National Consultant for Inventory of Controlled Substances

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 has been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues. With a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable resource management.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for Inventory of Controlled Substances will play a crucial role in strengthening Honduras' technical and institutional capacity to manage used or unwanted controlled substances. This position involves the preparation of an inventory and a comprehensive action plan for the collection, transport, and disposal of these substances, ensuring compliance with international environmental agreements. The consultant will work closely with government officials and international experts to assess existing data, coordinate field surveys, and develop strategies for effective management of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). This role is vital for mitigating environmental impacts and promoting sustainable practices in Honduras.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for providing technical guidance to the Government Officer of Honduras and collaborating with an international consultant. Key responsibilities include:

• Developing a detailed workplan for the inventory and action plan.
• Organizing and executing a launch event with national stakeholders.
• Assessing existing data on controlled substances and the local refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) servicing sector.
• Evaluating the institutional framework for recovery, recycling, and reclamation of controlled substances.
• Coordinating the preparation of the inventory of stocks of controlled substances.
• Conducting field surveys to gather data from target companies.
• Analyzing collected data and preparing an inventory report.
• Organizing outreach events to present inventory results and action plans to stakeholders.
• Attending bi-weekly project meetings to discuss progress and challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in mechanical or chemical engineering, environmental sciences, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of two years of experience in implementing projects related to multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) is required. Experience in inventory projects involving greenhouse gases (GHGs) or substances regulated under the Montreal Protocol is highly desirable. Proficiency in statistical methods, data analysis, and survey design is essential, along with experience in database design and processing.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in mechanical or chemical engineering, environmental sciences, or a related area is required. A first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree, emphasizing the importance of relevant educational qualifications in the field of environmental management and engineering.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of experience supporting the implementation of projects or programs linked to multilateral environmental agreements. Experience in inventory projects with the private sector for greenhouse gases or substances regulated under the Montreal Protocol is highly desirable. Additional experience in data collection, statistical analysis, and chemical management of regulated substances is preferred, particularly in relation to ozone-depleting substances and hydrofluorocarbons.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written Spanish is required for this position, as effective communication with local stakeholders and government officials is essential for the successful execution of the project. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for a duration of six months. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Latin America’s OzonAction Programme Officer. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.