Environmental Policy Specialist

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. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy, working to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to addressing pressing environmental challenges. UNEP's mission is to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Job Overview:
The Environmental Policy Specialist position is crucial for strengthening the delivery of UNEP's regional science-policy sub-programme mandate in the Africa region. The role is designed to support the integration of science-based environmental dimensions into the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, ensuring that environmental considerations are prioritized in regional and national policy planning. The incumbent will work closely with UN Country Teams and other stakeholders to enhance the efficacy of environmental performance reporting and to contribute to regional environmental assessments. This position requires a proactive approach to empower Member States and partners to utilize environmental information for effective decision-making, particularly in addressing climate change, pollution, and biodiversity crises. The role also involves preparing communication materials to inform strategic decision-making and strengthen stakeholder engagement on environmental issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Environmental Policy Specialist include:

• Supporting the integration of science-based environmental dimensions into the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Africa.
• Providing technical support to UN Country Teams, including the production and updating of National Environment Summary reports.
• Contributing to regional environmental assessments and enhancing UNEP's science offerings to Member States.
• Strengthening the capacity of stakeholders to develop and apply environmental information for planning and decision-making.
• Supporting science-policy reporting and communication, including preparing progress reports and political briefs.
• Engaging with stakeholders on science policy perspectives for environmental protection.
• Providing science-policy perspectives in country briefs to inform strategic positioning.
• Performing other duties as assigned by Senior Management.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Environmental Policy Specialist position include:

• An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in a discipline related to environment and sustainable development, with knowledge of environmental assessment, management, or economics.
• A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
• Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.
• A minimum of five years of progressive experience in environmental policy development and natural resource management is required.
• Experience in the UN system’s reform process and familiarity with the UN Resident Coordinator System is essential.
• A minimum of two years of experience in UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as environmental science, sustainable development, environmental management, or economics. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Additional qualifications in data analytics or related fields are considered advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressive experience in environmental policy development and natural resource management. Candidates should have a strong background in the UN system’s reform processes, particularly the UN Resident Coordinator System and Regional Collaborative Platforms. Experience in UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks is also desirable, with at least two years of relevant experience within the five-year requirement.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly languages relevant to the African region, as it would enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the contract for this position is nine months. The role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and is part of UNEP's Regional Office for Africa. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be aware that the organization does not request information regarding bank accounts.