Gender Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the designated entity within the United Nations system that addresses environmental issues at both global and regional levels. Established to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, UNEP plays a crucial role in keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The organization works with various international and national partners, providing technical assistance and advisory services aimed at implementing environmental policy and strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and those with economies in transition. UNEP operates in multiple countries and has a significant presence in the Mediterranean region, focusing on initiatives that promote biodiversity and sustainable environmental practices.

Job Overview:
The Gender Specialist position is part of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) under UNEP, specifically supporting the EU-funded SEMPA Project, which aims to enhance and support the implementation of the Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Programme for the Mediterranean Sea and Coast (IMAP). The role involves preparing a comprehensive desk review on gender, Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), monitoring, and coastal livelihoods for participating countries. The specialist will identify gender-responsive entry points towards MPAs and assess the policy environment of these countries. The position requires the consultant to gather gender-related data, enhance the capacity of beneficiary countries on gender mainstreaming, and provide technical inputs for project reports and communication activities. The consultant will work closely with the SEMPA Project Manager and the QSR/EcAp Head of Unit, ensuring that gender considerations are integrated into all aspects of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Gender Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: 1) Preparing a detailed work plan and timetable for the assignment; 2) Conducting a comprehensive desk review on gender, MPAs, monitoring, and coastal livelihoods; 3) Collecting additional data on gender aspects at national and local levels, including field visits to beneficiary countries; 4) Identifying gender-responsive entry points for MPAs and effective communication of gender-sensitive information; 5) Assessing the policy environment and identifying potential stakeholders; 6) Leading capacity-building events on gender for MPA Managers in Algeria, Egypt, and Lebanon; 7) Providing technical inputs for project progress reports and administrative processes; 8) Maintaining a database of key partners involved in gender-related activities; 9) Supporting the preparation and execution of the SEMPA Project Steering Committee Meeting; 10) Preparing materials regarding gender mainstreaming for communication activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields such as environment, law, social sciences, or communication. A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in environmental or international development aid projects is required, particularly in executing technical capacity projects related to gender mainstreaming. Experience in collecting and analyzing sex-disaggregated data, monitoring gender mainstreaming activities, and conducting capacity-building exercises on gender aspects is essential. Strong analytical skills and the ability to present findings effectively in writing are also required. Familiarity with the UNEP/MAP system and context in the Mediterranean region is desirable, as is proficiency in data analysis software such as SPSS, MAXQDA, or Atlas.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in environment, law, social sciences, or communication is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of gender issues in environmental contexts and for effectively contributing to the SEMPA Project's objectives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, particularly in environmental or international development aid projects. This experience should include executing technical capacity projects linked to the environment and gender mainstreaming, ideally within the Mediterranean context. Specific experience in collecting and analyzing sex-disaggregated data, defining and monitoring gender mainstreaming activities, and conducting capacity-building exercises is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of French and/or Arabic is desirable, as it would facilitate communication with stakeholders in the Mediterranean region and enhance the effectiveness of capacity-building efforts.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for 12 months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not require information regarding applicants' bank accounts.