Consultant for the UNEP Vienna Programme Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes 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 has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it operates in over 150 countries. The UNEP Vienna Programme Office, established in 2004, acts as the Secretariat of the Carpathian Convention and serves as UNEP’s European focal point for environmental cooperation with Central and South-Eastern European countries. The office coordinates UNEP’s program of work in this region and facilitates collaboration between UNEP and various organizations based in Vienna and the sub-region, focusing on sustainable development and environmental protection in mountainous areas.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a pivotal role in coordinating the science-policy-practice interface and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) processes relevant to the Carpathian Convention. This position involves implementing the project titled 'Linking biodiversity, pastoralism and cultural heritage through ESD in the Carpathian Region' and overseeing activities related to Carpathian Pastoralism. The consultant will also contribute to cross-sectoral and cross-regional activities, support the Technical Assistance Project Preparation for the LIFE Carpathian Strategic Nature Project, and coordinate the development of activities focused on the Green Recovery of Ukraine. The role requires active participation in various meetings, events, and initiatives, ensuring that the Carpathian Convention's objectives are met while fostering collaboration among stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include coordinating the science-policy-practice interface and ESD-related processes, liaising with various organizations such as the UNECE Steering Committee on ESD and UNESCO ESD-net, and co-organizing relevant events. They will oversee the implementation of the biodiversity and pastoralism project, ensuring compliance with project documents and maintaining communication with donors. The consultant will also contribute to cross-sectoral and cross-regional activities, participate in the development of the Carpathian Biodiversity Framework Implementation Plan, and coordinate activities related to the Green Recovery of Ukraine. Specific tasks include planning sessions for conferences, maintaining contact with UNIDO project staff, and integrating inputs from various stakeholders into the Carpathian Convention's activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in sustainability sciences, environmental policy, environmental sciences, natural resources, life sciences, or a related field. A PhD in a similar area is considered an asset. Additionally, a minimum of seven years of experience in environmental policy, sustainable regional development, nature protection, or the science-policy-practice interface is required. Project management experience in an international context is essential, along with expertise in Education for Sustainable Development, Pastoralism, and Biodiversity. Experience working with organizations in the Carpathian countries, particularly in Ukraine, is desirable, as is experience in academic institutions and writing peer-reviewed publications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as sustainability sciences, environmental policy, environmental sciences, natural resources, or life sciences. A PhD in a similar field is advantageous and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of professional experience in fields related to environmental policy, sustainable regional development, nature protection, or the science-policy-practice interface. Candidates should have project management experience in an international context, demonstrating their ability to manage complex projects effectively. Experience in interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary settings, particularly in relation to Education for Sustainable Development, Pastoralism, and Biodiversity, is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of a Carpathian language is considered an asset and may be beneficial for engaging with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and expected to last for 12 months. The consultant will work in an office-based environment and will report directly to the Head of the UNEP Vienna Programme Office. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.