Consultant for Energy Efficiency in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since grown to encompass a wide range of environmental issues, working with various stakeholders to promote sustainable practices. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in 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 specifically focuses on providing 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, working to ensure compliance with international agreements aimed at protecting the ozone layer and promoting sustainable practices in the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors.

Job Overview:
The consultant will provide technical assistance to support the maintenance and enhancement of energy efficiency in the refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) servicing sector across four countries: Peru, Honduras, Bolivia, and Guatemala. This role involves working closely with national ozone units (NOUs) and stakeholders in the RAC sector, offering guidance both remotely and, if feasible, face-to-face. The consultant will be responsible for conducting desk studies, formulating guides, holding training workshops, and submitting detailed reports on various aspects of energy efficiency and the management of controlled substances. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying best practices and opportunities for improvement in energy efficiency, as well as the ability to engage with policymakers and stakeholders to promote the use of low-global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants and energy-efficient RAC equipment. The consultant will also be tasked with developing strategies for energy efficiency labeling and minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for RAC equipment, ensuring alignment with international commitments and national policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will work under the supervision of the Latin America Programme Officer and will be responsible for the following actions:

• Submit a desk study to identify and assess best practices, lessons learned, and opportunities for maintaining/improving energy efficiency in the servicing sector in Honduras.
• Formulate a guide on measures for comprehensive management during import, use, and final disposal of controlled substances in Guatemala.
• Hold at least two training workshops (face-to-face/virtual) on safe handling of refrigerants and energy efficiency in RAC equipment in Guatemala and submit a report.
• Submit a report containing results of the meetings held with energy efficiency policymakers regarding the use of low-GWP refrigerants and energy-efficient RAC equipment in Bolivia.
• Submit a detailed report on strategies defined to improve Energy Efficiency Labelling and Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for RAC equipment in Bolivia.
• Prepare a strategy paper to guide the implementation of the EE Pilot Project, aligning with Peru’s commitments to the Executive Committee, defining the overall approach for the project, including objectives, activities, products, timeline, and budget.
• Conduct at least two workshops for trainers and technicians on energy efficiency in refrigeration and air conditioning equipment in Peru, submitting a report with attendance list, photographic record, agenda, and audiovisual material.
• Submit a report on the assessment of the current status of energy efficiency labelling and MEPS for RAC equipment in Peru and evaluate the certification and market surveillance mechanisms in place.

Required Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental policy, science, engineering, 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 experience in project/programme implementation linked to information outreach, knowledge management, or project management support is required. Proven experience in working under the Logical Framework Approach in developing countries is also necessary. Experience in the implementation of Montreal Protocol projects is highly desirable, as is experience working with government officers of developing countries. Previous work experience in the United Nations system and knowledge of the phase-out of ozone-depleting chemicals and Montreal Protocol-related matters is highly desirable. Experience in providing advice and technical assistance on projects related to pollution prevention and minimization, reduction of emissions, waste management, energy efficiency, renewable energies, cleaner production policies, circular economy, and sustainability will be considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental policy, science, engineering, 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 degree. This educational background ensures that the consultant possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of environmental issues, policies, and technologies relevant to the role.

Experience:
The consultant must have at least seven years of experience in project or programme implementation, particularly in areas related to information outreach, knowledge management, or project management support. Experience working under the Logical Framework Approach in developing countries is essential. Additionally, experience in the implementation of Montreal Protocol projects is highly desirable, as is experience working with government officers in developing countries. Previous work experience within the United Nations system and familiarity with the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances and related matters is also highly desirable. The consultant should have a proven track record of providing technical assistance and advice on projects focused on pollution prevention, energy efficiency, and sustainability.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written Spanish is required for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders and partners involved in the projects.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is five months, and the position is home-based, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The consultant will not be required to pay any fees during the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of recruitment, including application, interview, processing, or training. The organization emphasizes its commitment to transparency and integrity in the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not asked for personal financial information.