UNDP: Marine Ecosystems Management Specialist – Panama City

Organization Mission

UNDP works in 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty while protecting the planet. We help countries develop strong policies, skills, partnerships and institutions so they can sustain their progress.

UNDP is the United Nations’ lead agency on international development. We support countries and communities as they work to eradicate poverty, implement the Paris Agreement on climate change and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. We advocate for transformative change, and we connect countries to the resources they need to help people build a better life. UNDP plays a pivotal role in international development as a knowledge broker, capacity builder, innovator, and facilitator of exchanges in the global development debate.

Context

Panama is a global leader in ocean and climate action, protecting 54% of its marine territory, surpassing the 30×30 target, and advancing a robust NDC that integrates biodiversity, marine–coastal ecosystems, water management and resilient livelihoods. UNDP’s Ocean Promise and Climate Promise guide our support to Panama in turning its blue and climate commitments into action, strengthening governance, accelerating NDC implementation and fostering inclusive, sustainable ocean economies. The UNDP mission to reduce inequalities, build resilience and advance climate action frames this assignment. In Panama, UNDP supports the implementation of the National Ocean Policy, national climate adaptation plans for biodiversity, and multiple regional initiatives, including sustainable fisheries in the Atlantic, a Pacific regional programme, and the Wider Caribbean project. The Specialist will help align these efforts to deliver nature-positive, climate-resilient outcomes

Key Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the Head of Portfolio for Nature, Climate and Energy (United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Panama) and the overall technical guidance of the Directorate of Coasts and Seas and the Directorate of Climate Change of MiAMBIENTE, the UN Volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

• Support the implementation and day-to-day management of projects on marine and coastal conservation, restoration and sustainable use, including coral reefs, mangroves, seagrasses, blue carbon, and nature-based solutions (NbS).
• Provide technical support to MiAMBIENTE and other executing partners, conduct field missions, monitor progress, identify operational challenges, and facilitate practical, joint solutions with communities and institutions.
• Contribute to blue economy and blue-carbon initiatives, including data collection, feasibility assessments, and identification of opportunities for innovation and scalable models.
• Compile best practices, lessons learned, and innovative approaches, and prepare communication, knowledge, and learning products for national and regional dissemination.
• Support the development, review, and quality assurance of project documents, concept notes, and proposals, including those related to Ocean Promise, Climate Promise, marine biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and coastal resilience.
• Assist in resource mobilization efforts, including mapping donors, preparing inputs for proposals, and supporting partnership development with academia, NGOs, private sector, and maritime or conservation organizations.
• Draft terms of reference, technical notes, and operational documents, ensuring timely follow-up for necessary clearances and alignment with UNDP procedures.
• Support the coordination and collaboration with regional and global UNDP initiatives, including sustainable fisheries (Atlantic and Caribbean), Pacific and Caribbean Ocean governance efforts, and adaptation plans linked to the nationally determined contributions (NDCs).
• Prepare inputs for progress reports, Integrated Programme Management Reports (IPMR), donor updates, and monitoring frameworks for the marine and coastal components of the portfolio.
• Organize and provide logistical and substantive support for workshops, consultations, and technical events linked to marine and coastal ecosystems, ocean governance, and climate adaptation.
• Analyze the contribution of marine-related projects to UNDP’s Strategic Plan, Nature Pledge, Ocean Promise, and Climate Promise, ensuring alignment with national priorities and the National Ocean Policy of Panama.
• Facilitate multi-stakeholder coordination by organizing technical workshops, consultations, and field missions, ensuring alignment between MiAMBIENTE, local communities, coastal authorities, and regional UNDP initiatives.

Required Skills and Experience

• Experience in the design and implementation of environmental and marine ecosystem programmes, with demonstrated expertise in coastal and marine conservation, restoration, and sustainable use, including ecosystems such as mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrasses.
• Experience in project management, resource mobilization, partnership development, monitoring, and reporting is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of how to collect and systematize best practices, produce high-quality communication and knowledge products, and support the organization of technical workshops, field missions, and multi-stakeholder events.
• Strong analytical, coordination, and communication skills are required, alongside a commitment to learning about volunteerism, community engagement, and local cultural practices relevant to marine and coastal areas.

Core Competencies

☒ Accountability
☒ Adaptability and Flexibility
☒ Building Trust
☒ Client Orientation
☒ Commitment and Motivation
☒ Commitment to Continuous Learning
☒ Communication
☒ Creativity
☒ Empowering Others
☒ Ethics and Values
☒ Integrity
☒ Judgement and Decision-making
☒ Knowledge Sharing
☒ Leadership
☒ Managing Performance
☒ Planning and Organizing
☒ Professionalism
☒ Respect for Diversity
☒ Self-Management
☒ Technological Awareness
☒ Vision
☒ Working in Teams

Living Conditions

Living conditions in Panama have continued to improve steadily over recent years, and the country remains one of the most attractive places to live and work in the region. Panama maintains a Very High Human Development Index, reflecting strong progress in health, education and overall quality of life. Urban areas offer modern services, reliable infrastructure and a vibrant cultural environment, while the country’s natural beauty—two oceans, national parks and rich biodiversity, adds to its appeal.
Panama’s economy remains dynamic in 2025, supported by logistics, services and trade, contributing to a stable environment for residents and visitors. Public safety continues to be a government priority, with visible police presence in key areas and protocols aimed at ensuring a secure experience for locals and foreigners.
The country’s healthcare system is robust, with public and private hospitals offering quality care and specialized services, an important consideration for expatriates and travelling professionals. Transportation and road infrastructure meet international standards, particularly in Panama City, making mobility efficient and reliable.
Overall, Panama offers a combination of modern urban living, natural landscapes and improving public services, creating favourable living conditions for national and international staff alike.