Junior Professional Officer (JPO)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address development challenges. The organization focuses on various areas, including governance, climate change, and sustainable development, and aims to support countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP has a diverse workforce of over 17,000 employees, including experts in various fields, and collaborates with multiple stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to implement its programs effectively.

Job Overview:
The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme at UNDP is designed to equip young leaders with the necessary skills and experience to contribute to the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The JPO will be involved in supporting the design and implementation of UNDP’s programs at various levels, including headquarters, regional, or country offices. This position offers an excellent opportunity for professional and personal growth, as JPOs will receive guidance from experienced UNDP staff and participate in various learning and development opportunities. The JPO will focus on Viet Nam’s energy transition, particularly in relation to the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and the Energy-Social Accounting Matrix (E-SAM) initiative, ensuring that JETP outcomes align with broader climate priorities and national development agendas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The JPO will be responsible for providing technical support for the monitoring and implementation of the JETP, assisting the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) with monitoring JETP implementation, and compiling and analyzing project data. The JPO will also support the JETP Secretariat by preparing technical briefs, developing briefing materials, and facilitating technical discussions with partners. Additionally, the JPO will contribute to UNDP’s broader Climate & Energy portfolio by providing research and analytical inputs on emerging areas under the Climate pillar, ensuring integrated programming across various initiatives. The role includes promoting UNDP’s visibility in energy transition through the preparation of technical papers and policy briefs, as well as liaising with partners to improve Viet Nam’s energy account.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of two years of relevant experience in climate change, energy transition, or related fields if they hold a master's degree, or four years if they hold a bachelor's degree. Demonstrated experience and knowledge of international best practices in energy transition, low-carbon development, and climate policy are required. Experience in project design, monitoring, and evaluation is also necessary. Familiarity with multilateral organizations, particularly UNDP or other UN agencies, is desired, as is experience working in Viet Nam or Southeast Asia. Proficiency in standard office software is also preferred.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Environmental Studies, Natural Sciences, Energy, Transport, Economics, Development, Public Policy, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the areas stated above, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in climate change, energy transition, or related fields for candidates with a master's degree, or four years for those with a bachelor's degree. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in project design, monitoring, and evaluation, as well as knowledge of international best practices in energy transition and climate policy.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, including writing, speaking, and presentation skills. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if relevant to the region or the work being conducted.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate is expected to start within one month of the recruitment outcome. This role is funded by the government of Denmark for one year, with the possibility of a further 12-month extension subject to organizational need, funding availability, and performance. UNDP is committed to equal opportunity and encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and conducts relevant checks on selected candidates. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions.