Consultant for Terminal Review of GEF Project

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 has since grown to become a pivotal organization in addressing environmental issues worldwide. It operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to various environmental causes. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges on a global scale.

Job Overview:
This consultancy position is situated within UNEP’s Climate Change Division, specifically in the Mitigation Branch and Climate Change Mitigation Unit. The consultant will be responsible for conducting a Terminal Review of the GEF project titled 'Implementing Ecuador's Climate Transparency System' (GEF ID 10818). This role is critical as it involves evaluating the project's effectiveness and adherence to GEF guidelines. The consultant will work closely with the Task Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean and the LAC mitigation team to ensure that all outputs are delivered in a timely manner as per the Terms of Reference. The position is home-based and part-time, expected to last for eight months, allowing for flexibility while ensuring that the consultant can focus on delivering high-quality evaluations and reports.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading the terminal review process in accordance with GEF and UNEP policies, preparing the final report in English, and conducting thorough evaluations of all project elements based on UNEP evaluation office guidance. Specific tasks include conducting a project desk review, drafting the Theory of Change, preparing the Terminal Review framework, developing protocols for data collection, and planning the review schedule. The consultant will also coordinate the data collection and analysis phase, which involves conducting interviews with project stakeholders, collecting information, and analyzing data. Regular reporting to the GEF Climate Mitigation Unit on progress is essential. Additionally, the consultant will manage internal and external relations, ensuring a participatory review process while maintaining independence, and will communicate effectively with UNEP GEF Climate Mitigation Office regarding any issues that arise.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields such as environmental sciences, energy efficiency, economics, development, engineering, international cooperation, social sciences, management, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first-level degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of two years of experience in developing, assessing, or evaluating climate change-related projects or policies is required. Experience working with multilateral or bilateral funding entities in climate change, environment, or development is also necessary. Desirable qualifications include experience in drafting project proposals, assessing project documents, and familiarity with national governments in Latin America and the Caribbean, particularly knowledge of Ecuador’s institutional framework and public policies.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in environmental sciences, energy efficiency, economics, development, engineering, international cooperation, social sciences, management, or a related discipline is required. A first-level degree with additional qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree, emphasizing the importance of relevant educational qualifications in the environmental and climate change sectors.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in developing, assessing, or evaluating projects or policies related to climate change. Candidates should have experience working with or for multilateral or bilateral funding entities, as well as experience in drafting project proposals and assessing project documents. Familiarity with the institutional settings and frameworks of Latin American countries, particularly Ecuador, is highly desirable, along with experience in project evaluation within GEF or UNEP contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this consultancy role, as these are the primary working languages for the position. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, given that it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Strong oral and written communication skills in these languages are essential for effective collaboration and reporting.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is part-time and home-based, expected to last for eight months. There are no fees associated with the application or recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage. This position emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with stakeholders while ensuring the independence of the review process.