International Consultant for HFC Implementation Plans

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, coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Law Division works with international and national partners, providing technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, and strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP has been instrumental in various global environmental initiatives and operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on sustainable development and environmental protection.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for HFC Implementation Plans is crucial for enhancing institutional and technical capacities in Honduras and Guatemala to implement their Kigali HFC Implementation Plans (Stage I). The consultant will be responsible for developing regulatory instruments, digital tools, and training programs that support the phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in accordance with the Montreal Protocol obligations and national climate commitments. This role involves providing technical assistance to strengthen national HFC licensing and quota systems, designing and rolling out customized online platforms, and ensuring that the strategies approved by the Executive Committee are effectively implemented. The consultant will work closely with national stakeholders to ensure that the tools and training developed are aligned with the countries' regulatory frameworks and environmental goals. The position requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to facilitate the successful execution of UNEP’s components in both countries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will work under the supervision of the UNEP OzonAction Latin America Regional Network team and provide technical assistance remotely and/or in-country to stakeholders in Honduras and Guatemala. Specific duties include: - Coordinating the preparation and national validation of the HFC Customs manual in Guatemala and delivering one training session. - Coordinating the development of the HFC Customs manual in Honduras and delivering one training session. - Leading the conceptual design and development of a digital platform for HFC quota/licensing in Honduras, including stakeholder validation and user training. - Drafting and presenting a feasibility report on second-hand appliance import restrictions in Honduras, followed by a national dissemination workshop. - Developing a national labor competency standard for the MAC sector aligned with safety and environmental requirements. The consultant's role is essential in translating policy commitments into operational tools and practices, thus contributing to both countries' compliance with the Kigali Amendment while promoting sustainable refrigerant management.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in mechanical or chemical engineering, environmental sciences, law or economy, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree, combined with two (2) additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. At least seven (7) years of work experience in the design and implementation of projects or programs related to the Montreal Protocol, including the preparation of technical content and the delivery of technical training for key stakeholder groups in the refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) sector, such as customs officers and RAC technicians, is required. Experience in developing digital platforms for tracking and tracing document review and approval processes is highly desirable. Previous work experience within the United Nations system and knowledge of the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances and other Montreal Protocol–related matters is also desirable. Excellent inter-personal skills for interfacing with government officers, private sector, and civil society, as well as Programme Officers from Implementing Agencies of the Multilateral Fund, are highly desirable. The ability to combine independent work with effective participation in teamwork, based on information sharing and collective work with peers and supervisors, is essential. Capacity to work in teams and in a multicultural environment is highly desirable, along with excellent communication skills.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in mechanical or chemical engineering, environmental sciences, law or economy, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the technical and regulatory aspects of HFC phase-down and environmental management.

Experience:
The consultant must have at least seven years of work experience in the design and implementation of projects or programs related to the Montreal Protocol. This includes experience in preparing technical content and delivering technical training for key stakeholder groups in the refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) sector. Experience in developing digital platforms for tracking and tracing document review and approval processes is highly desirable, as is previous work experience within the United Nations system. Knowledge of the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances and other Montreal Protocol–related matters is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written Spanish is required for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages is desirable, which would enhance communication with a broader range of stakeholders and facilitate collaboration across different regions.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for a duration of 7 months. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview meetings, processing, or training. Additionally, the United Nations does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.