Individual Contractor for Special Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), specifically the Industry and Economy Division's chemicals branch. UNEP was established in 1972 and has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. It operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. The organization focuses on various environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity, and pollution, and works with governments, civil society, and the private sector to promote sustainable practices globally.

Job Overview:
The individual contractor will play a crucial role in the negotiation of project agreements and the finalization of project documents for projects that have been approved under various funding rounds. This position involves oversight of ongoing projects until their closure and providing support for the preparations of meetings for the Special Programme Executive Board of the two funds. The contractor will be responsible for qualitative analysis of applications, technical reviews of proposed project activities, and ensuring the legal instruments are signed with successful applicants. The role also includes overseeing project implementation, identifying issues, and providing solutions to ensure successful project completion. Additionally, the contractor will support Executive Board meetings, undertake outreach activities, and participate in the development of training workshops and seminars. Data collection and analysis will be essential to identify trends and provide insights for data-driven decision-making and reporting.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the individual contractor include:

• Supporting application rounds of the Special Programme and Global Framework on Chemicals Fund by conducting qualitative analyses of applications and technical reviews of proposed activities.
• Developing and ensuring the signature of legal instruments with successful applicants.
• Overseeing the implementation of projects through to completion and closure, identifying problems and providing solutions.
• Providing substantive support to Executive Board meetings and other relevant meetings.
• Undertaking outreach activities as needed, including participation in the development of training workshops, outreach events, and seminars.
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends or patterns and providing insights through data visualization methods.
• Assisting in the monitoring and evaluation of the funds, including reviewing past and ongoing application rounds and preparing impact evaluations.
• Performing other duties as required to support the objectives of the Special Programme.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental sciences, environmental management, economics, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A certified project management qualification is desirable. Candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development, with at least two years at the international level related to the management of chemicals and waste. Experience in program and project development and management, as well as providing policy advice on chemicals and waste management, is required. Additionally, experience in organizing inter-governmental and multi-stakeholder processes and meetings is advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as environmental sciences, environmental management, or economics. Alternatively, a first-level university degree may be accepted if combined with relevant qualifying experience. A project management certification is considered a plus, indicating a formal recognition of the candidate's project management skills and knowledge.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development, with at least two years of experience at the international level specifically related to the sound management of chemicals and waste. Candidates should have a strong background in program and project development and management, as well as experience in providing policy advice on chemicals and waste management. Experience in organizing inter-governmental and multi-stakeholder processes and meetings is also beneficial, as it demonstrates the ability to work effectively in collaborative environments.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, along with proficiency in either French or Spanish. Knowledge of additional United Nations languages is desirable, as it enhances communication capabilities within the international context of the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is office-based in Geneva, Switzerland, with an expected duration of 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 is committed to ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process, and it does not require any financial information from applicants.