Consultant for Buildings and Construction

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is a leading global environmental authority established in 197

• UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. It operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. UNEP plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices across various sectors, including buildings and construction.

Job Overview:
The consultant will work under the guidance of UNEP’s Climate Change Coordinator and the Buildings team leader to deliver a Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) policy paper and a project concept. This role involves extensive research and stakeholder consultations, particularly focusing on the buildings and construction sector. The consultant will support UNEP’s efforts in promoting sustainable practices through the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GlobalABC). The position requires regular engagement with UNEP teams and participation in meetings, with a focus on enhancing the sustainability of buildings and construction in alignment with global environmental goals, including the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for mapping key stakeholders and existing initiatives related to CDR, conducting research on applicable technologies and innovations in the buildings and construction sector, and organizing stakeholder consultations and thematic roundtables. They will draft summary reports, a CDR policy paper, and a project concept based on their findings. Additionally, the consultant will facilitate GlobalABC webinars/events, support Buildings and Construction activities in Kenya, and assist in developing knowledge products and tools. They will also coordinate with national GlobalABC focal points and local partner organizations, plan meetings and workshops, and prepare background information and discussion topics. Monthly activity reports will be submitted to track progress and deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in buildings, civil, or environmental engineering. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with eight additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the buildings and construction sector is required, with proven experience in green building solutions, climate change policy, and environmental governance. Familiarity with carbon management strategies in the sector is essential. Experience working with international organizations and a deep understanding of multilateral cooperation is desirable. Strong analytical research skills and the ability to present complex topics coherently to various stakeholders are also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in buildings, civil, or environmental engineering is required. A first-level university degree may be accepted if combined with sufficient qualifying experience. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in sustainable building practices and environmental engineering principles.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in the buildings and construction sector, with a focus on green building solutions and climate change policy. Experience in environmental governance and a strong understanding of carbon management strategies are crucial. Prior experience with international organizations and multilateral cooperation is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with global environmental frameworks and collaborative efforts.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions where UNEP operates or where stakeholder consultations will take place.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for 10 months and is based in Nairobi, Kenya, with responsibilities that may extend to Paris, France. The consultant will work full-time and is expected to engage with various stakeholders, including governments, industry partners, and research institutions. The role does not involve any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants for applications, interviews, or training.