International Consultant for HCFC Verification

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. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and works with various stakeholders including international and non-governmental organizations, national and local governments, and the business sector to develop and implement policies and practices that are cleaner and safer. UNEP is also an Implementing Agency of the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer. The organization has a mission to ensure that environmental considerations are integrated into the decision-making processes at all levels, and it operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various environmental issues.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for HCFC Verification involves the successful and timely completion of independent verification of HCFC consumption in Guyana, The Bahamas, Grenada, and Barbados for specified years. The consultant will be responsible for preparing high-quality verification reports for each country, ensuring compliance with the guidelines set by the Executive Committee (ExCom) of the Multilateral Fund. The consultant will work closely with the OzonAction team to provide technical assistance during the project preparation process, ensuring that the countries meet their HCFC phase-out responsibilities and comply with the Montreal Protocol. This role requires a strong understanding of the operational capabilities and needs of National Ozone Units in developing countries, as well as expertise in the implementation of the Montreal Protocol and its associated policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including: (i) Preparing a detailed work plan for the verification reports, incorporating feedback from the respective governments and ensuring endorsement by UNEP. (ii) Drafting four verification reports, one for each of the countries involved, ensuring that the verification aligns with the guidelines approved by ExCom. (iii) Finalizing the verification reports by incorporating comments from both the governments and UNEP. (iv) Providing technical assistance during the review process of the verification reports prior to submission to ExCom-98 and ExCom-9

• The consultant will ensure that all verification activities are conducted in accordance with the established guidelines and that the reports accurately reflect the consumption targets agreed upon by the countries.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Engineering, or a related field. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree combined with two qualifying years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the master's degree. A good understanding of the operational capabilities and limitations of National Ozone Units in developing countries is essential. Additionally, candidates should have policy and technical expertise related to the implementation of the Montreal Protocol, including familiarity with its institutions, policies, and procedures. Knowledge of the control measures under the Montreal Protocol and Multilateral Fund policies is required, while an understanding of national obligations arising from the Kigali Amendment is desirable. Candidates should also be familiar with Executive Committee decisions regarding HPMPs and other technical assistance projects funded by the Multilateral Fund.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master's degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Policy, Engineering, or a closely related field. In cases where a candidate holds a bachelor's degree, they must also have two years of qualifying experience in a relevant area to be considered for the role. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental policies and the technical aspects of HCFC verification.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in developing and reviewing technical project proposals related to environmental management and compliance with international agreements. Experience working with National Ozone Units or similar organizations in developing countries is highly valued. The consultant should also have a proven track record of expertise in the implementation of the Montreal Protocol and its associated policies, demonstrating the ability to navigate the complexities of international environmental agreements.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills are essential, as the consultant will be required to prepare detailed reports and engage with various stakeholders, including government officials and UNEP staff. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based, and the expected duration of the consultancy is not specified. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization is committed to ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process, and it does not request any financial information from applicants.