UNEP Specialist in Sargassum Seaweed Blooms

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has been instrumental in coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 100 countries, working with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, thereby strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP’s Ecosystems Division plays a crucial role in addressing various environmental challenges, including land-based pollution, which is a significant focus of the Source-to-Sea Pollution Unit. This unit is dedicated to tackling issues such as wastewater management, plastic pollution, and habitat destruction, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, specifically SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

Job Overview:
The UNEP Specialist in Sargassum Seaweed Blooms will be responsible for producing a comprehensive, evidence-based Global Report on Sargassum that aligns with UNEP's mandate under operative paragraph 4(b) of resolution UNEP/EA.7/Res.

• This report aims to support strengthened international cooperation on the sargassum response and provide a substantive basis for a high-level meeting as outlined in paragraph 4(c) and for reporting to the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) at its eighth session under paragraph 4(d). The consultant will work closely with the UNEP Source-to-Sea Pollution Unit, under the strategic guidance of the Programme Management Officer, to consolidate existing activities, technical and financial resources, and initiatives related to sargassum monitoring, prevention, collection, and management. The role will involve engaging with various stakeholders, including Member States, regional organizations, and academic institutions, to facilitate the exchange of best practices and support decision-making processes for national and regional action planning. The consultant will also be tasked with drafting the Global Report, ensuring it covers critical aspects such as governance frameworks, monitoring systems, operational responses, and the blue economy, while reflecting the evidence base available at each stage of the assignment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Consultant will undertake a variety of duties and responsibilities, including: reviewing existing documentation relevant to the report, such as the UNEP Sargassum White Paper and related scientific literature; verifying the technical content of UNEP training materials on sargassum; engaging with UNEP headquarters, regional offices, and relevant secretariats to collect inputs and comments; collaborating with universities and academic institutions to strengthen partnerships; collecting and organizing inputs from regional offices and National Focal Points; conducting targeted desk research to address information gaps, particularly in regions with limited data; drafting the Global Report in accordance with the agreed structure; coordinating bilateral consultations with key regional organizations; overseeing the intermediate technical review of the draft report; integrating feedback from various stakeholders into successive drafts; finalizing the report's editing, formatting, and layout; and contributing to a synthesis of key findings for future high-level engagement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Environmental Science, Marine Science, Oceanography, Environmental Management, or a closely related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in marine and coastal environmental issues is required, ideally with exposure to harmful algal blooms, marine pollution, or coastal ecosystem management. Excellent writing and communication skills, along with a deep understanding of marine pollution and coastal ecosystem management, are essential. Demonstrated experience in research, technical report writing, and stakeholder coordination is also required, while experience working with governments, intergovernmental organizations, or UN agencies is desirable. Proven experience in coordinating multi-lateral projects and familiarity with the Caribbean and/or West Africa regional context is an added advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in fields such as Environmental Science, Marine Science, Oceanography, Environmental Management, or closely related disciplines. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have two additional years of qualifying experience, demonstrating the importance of both formal education and practical experience in this role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of professional experience in marine and coastal environmental issues. This experience should ideally include exposure to harmful algal blooms, marine pollution, or coastal ecosystem management. Candidates should have a proven track record of research, technical report writing, and stakeholder coordination, showcasing their ability to navigate complex environmental challenges and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. A working knowledge of Spanish and/or French is desirable, particularly given the geographic focus of the assignment, which includes the Wider Caribbean and West Africa regions. Proficiency in these languages will enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders involved in the sargassum response.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for approximately 4.5 months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Additionally, the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.