National Deputy Team Leader

KEY INFORMATION 
Job Title: National Deputy Team Leader 
Sector: Agriculture/ Rural Development 
Position Type (full/part time): Full-Time 
Duration/Level of Effort (long/short term): Long-Term, 66 PMs 
Position Location (e.g. city, country, remote): Dili and Project Location in Manatuto 
 
 
SUMMARY OF THE PROJECT 
The Rural Resilience and Livelihood Improvement Sector Project (the Project) in Manatuto Municipality, Timor-Leste, aims to enhance the resilience and livelihoods of approximately 46,000 rural residents. The project is financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development and Community Housing (MRDCH). It adopts a community-driven, inclusive development approach to address climate vulnerability, water scarcity, and limited economic opportunities in agriculture-based communities. 
 
Key Outputs are: 

• Institutional Capacity Building: Strengthening the capabilities of farmer groups, communities, and government institutions through participatory planning, climate adaptation strategies, and geospatial tools. 
• Water Infrastructure Development: Construction and upgrading of water supply systems, flood protection, and erosion control infrastructure to ensure year-round water access and disaster risk reduction. 
• Livelihood Diversification: Promotion of climate-resilient agriculture, agroforestry, and market linkages to support income generation, especially for women and vulnerable groups. 

The primary scope of the Project Management Consultant (PMC) is to provide comprehensive technical, managerial, and capacity-building support to the MRDCH for the effective implementation of the Project. The PMC ensures that the project meets its development goals, adheres to ADB and national standards, and delivers sustainable, community-driven outcomes. 
 
 
SUMMARY OF THE POSITION 
The Deputy Team Leader (DTL) will serve as the principal national counterpart to the International Project Manager/Team Leader, providing essential administrative, coordination, and technical support to ensure the effective implementation of the Project. The DTL will lead project monitoring and evaluation (M&E) efforts, manage reporting systems, and facilitate communication and coordination among the Project Management Office (PMO), Project Implementation Units (PIUs), and other stakeholders.  
 
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES  

• Support the PMO in overall project coordination and management in close collaboration with the Team Leader. 
• Assist in the preparation of annual implementation plans, financial plans, and communication strategies. 
• Coordinate the collection, consolidation, and analysis of subproject data and municipal reports. 
• Lead the preparation of quarterly work plans and progress reports. 
• Supervise and monitor the performance of consultants, ensuring alignment with approved work plans. 
• Ensure timely disbursement of funds and accurate financial reporting in collaboration with finance and procurement teams. 
• Oversee the development and implementation of the M&E framework, including participatory M&E systems. 
• Work closely with the international M&E specialist to enhance reporting tools and templates. 
• Facilitate coordination between PMO and PIUs and help resolve project-related issues and grievances. 

 
 
JOB REQUIREMENTS 
Education: 

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Agriculture, Community and Rural Development, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline is required. 
• A Master’s degree is preferred. 

Minimum Requirements: 

• Minimum 15 years of professional experience, including: 
• Experience in community-based rural development, particularly in infrastructure and livelihoods. 
• Proven project management experience in multi-sector rural development projects. 
• Preferably 10 years of experience leading project teams and coordinating with government agencies and stakeholders. 
• Experience working on donor-financed projects. 

Desired Qualifications: 

• Prior experience as a leading ADB-financed projects. 

Language Proficiency: 

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are essential. 

 
 
APPLICATION PROCESS 
Candidates are encouraged to apply by July 15, 2025/as soon as possible.  
 
For your application to be considered, please upload your documents as followed: Candidate Last Name, First Name, date, Title of the Position. 
 
Cowater International is an equal opportunity employer, basing employment on merit and qualifications as they relate to professional experience and position expectations. Cowater does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender identity, disability, age, or any other basis protected by law. 
We thank all applicants, however only those shortlisted will be contacted. 
 
 
ABOUT US 
Founded in 1985, Cowater International is a leading global development consulting company. Headquartered in Ottawa and with corporate hubs in Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Helsinki, London, Madrid, Manila, Nairobi, Singapore and Stockholm, Cowater International has successfully delivered a portfolio of over 2500 projects and assignments in more than 95 countries. We work with governments, private sector actors and communities implementing projects that support socio-economic development, institutional strengthening, environmental improvements and advance equal opportunities for all. We are a diverse and experienced team committed to building a better tomorrow for the people we serve. Our adaptive approach to management has led to our yearly award-winning work and recognition as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies since 2017. 
 
We thank you for your interest in building a better tomorrow.