Programme Specialist in Natural Sciences

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNESCO, which stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Established in 1945, UNESCO aims to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The organization has a global presence, operating in over 190 countries with a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO's mission is to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through its various programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The position of Programme Specialist in Natural Sciences is crucial for advancing UNESCO's mission in promoting sustainable development, scientific research, and innovation on a global scale. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Programme Specialist in Sciences and the overall authority of the Director of the Regional Bureau for the Maghreb, based in Rabat. This role involves close collaboration with divisions of the Natural Sciences sector at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris and plays a significant part in implementing UNESCO's programs related to sustainable development and environmental protection. The primary functions of this position include formulating, managing, and implementing programs related to sustainable development, adapting them to local realities. The specialist will propose initiatives and support new projects/programs focusing on water resources, renewable energy, and environmental issues, particularly in relation to UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, Global Geoparks Programme, and International Hydrological Programme (IHP). The role also entails designing and drafting new projects and programs independently while aligning with the strategic direction communicated by the headquarters. The specialist will assist in executing missions in collaboration with member states, planning and facilitating workshops, and supporting the development of national action plans according to country priorities for managing change. Additionally, the incumbent will contribute to building working relationships with partners and participate in fundraising efforts by establishing contacts. Participation in thematic groups, conferences, and other relevant activities in this field is also expected, along with monitoring and evaluating project implementation by regularly reviewing project work plans and advising on corrective actions as necessary based on project evolution parameters and local realities. The specialist will ensure regular budget monitoring in close collaboration with the administration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Programme Specialist include:

• Formulating, managing, and implementing programs related to sustainable development, ensuring they are tailored to local contexts.
• Proposing initiatives and supporting new projects/programs with a focus on water resources, renewable energy, and environmental issues.
• Collaborating with the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, Global Geoparks Programme, and International Hydrological Programme (IHP).
• Designing and drafting new projects and programs independently while adhering to the strategic direction from headquarters.
• Working closely with other sectors of the Regional Bureau for the Maghreb.
• Assisting in executing missions in collaboration with member states, planning and facilitating workshops, and supporting the development of national action plans.
• Contributing to building working relationships with partners and participating in fundraising efforts.
• Participating in thematic groups, conferences, and other relevant activities.
• Monitoring and evaluating project implementation by regularly reviewing project work plans and advising on corrective actions as necessary. 1
• Ensuring regular budget monitoring in collaboration with the administration.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include:

• A higher scientific degree (equivalent to a Master's) preferably in the field of natural sciences (environmental sciences, natural resource management, water sciences, renewable energy).
• At least two (2) years of relevant experience in the field of natural sciences (environmental sciences, natural resource management, water sciences, renewable energy, or a related field).
• Experience in project design, scientific coordination, project management, and budget resource management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent coordination, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Good understanding of results-based management principles, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and prioritization skills.
• Ability to be proactive and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a higher scientific degree (equivalent to a Master's) in a relevant field such as environmental sciences, natural resource management, water sciences, or renewable energy. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of the natural sciences and their application in sustainable development.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position is at least two (2) years of relevant professional experience in the field of natural sciences. This experience should encompass areas such as environmental sciences, natural resource management, water sciences, renewable energy, or related fields. Additionally, candidates should have experience in project design, scientific coordination, project management, and budget resource management, which are crucial for the successful execution of the responsibilities associated with this role.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are excellent proficiency in both French and Arabic, both written and spoken. This proficiency is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external partners. Additionally, a good knowledge of English, both written and spoken, is strongly recommended as a desirable qualification, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage in international contexts and broaden communication channels.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a fixed-term contract for a duration of two years, which is renewable based on performance. It is based at the UNESCO Regional Bureau for the Maghreb in Rabat, Morocco. The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 637,695 MAD, and the benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. Candidates must complete an online application and provide complete and accurate information. The evaluation process may include tests, assessments, and interviews, and only selected candidates will be contacted for further steps. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from individuals from under-represented groups, including minorities and persons with disabilities.