Individual Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, UNESCO operates in more than 190 countries, focusing on building peace, eradicating poverty, and fostering sustainable development through education, the sciences, culture, communication, and information.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Consultant is crucial for supporting the implementation of the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan (2026–2035) within the IberoMAB and the World Network of Mountain Biosphere Reserves (WNMBR). The consultant will work under the supervision of the Director of the Ecological and Earth Sciences Division and the Programme Specialist in charge. The role involves designing, developing, documenting, and synthesizing data and processes related to the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme. The consultant will be responsible for strengthening reporting, capacity development, and strategic planning across regional and thematic networks, ensuring alignment with the Hangzhou Action Targets. The consultant will produce various analytical reports, assessments, and guidance packages to facilitate the integration of climate change and biodiversity restoration projects in biosphere reserves, particularly focusing on youth engagement and participation in the 4th IberoMAB Youth Forum.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Implementing the Hangzhou Strategic Action Plan within the IberoMAB Network and WNMBR, which involves conducting priority target analysis, assessing network progress and needs, and compiling consultation-based analyses.
• Developing an implementation guidance package and quarterly analytical briefing notes to document progress and challenges.
• Consolidating project documentation for climate change and biodiversity restoration activities in selected biosphere reserves, including synthesizing success cases and creating communication-oriented synthesis products.
• Preparing thematic inputs and coordination reports for the 4th IberoMAB Youth Forum, ensuring broad youth participation and developing participatory methodologies.
• Producing a final synthesis document with technical recommendations aligned with IberoMAB objectives and MAB Programme strategic targets.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in environmental sciences, international relations/development, sustainability, geography, or a closely related field. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in supporting environmental programmes, biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, or sustainable development is required. Candidates should also have experience in producing analytical reports, conducting consultations, and synthesizing information. Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills are essential, along with experience working with multicultural teams and coordinating with multiple stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as environmental sciences, international relations, sustainability, or geography. This educational background should be documented by a diploma or transcript, demonstrating the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in relevant fields, particularly in environmental programmes, biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, or sustainable development. Candidates should have a proven track record of producing analytical reports and conducting consultations, showcasing their ability to synthesize complex information effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory, with excellent written and spoken communication skills required. Candidates should provide documentation demonstrating their language proficiency, particularly in a professional context. Knowledge of Portuguese and/or French is considered an advantage, and candidates are encouraged to provide evidence of their proficiency in these languages as well.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is set for 11 months, from February 2026 to December 202

• The position is open to external candidates, and the application process requires candidates to submit a comprehensive application through the UNESCO careers website. This includes an Employment History form, an up-to-date CV, a technical proposal outlining the approach and methodology for the consultancy, and a financial proposal. The selection process may involve assessments and interviews, and candidates should be aware that UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce.