Maritime Emissions and MRV Consultant

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 in 1972, UNEP works with Member States and partners to improve environmental governance, reduce emissions, strengthen climate mitigation, and support evidence-based policy development and implementation. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental issues. The organization aims to encourage decision-makers in government, local authorities, and industry to develop and adopt policies, strategies, practices, and technologies that promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production, ensure safe management of chemicals, and contribute to making trade and environment policies mutually supportive. UNEP's Sustainable Mobility Unit specifically supports countries in advancing low- and zero-emission transport solutions, improving air quality, and reducing climate and short-lived climate pollutant (SLCP) emissions from transport systems.

Job Overview:
The Maritime Emissions and MRV Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the Government of Vanuatu in updating air quality and maritime emissions data, strengthening inventory systems, and enhancing Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) approaches. The consultant will be responsible for identifying sectoral mitigation pathways and developing national and sectoral recommendations for air quality and maritime-related emissions management. This position is part of UNEP's broader efforts to assist Vanuatu in reducing emissions from the land transport and maritime sectors, which includes the establishment of the National Air Quality Taskforce and coordination of mitigation policy. The consultant will leverage UNEP's institutional and technical expertise in air quality management, maritime emissions, and MRV system development, particularly in the context of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The consultant will work under the supervision of the Asia-Pacific Regional Mobility Lead and will be expected to deliver specific results related to maritime emissions data collection, emissions assessment, and stakeholder consultations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with several specific responsibilities, including:

• Collecting air quality and maritime emissions data relevant to Vanuatu.
• Conducting a comprehensive maritime sector emissions assessment and producing an updated maritime Short-Lived Climate Pollutants (SLCP) and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) inventory.
• Validating the updated air quality and maritime inventories to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Conducting multi-stakeholder consultations and technical reviews of maritime assessment findings to identify maritime GHG mitigation pathways as outlined in the approved workplan. The consultant will also be expected to provide technical recommendations for maritime mitigation policies and action plans, informed by stakeholder consultations, to support the development of the National GHG Strategy for Maritime and Shipping.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in maritime studies, maritime engineering, naval architecture, marine/environmental engineering, transport planning, environmental policy, or a related field. Additionally, candidates should have at least 2 years of progressively responsible professional experience in maritime transport, shipping, port operations, maritime environmental management, or related fields. This experience should include substantial work in maritime GHG and/or air pollutant emissions analysis, inventory development, and MRV system design. Demonstrated experience in supporting governments, international organizations, or regional bodies on maritime decarbonization strategies, technical assessments, or regulatory measures aligned with International Maritime Organization (IMO) frameworks is also required. Proven experience in drafting senior-level technical reports, strategy documents, or policy recommendations for public-sector or intergovernmental audiences is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in maritime studies, maritime engineering, naval architecture, marine/environmental engineering, transport planning, environmental policy, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial as it provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge needed to effectively address the challenges associated with maritime emissions and environmental management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible professional experience in relevant fields such as maritime transport, shipping, port operations, or maritime environmental management. This experience should include substantial involvement in maritime GHG and/or air pollutant emissions analysis, inventory development, and MRV system design. Experience in supporting governmental or intergovernmental organizations in maritime decarbonization strategies and technical assessments is highly desirable, particularly in the context of small island developing states or comparable developing country settings.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is required for this position, as English is one of the official languages of the United Nations Secretariat. While not mandatory, proficiency in French is considered an asset, as it is also an official language of the UN. Strong communication skills in these languages are essential for effective stakeholder engagement and reporting.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is remote-based and is expected to last for a duration of 12 months. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Additionally, the UN does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.