Programme Officer

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. UNEP was established in 1972 and operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. The organization focuses on various environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity, and pollution, and works collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Programme Officer position is integral to the OzonAction Branch’s Global Compliance Assistance Programme (CAP) team within UNEP's Law Division. The incumbent will be responsible for leading the development, implementation, and evaluation of various environmental programmes and projects, particularly those related to the Montreal Protocol and its Multilateral Fund. This role requires a strategic approach to managing projects, ensuring compliance with international environmental agreements, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. The Programme Officer will also be expected to conduct research, analyze data, and provide insights that inform decision-making processes. The position demands a proactive individual who can effectively communicate and advocate for environmental policies while ensuring gender mainstreaming in all initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Officer will take the lead in developing, implementing, and evaluating assigned programmes/projects, directing subordinates in their development and monitoring. Responsibilities include reviewing relevant documents, identifying priorities and issues, and proposing corrective actions. The incumbent will coordinate the technical review and submission of projects to the Multilateral Fund, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures. They will represent UNEP in various meetings, lead the development of training programmes for National Ozone Officers, and ensure gender mainstreaming in all projects. The role also involves supervising the preparation of written outputs, coordinating policy development, conducting surveys, and leading compliance assistance missions. The Programme Officer will manage budget-related activities and ensure effective utilization and development of staff, guiding them in data collection and analysis.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess in-depth knowledge of environmental law and policy, particularly related to the Montreal Protocol. They should demonstrate the ability to identify strategic issues and generate organizational direction. Strong analytical skills are essential for interpreting data and supporting decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of providing innovative technical leadership and negotiating effectively. Professionalism, teamwork, client orientation, leadership, and sound judgment are key competencies required for this role. The Programme Officer must be able to work collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders, valuing diverse perspectives and fostering a supportive work environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental policy, environmental management, natural science, engineering, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with four years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable, reflecting the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making in environmental management.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in environmental programmes or projects is required. Candidates should have experience working in or with developing countries and/or economies in transition. Experience with technical review and submission of projects under environmental financial mechanisms is desirable, as is familiarity with Multilateral Fund Executive Committee policies and projects. Knowledge of the phase-out of Ozone Depleting Substances and hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) phase-down activities is also advantageous. Experience within a UN system entity or national institution implementing Montreal Protocol programmes is preferred, along with experience in data analytics or related areas.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is desirable, which may enhance communication and collaboration in a multilingual environment. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: reading, writing, speaking, and understanding, while knowledge is rated as 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as a fixed-term appointment limited (FTA-limited). Candidates selected for this role will be subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various activities or offices of the United Nations. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance in its staff and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.