Consultant for Climate Change Unit

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 works closely with 33 countries in the Latin America and Caribbean region, focusing on environmental policy consensus and addressing emerging issues. The UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LACO) is located in Panama City, Panama, and integrates its activities into the Medium-Term Strategy and the Programme of Work approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).

Job Overview:
The consultant will provide technical expertise to the Climate Change Unit to implement the Euroclima Programme and the Green Climate Fund projects. The role involves guidance in the operation of the Regional Observatory of Carbon Markets and the Regional Observatory of Adaptation. The consultant will also collaborate on the development of the second version of the Transparency Pathways Report and provide technical inputs to enhance transparency in carbon markets through climate change data, particularly for the implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. The consultant will work independently while adhering to the guidelines provided by the UNEP Regional Subprogramme Coordinator for the Climate Change Unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for developing a guideline document to improve emissions projections, contributing to the Regional Observatory of Carbon Markets, collaborating on the Transparency Pathways Report, and providing technical expertise for monitoring, evaluation, and learning from the NAP portfolio. Specific tasks include conducting assessments of emission projections, analyzing the use of carbon market mechanisms, facilitating stakeholder interviews, documenting lessons learned from NAP processes, and organizing events and technical meetings. The consultant will also be involved in the operationalization of the Regional Observatory of Carbon Markets and will produce various reports and databases related to the project activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, biology, engineering, economics, social sciences, international cooperation, or related fields. A Master’s degree in relevant areas is preferred. Professional experience of at least two years in environmental sciences or related fields is required, along with one year of specific experience in managing climate change projects. Experience in climate transparency is desirable, and candidates should demonstrate excellent understanding of global and national climate change commitments.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, biology, engineering, economics, social sciences, international cooperation, or closely related fields is required. A Master’s degree in environmental sciences, engineering, economics, development, or related areas is desired, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex climate issues.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in environmental sciences or related fields, with at least one year specifically focused on managing, planning, or implementing climate change projects. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to work effectively in the climate change sector and contribute to relevant initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is required for this position, as effective communication in both languages is essential for collaboration with stakeholders and the production of reports and documents.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for 10 months. The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the Regional Subprogramme Coordinator of the Climate Change Unit in UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office. The role involves periodic reporting to UN Environment and mobilizing resources for adaptation initiatives. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.