UNEP Programme Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established to serve as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, UNEP operates in 41 countries across the Asia and Pacific region, focusing on sustainable development solutions. The UNEP China Office was officially established in September 2003 in Beijing, China, and has been instrumental in supporting the country's efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advance the 2030 Agenda. UNEP collaborates closely with governments and key partners to develop responses and deploy solutions aimed at achieving climate stability, living in harmony with nature, and working towards a pollution-free planet.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Programme Assistant position is a National UN Associate Volunteer role based in the UNEP China Office. The primary focus of this position is to support the implementation of UNEP’s cooperation activities and projects in China, particularly in areas related to climate mitigation, green and low-carbon development, science for policy, and youth empowerment. The Programme Assistant will work under the direct supervision of the Head (a.i.) of the UNEP China Office and will be involved in various tasks that contribute to the overall mission of UNEP in promoting sustainable development and environmental protection in China. This role requires a proactive approach to organizing meetings, events, and missions, as well as providing essential support in research, analysis, and communication efforts related to environmental and climate issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UNEP Programme Assistant include:

• Supporting the organization of meetings, events, and missions by drafting invitations and meeting documents, preparing meeting minutes, and logistical arrangements.
• Assisting in providing English-Chinese interpretation and translation during bilateral meetings between UNEP and Chinese partners.
• Conducting environmental and climate research, analyzing data, and presenting information gathered from diverse sources to inform UNEP's work in China.
• Collecting, translating, and consolidating information on China's legislation, policies, practices, and case studies related to environment and sustainable development.
• Drafting or consolidating inputs for the partnership database, cooperation initiatives, briefing notes, and other reporting as required.
• Communicating with partners regarding UNEP's and UN's initiatives and activities.
• Supporting advocacy efforts by developing and managing UNEP China’s social media presence and press releases.
• Assisting UNEP China Office in advising the UN Country Team on the environmental dimension of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF).
• Performing administrative tasks and any other assignments as required by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires effective organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage a large volume of work efficiently and timely. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to establish priorities, plan, coordinate, and monitor their work, and handle multiple concurrent projects under pressure. Strong interpersonal skills and good spoken and written communication abilities are essential, including the capacity to prepare clear and concise reports and conduct presentations. Candidates should also possess the ability to communicate and empathize with diverse individuals, including national staff, military personnel, volunteers, and local interlocutors. A commitment to gender equality and sensitivity to cultural diversity is crucial.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the UNEP Programme Assistant position should have a background in environmental science, international relations, public policy, or a related field. A degree in one of these areas is preferred, as it provides the necessary knowledge and understanding of environmental issues and sustainable development practices.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in environmental research, project management, or related fields. Experience in working with international organizations, particularly in the context of the United Nations or similar entities, is highly desirable. Familiarity with climate change issues, sustainable development goals, and environmental policies in China will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Chinese is mandatory for this position, as the role involves significant interpretation and translation tasks. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment based in Beijing, China. The UN Volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and other living essentials. The position is full-time, and the volunteer will receive entitlements as per the UN Volunteer Conditions of Service. More details regarding living conditions and entitlements can be found on the UNV website.