Project Management Support Specialist (Waste Management)

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

The “Promoting Sustainability and Decent Work in the PET Recycling Value Chain” is a project funded by The Coca Cola Foundation (TCCF), and managed by UNOPS. The project aims to promote sustainability and decent work by improving polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle collection and recycling in Islamabad Capital Territory, enhancing the working conditions of informal waste workers through the establishment of informal waste worker cooperatives, creating the potential for PPP to sustain PET recycling initiatives (including reduction of reliance on virgin plastic), and fostering a circular economy. 

The project will conduct a diagnostic study to map the PET value chain, introduce capacity building on occupational safety and sorting techniques, promote worker formalization into cooperatives, and advocate for policy reforms including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). This will involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector partners, recycling facilities, and local communities (informal waste workers). 

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.

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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.