Consultant for Forest Biodiversity

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. Established in 1972, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and has been instrumental in various international environmental agreements. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the implementation of the FERI (Forest Ecosystem Restoration Initiative) Work Plan for the years 2026-203

• This position involves enhancing the capacity of CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity) Parties and strengthening partnerships to support the achievement of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly focusing on Targets 2 and 1
• The consultant will work closely with the Programme Officer on Forest Biodiversity within the Biodiversity Science, Policy and Governance Unit, contributing to the effective implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity. The role requires drafting detailed work plans, providing technical support for FERI activities, and leading outreach and communication efforts to promote ecosystem restoration principles. The consultant will also engage with various organizations to foster partnerships that facilitate the successful implementation of FERI initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include:

• Supporting the implementation of the annual work plan based on the FERI Work Plan 2026-2030, which involves drafting a detailed annual work plan with timeframes and budgets, providing technical support for FERI activities, and contributing to monitoring and reporting on FERI implementation.
• Leading the FERI outreach and communication plan by updating and coordinating communication strategies, developing materials such as presentations and social media content, and representing the project in meetings.
• Building and maintaining partnerships with organizations focused on ecosystem restoration, promoting the integration of FERI outcomes into their activities.
• Ensuring all documents produced are delivered electronically to the project officer, with evaluations based on quality and timeliness of work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in forestry, environmental science, environmental management, conservation, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of two years of work experience in implementing projects or programs related to forest conservation and management, particularly with a biodiversity focus, is required. Experience in capacity building for developing countries regarding forest biodiversity or ecosystem restoration is highly desirable, as is experience working with the United Nations. Skills in project implementation, event organization, and communication are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as forestry, environmental science, environmental management, or conservation. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by two years of additional qualifying experience. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant work experience in implementing projects or programs focused on forest conservation and management, particularly those addressing biodiversity issues. Experience in providing capacity building to developing countries on forest biodiversity or ecosystem restoration is highly desirable. Familiarity with the workings of the United Nations and its environmental initiatives will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French and Spanish is desirable, with fluency defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (reading, writing, speaking, understanding) for English, and 'confident' in two of the four areas for French and Spanish.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning applicants should be Canadian residents or citizens or possess permission to work in Canada. The role is hybrid, allowing for a combination of remote and in-office work. Travel to ecosystem restoration workshops may be required. Importantly, the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.