Consultant for the RAC Sector

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote 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. The organization works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP is also an Implementing Agency of the Multilateral Fund of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, focusing on enabling developing countries to meet and sustain their compliance obligations under the treaty. UNEP's Law Division, particularly through the OzonAction Branch, plays a crucial role in this mission, providing a range of services and project implementation support to assist countries in their compliance efforts.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a pivotal role in enhancing national awareness and capacity in the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) sector in Guatemala, focusing on the adoption of low-global warming potential (GWP) and energy-efficient technologies. This position requires close coordination with the compliance assistance regional team for Latin America, and the consultant will be responsible for developing a comprehensive strategy and implementation roadmap that outlines objectives, target groups, key messages, methodology, timeline, and coordination mechanisms for all activities. The consultant will also organize seminars, workshops, and communication campaigns aimed at promoting the gradual reduction of harmful refrigerants and the adoption of energy-efficient practices among various stakeholders in the RAC sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include developing a strategy and implementation roadmap for promoting low- or zero-GWP refrigerants, organizing seminars to promote the reduction of HCFC and HFC consumption, designing and distributing educational materials, conducting workshops for importers and retailers, and implementing a communication campaign to raise awareness about low-GWP, energy-efficient RAC technologies. The consultant will prepare a comprehensive final report summarizing all activities, including participant profiles, developed materials, key results, challenges, and recommendations for future actions. This role requires a proactive approach to engaging stakeholders and ensuring effective communication of the benefits of sustainable RAC practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in Engineering (preferably in Electromechanical, Mechanical, or related fields) or a related degree in technical fields or environmental studies. A Master's degree in Energy Management, Business Administration, or other relevant areas related to engineering or environmental systems is desirable. Additionally, a minimum of 4 years of experience in the HVAC-R sector, including technical service, project development, or capacity building, is required. Proven experience in developing and delivering training workshops, implementing communication campaigns, and designing related materials in technical fields such as refrigeration, air conditioning, or energy-efficient systems is also required. Familiarity with Montreal Protocol-related substances and their phase-out schedules is desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first-level university degree in Engineering, preferably in Electromechanical, Mechanical, or related fields, or a related degree in technical fields or environmental studies. A Master's degree in relevant areas such as Energy Management or Business Administration is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in the HVAC-R sector, which encompasses Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration. This experience should include technical service, project development, or capacity building. Candidates should also have proven experience in developing and delivering training workshops and implementing communication campaigns, particularly in technical fields related to refrigeration and energy-efficient systems. Experience in coordinating or implementing training programs aimed at enforcement or technical personnel is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written Spanish is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with local stakeholders is crucial. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered desirable, as it may enhance the consultant's ability to engage with a broader audience and collaborate with international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for a duration of 6 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 request information regarding applicants' bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.