Project Management Support Specialist (Waste Management)

Job Highlight

Lead a multi-stakeholder, data-driven transformation of the PET recycling value chain in Pakistan - delivering policy-ready insights that advance the circular economy, decent work, and sustainable waste systems

About The Project Office

Since 1999, UNOPS has been a committed partner in Pakistan, supporting the country’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNOPS focuses on delivering essential services, including strengthening health systems, expanding access to WASH facilities in remote areas, and improving infrastructure for schools and communities. We also support emergency response efforts, delivering critical medical supplies and essential services during times of crisis. Through close collaboration with the Government of Pakistan, development partners, donors, and UN agencies, UNOPS works to build resilient, sustainable communities. Leveraging expertise in project management, procurement, human resources, and infrastructure, we provide tailored solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce risk, and maximize development impact.

Role Purpose

The Project Management Support Specialist (Waste Management) is responsible for designing and implementing a comprehensive diagnostic study on the PET recycling value chain, combining data analysis with stakeholder engagement to generate actionable insights. The role is also responsible for delivering policy-aligned recommendations to strengthen inclusive and sustainable waste management systems.

Functions / Key Results Expected

The Specialist will be responsible for leading the design, implementation, and analysis of a comprehensive diagnostic study, alongside providing technical and policy advisory support to strengthen solid waste management plans and promote Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Islamabad. Specific responsibilities include:

• Diagnostic Study Design and Implementation
• Support in the planning, implementation and monitoring of project activities in line with approved work plans, budgets and quality standards.
• Lead the development and execution of a diagnostic study, including methodology, tools, and analytical frameworks.
• Conduct sector mapping to assess the current PET value chain/waste management landscape.
• Undertake gap analysis to identify institutional, regulatory, and operational challenges.
• Generate evidence-based findings to inform policy and programmatic interventions.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation
• Design and implement structured stakeholder engagement processes.
• Conduct Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and multi-stakeholder consultations.
• Facilitate/conduct validation workshop to review findings and build consensus.
• Ensure inclusive engagement of key stakeholders, including municipal authorities, informal waste collectors, recycling entities, and policymakers.
• Technical and Policy Advisory
• Develop evidence-based and actionable policy recommendations aligned with national and local regulatory and policy frameworks.
• Promote and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mechanisms, ensuring integration into existing waste management systems.
• Lead and contribute to the formulation, review, and strengthening of solid waste management plans/EPR approaches and regulatory instruments in Islamabad.
• Integrate sustainability considerations, private sector participation, and inclusion of informal waste sector actors into system design and policy recommendations.
• Reporting and Deliverables
• Prepare a comprehensive diagnostic study report, including sector mapping, gap analysis, and policy recommendations.
• Document stakeholder engagement processes and key insights.
• Develop presentations, briefs/policy recommendations supporting EPR adoption and improved waste management regulations.
  
  

Education Requirements

Required

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in environmental science, waste management, civil engineering with 7 years of relevant experience OR
• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in relevant discipline with 5 years of relevant experience is required.
  
  

Desired

• A globally recognized professional certificate (Prince 2) or membership in Project Management is desired.
  
  

Required

Experience Requirements

• Relevant experience is work in project management or related areas.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience in solid waste management with particular experience in the PET value chain assessment is required
• Experience in developing and implementing waste management strategies/plans, and has worked in the municipal services sector.
• Experience in using GIS framework for waste value chain mapping, hotspot identification, and service gap analysis is required.
• Knowledge of international best practices and standards for waste worker safety and working conditions is preferred.
• Familiarity with circular economy and senior-level experience in municipal policy-making while worked with the government municipal sector is preferred.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement (informal waste workers, recycling facilities etc) and coordination is an advantage.
• Demonstrable proficiency in the use of collaboration and productivity tools (e.g. MS Office, G-Suite, etc) and web-based management systems is required
  
  

Desired

• Experience of working in multicultural environments or UN system organizations in a developing country is desired.
• Experience in development or humanitarian contexts is desired.