Consultant for Environmental Project

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established in 1972, UNEP 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's mission includes coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus, keeping the global environment under review, and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in strengthening Guatemala's technical and institutional capacity for managing controlled substances. This involves preparing an inventory of banks of used or unwanted controlled substances and developing a comprehensive action plan for their collection, transport, and disposal. The consultant will work closely with the Government of Guatemala and international consultants, ensuring that the project aligns with the guidelines set forth by the Montreal Protocol and ExCom Decision 91/6

• The position requires a deep understanding of environmental policies, particularly those related to ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The consultant will also be responsible for organizing events to engage stakeholders and disseminate findings, ensuring that the project is transparent and inclusive.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for providing technical guidance and support to the Government Officer of Guatemala and the international consultant coordinating the inventory and action plan. Specific duties include:

• Developing a detailed workplan for the inventory and action plan.
• Organizing and executing a launch event with national stakeholders to raise awareness about the project.
• Assessing existing data on banks of controlled substances and the local refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) servicing sector.
• Evaluating the institutional framework and infrastructure for recovery, recycling, and reclamation in Guatemala.
• Preparing an inventory of stocks of used and unwanted controlled substances through field visits and surveys.
• Analyzing collected data and preparing an inventory report.
• Organizing outreach events to inform stakeholders about the inventory results and the action plan.
• Attending bi-weekly project meetings to discuss progress and challenges. The consultant will work under the guidance of the Ozonaction Programme Officer from the Latin American Region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's or equivalent degree in mechanical or chemical engineering, environmental sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level degree combined with seven additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted. A minimum of five years of experience in supporting the implementation and coordination of environmental projects is required. Previous experience within the United Nations system and knowledge of ozone-depleting chemicals and the Montreal Protocol will be considered an asset. Candidates should also have experience in statistical methods, data analysis, and survey design, as well as familiarity with comprehensive waste management legislation.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in mechanical or chemical engineering, environmental sciences, or a related area is required. A first-level degree may be accepted if accompanied by seven additional years of relevant work experience. This educational background is essential for understanding the technical aspects of environmental management and policy implementation.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of experience in environmental project implementation and coordination. Experience in the United Nations system, particularly regarding the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances, is highly desirable. Additional experience in environmental inventory projects, database design, and working with government officials in the Latin American region will enhance a candidate's suitability for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written Spanish is required for this position, as effective communication with local stakeholders and government officials is essential. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for five months. There is no fee associated with the recruitment process, and the United Nations does not request any financial information from applicants. This role is part-time and may involve flexible working hours to accommodate project needs.