Environmental Affairs Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Office of the Under-Secretary-General in the Department of Operational Support of the United Nations. The UN aims to maintain international peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, promote sustainable development, and uphold human rights. Established in 1945, the UN has grown to include 193 member states and operates in various countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff across diverse fields.

Job Overview:
The Environmental Affairs Officer is tasked with developing, coordinating, and managing capacity-building programs focused on environmental management within UN Peace Operations. This role supports the Department of Operational Support (DOS) by leveraging extra-budgetary resources and fostering partnerships with various UN system actors. The officer will consult with environmental and engineering practitioners to assess capacity-building needs, create work plans, and ensure the delivery of effective training programs. The position also involves monitoring expenditures related to these programs and promoting awareness of environmental issues. The officer will participate in drafting environmental guidance documents, reviewing assessments, and advising on environmental management practices to ensure a positive legacy in host communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Environmental Affairs Officer will have a range of responsibilities, including consulting with practitioners to identify capacity-building needs, developing work plans based on consultations, coordinating the delivery of training programs, and updating training materials to reflect current policies. The officer will monitor expenditures related to capacity-building initiatives, undertake outreach activities, and facilitate networking among Environmental Affairs Officers. Additionally, the officer will draft technical documents and operational guidance, support missions in identifying opportunities for positive legacies, and advise on environmental issues arising from various assessments. The role also includes liaising with Permanent Missions and member states, evaluating opportunities for local capacity building, and participating in field visits to provide guidance and draft mission summaries.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of environmental management theories and concepts, with the ability to analyze complex issues and synthesize information for senior management. Professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to plan and organize work efficiently are essential. The officer should demonstrate a commitment to gender perspectives and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work under pressure while maintaining high standards of professionalism.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental management, science, engineering, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in environmental management is required. This experience should include work with national or sub-national governments, multinational companies, or international organizations. Candidates should have experience implementing environmental programs, particularly in non-conflict settings, and in developing and delivering capacity-building programs. Experience in environmental management within field operations, including peacekeeping missions, is also essential.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in the same areas.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until June 30, 2026, with the possibility of extension. The selection process may be limited to internal candidates or those based at the duty station, and it is important to note that this temporary position does not guarantee future employment. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.