable.
• Demonstrated capability of impactful work in project management, publications, project documents, and reports are desirable.
• Possessing familiarity with the United Nations System and an understanding of UNIDO’s internal rules and regulations are desirable.
• Familiarity with the Government of India and its operational processes are desirable.

 

Languages: Fluency in written and spoken English is required. Fluency and/or working knowledge of Hindiis required.

 

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

 

Core values:
WE LIVE AND ACT WITH INTEGRITY: work honestly, openly and impartially.

WE SHOW PROFESSIONALISM: work hard and competently in a committed and responsible manner.

WE RESPECT DIVERSITY: work together effectively, respectfully and inclusively, regardless of our differences in culture and perspective.

Key competencies:
WE FOCUS ON PEOPLE: cooperate to fully reach our potential –and this is true for our colleagues as well as our clients. Emotional intelligence and receptiveness are vital parts of our UNIDO identity.

WE FOCUS ON RESULTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: focus on planning, organizing and managing our work effectively and efficiently. We are responsible and accountable for achieving our results and meeting our performance standards. This accountability does not end with our colleagues and supervisors, but we also owe it to those we serve and who have trusted us to contribute to a better, safer and healthier world.

WE COMMUNICATE AND EARN TRUST: communicate effectively with one another and build an environment of trust where we can all excel in our work.

WE THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX AND INNOVATE: To stay relevant, we continuously improve, support innovation, share our knowledge and skills, and learn from one another.

This appointment is limited to the specified project(s) only and does not carry any expectation of renewal.
Employees of UNIDO are expected at all times to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and respect for diversity, both at work and outside. Only persons who fully and unconditionally commit to these values should consider applying for jobs at UNIDO.

All applications must be submitted online through the Online Recruitment System. Correspondence will be undertaken only with candidates who are being considered at an advanced phase of the selection process. Selected candidate(s) may be required to disclose to the Director General the nature and scope of financial and other personal interests and assets in respect of themselves, their spouses and dependents, under the procedures established by the Director General.

Visit the UNIDO website for details on how to apply: www.unido.org

NOTE: The Director General retains the discretion to make an appointment to this post at a lower level.

Notice to applicants:
UNIDO does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process. If you have received a solicitation for the payment of a fee, please disregard it. Vacant positions within UNIDO are advertised on the official UNIDO website. Should you have any questions concerning persons or companies claiming to be recruiting on behalf of UNIDO and requesting payment of a fee, please contact: recruitment@unido.org