Consultant for Climate Mitigation Unit

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 has grown to become a key player in environmental governance, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff members, working closely with governments, civil society, and the private sector to address pressing environmental challenges. UNEP's Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LACO) is located in Panama City and focuses on the unique environmental issues faced by the 33 countries in the region, particularly in relation to deforestation, climate change, and biodiversity loss.

Job Overview:
The Consultant for the Climate Mitigation Unit will play a crucial role in supporting the UNEP's efforts in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region, particularly in the areas of safeguards, benefit-sharing, and legal and policy aspects related to REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation). This position requires close collaboration with the UNEP Programme Management Officer UN-REDD and CMU Regional Coordinator, as well as other stakeholders in the region. The consultant will be responsible for providing technical guidance, developing knowledge products, and contributing to capacity-building activities aimed at enhancing the implementation of REDD+ safeguards and promoting sustainable forest management practices. The role demands a strong understanding of environmental policies, legal frameworks, and social considerations in the context of climate change and forest conservation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Provision of UN-REDD Technical Guidance on Safeguards and Benefit-Sharing in LAC: - Design and plan annual technical assistance workplans for partner countries in LAC. - Provide technical inputs to enhance the implementation of REDD+ safeguards and benefit-sharing arrangements. - Lead UNEP’s technical assistance efforts in selected countries, focusing on strengthening Safeguards Information Systems (SIS) and integrated safeguards approaches. - Collaborate in the recruitment of consultants for UN-REDD technical work, including drafting Terms of Reference (ToRs) and participating in selection processes. - Participate in planning and executing country missions related to REDD+ safeguards and legal aspects.
• Knowledge Management, Reporting, and Events: - Develop and disseminate knowledge products and training materials related to REDD+ safeguards. - Contribute to UNEP’s reporting obligations and coordinate with various stakeholders. - Provide technical inputs for workshops, webinars, and training sessions in LAC. - Organize UNEP-led events, such as the UN-REDD Working Group on Safeguards and Integrity. - Engage in advocacy and capacity-building activities linked to environmental integrity in REDD+ actions. - Participate in international or regional meetings and knowledge exchange platforms as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in environmental management, economics, administration, social sciences, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of four years of experience in projects or programs related to environment, natural resources, climate change, or development. At least two years of experience specifically in REDD+ projects in the LAC region is desired, along with experience in environmental and social safeguards. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in environmental management, economics, administration, social sciences, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in one of these areas is highly desirable and will enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role. The educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in environmental policies, management practices, and social sciences, which are critical for addressing the complex challenges associated with REDD+ and climate mitigation efforts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant experience in projects or programs related to environment, natural resources, climate change, or development. Candidates should have at least two years of experience specifically in REDD+ initiatives within the Latin America and Caribbean region. Experience in environmental and social safeguards is also desired, as it is crucial for the successful implementation of REDD+ strategies and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Languages:
Fluency in both Spanish and English is required for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders across the LAC region and for the preparation of reports, technical guidance, and knowledge products. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, but Spanish and English are mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is for a duration of twelve months, with a full-time commitment of 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. The consultant will be required to work exclusively at the UNEP LAC Office in Panama City. Payments will be disbursed upon the timely delivery of monthly activity reports, which must be approved by the UNEP Programme Management Officer UN-REDD and CMU Regional Coordinator. The mid and final payments will be contingent upon interim and final reviews conducted by the same authorities. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.