Graphic Designer Consultant

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 serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD), which is administered by UNEP, is located in Montreal and plays a crucial role in facilitating international cooperation on biodiversity issues. The organization aims to conserve biological diversity, promote sustainable use of its components, and ensure fair sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. UNEP operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to environmental sustainability and advocacy.

Job Overview:
The Graphic Designer Consultant will be responsible for producing high-quality graphic design and layout work for various publications and online materials. This role involves creating visually appealing designs that align with the United Nations' corporate guidelines and branding toolkit. The consultant will work closely with the Programme Management Officer and the Communication and Advocacy Unit to ensure that all designs meet the required standards and effectively communicate the intended messages. The position requires a creative individual who can transform complex data and concepts into engaging visual formats, including infographics, logos, and web designs. The consultant will also be expected to manage timelines and coordinate with various departments to ensure accuracy and clarity in all produced materials.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of the Programme Management Officer, the consultant will perform the following duties:

• Design and layout publications, logos, webpages, and other communication materials, including books, technical reports, training materials, magazines, online publications, and technical brochures.
• Transform data sets, ideas, and concepts into innovative and accessible animated, interactive, or static infographics and illustrations for use in publications and on the web.
• Create logos for various initiatives.
• Develop engaging and feature-rich webpage designs or mobile app layouts.
• Consult with author departments to validate production, clarify ambiguities, rectify substantive errors, and ensure accuracy, clarity, cohesion, and conformity with United Nations standards and policies.
• Ensure that all designs are developed in line with an agreed-upon timeline and in coordination with the communications strategy of the Secretariat, as well as relevant guidelines such as branding guidelines.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a first-level degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in arts, graphic design, illustration, publishing, or a related field. Alternatively, a technical diploma combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the first-level degree. Candidates must possess strong skills in graphic design and editorial design, with a proven ability to write clearly and concisely in English. Experience or knowledge in the field of communication is desirable, as is experience in logo production and video production and editing. The consultant should demonstrate competencies in communication, planning and organizing, accountability, client orientation, and teamwork.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a first-level degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in arts, graphic design, illustration, publishing, or a related field. A technical diploma in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the first-level degree, allowing for flexibility in educational qualifications while still ensuring that candidates have the necessary skills and knowledge for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of five (5) years of working experience in graphic design and illustration for high-quality publications and information materials is required. Significant experience in the international arena is desirable, particularly within the context of the United Nations Common System or similar international organizations. The ability to adapt quickly and work closely with editors and reviewers at all levels is also essential for success in this position.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of other United Nations languages is considered desirable, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas (reading, writing, speaking, understanding), while knowledge is defined as a rating of 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for a duration of 12 months. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage, including application, interview, processing, or training. Additionally, the United Nations does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.