UNEP Mercury Consultant - Oral Health Expert

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. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since been at the forefront of environmental governance, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to promoting sustainable practices and policies. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges on a global scale.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Mercury Consultant - Oral Health Expert will be tasked with developing two Medium Sized Projects (MSPs) aimed at phasing out the use of dental amalgam through legislative measures, health insurance reforms, and educational initiatives. This role is critical as it supports countries in enhancing their regulatory frameworks and capacities for managing chemicals and waste in the oral health sector. The consultant will work closely with various stakeholders, including government officials and health institutions, to gather necessary data and insights for project development. The projects will focus on improving health outcomes and environmental safety by addressing the use of mercury in dental practices, aligning with the obligations under the Minamata Convention on Mercury. The consultant will be expected to deliver comprehensive project submission packages that meet UNEP and GEF standards, ensuring that all components are well-researched and effectively communicated.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for drafting project submission packages for two MSPs, which will include the following specific duties:

• Coordinate with government focal points and national institutions to gather and analyze relevant data and reports.
• Develop a baseline scenario and identify key barriers to the phase-out of dental amalgam.
• Design the project framework, including components, outcomes, outputs, and activities, along with a problem tree, solution tree, and Theory of Change (ToC).
• Create a project results framework with appropriate targets and indicators, guided by UNEP.
• Prepare a detailed project budget breakdown using provided templates.
• Formulate a gender mainstreaming action plan and a stakeholder engagement plan, with assistance from another expert.
• Develop a communication strategy and a risk mitigation plan.
• Create a comprehensive workplan for the project duration.
• Draft Terms of Reference (TORs) for key personnel involved in the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as dentistry, public health, international relations, law, political or social science, environmental studies, or chemical engineering. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of five years of project management experience at the international level is required, along with a solid understanding of donor-funded projects. Experience with GEF and UNEP environmental or industry-related programs is highly desirable, showcasing the candidate's ability to navigate complex project environments and stakeholder dynamics.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field is essential for this position. This could include disciplines such as dentistry, public health, international relations, law, political or social science, environmental studies, or engineering. Candidates with a first-level university degree may still be considered if they have additional qualifying experience, demonstrating the importance of both formal education and practical experience in this role.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant experience in project management, particularly in the context of international projects. This experience should include project preparation and implementation, ideally within the framework of donor-funded initiatives. Familiarity with GEF and UNEP projects is advantageous, as it indicates a deeper understanding of the specific challenges and requirements associated with environmental and health-related projects.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with strong drafting and writing skills essential for effective communication. Additionally, a working knowledge of French is required, which will facilitate collaboration with stakeholders in regions where French is spoken, enhancing the consultant's ability to engage with diverse partners and audiences.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for five months within a nine-month period. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Portfolio Manager of the GEF Chemicals and Green Chemistry Unit and will report directly to the Programme Management Officer. The final deliverables will require approval from both the Programme Management Officer and the Portfolio Manager. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.