Consultant for Environmental Management System

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. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and has a strong commitment to making its internal operations more environmentally sustainable. The organization has been operational for several decades and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to environmental issues across various countries. UNEP's mission includes the promotion of sustainable development through sound environmental practices and the establishment of partnerships with various stakeholders to address global environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position focuses on strengthening UNEP's Environmental Management System (EMS) and advancing the organization's sustainability objectives. The consultant will be responsible for improving data-driven environmental performance monitoring, reporting, and capacity building. The ultimate goal is to fully operationalize and enhance UNEP's EMS and its digital tools, ensuring comprehensive coverage across UNEP Divisions, Offices, Duty Stations, and UNEP-administered Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). The consultant will lead various initiatives, including the deployment of the EnviroData eApp, the development of an EMS Action Plan for 2026-2029, and the organization of internal audits. The role requires collaboration with UNEP staff and stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the EMS and to promote a culture of sustainability within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will perform a range of duties including leading the deployment of the EnviroData eApp modules, updating historical environmental inventory data, and facilitating consultations with UNEP and MEAs EMS focal points. Responsibilities also include developing the EMS Action Plan for 2026-2029, conducting training sessions for staff, organizing EMS internal audits, coordinating the EMS Steering Group activities, and preparing regular EMS performance reports. The consultant will finalize guidelines for virtual and hybrid meetings, develop strategies to enhance the online meeting culture, and create standard operating procedures aligned with the EMS Manual. The role requires a proactive approach to ensure compliance and effective application of the EMS across UNEP.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental management, sustainability, or a related field from an accredited academic institution. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in the specified fields, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in areas such as greenhouse gas inventory accounting, corporate environmental strategy, sustainable procurement, and the implementation of sustainability programs is required. Experience in developing environmental reporting applications and providing training in Environmental Management Systems is also necessary. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of EMS documentation and implementation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental management, sustainability, or a related field. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of qualifying experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of environmental management and sustainability practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in at least two of the specified areas, including greenhouse gas inventory accounting, corporate environmental strategy, and sustainable procurement. Candidates should have experience implementing sustainability programs within an organization and should be familiar with the sensitization of personnel in environmental sustainability. Experience in developing environmental reporting applications, particularly the EnviroData Applications/eApp, is essential. Additionally, experience in providing training related to Environmental Management Systems is desirable, as is the ability to develop written documentation of procedures and functions within the EMS.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN. Proficiency in additional languages may enhance a candidate's application but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is 9 months. The position is not specified as full-time or part-time, but it is expected that the consultant will be engaged in a comprehensive capacity to fulfill the outlined duties and responsibilities. The recruitment process is conducted without any fees, and the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage of the recruitment process. This ensures that the process is accessible and equitable for all candidates.