Technical Consultant for HCFC Phase-Out Management Plan

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. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and operates various programs to support member states in achieving their environmental goals. The OzonAction Compliance Assistance Programme (CAP) is one of UNEP's initiatives, specifically focused on assisting countries in complying with the Montreal Protocol, which aims to phase out ozone-depleting substances. UNEP has been instrumental in providing policy and technical support to member states in West Asia, ensuring that they meet their obligations under the Montreal Protocol. The organization has a global presence and collaborates with numerous countries to address environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The position of Technical Consultant for HCFC Phase-Out Management Plan involves delivering comprehensive project documents for the HCFC Phase-Out Management Plan (HPMP) Stage III for Qatar and HPMP Stage II for Syria. The consultant will be responsible for developing overarching strategies for HCFC phase-out that align with the Montreal Protocol obligations of both countries. This includes providing policy recommendations to enhance regulatory enforcement, improve refrigerant management, and promote the adoption of ozone-friendly and low-global warming potential (GWP) alternative technologies. The consultant will also facilitate stakeholder consultations, guide data collection and verification processes, and propose technical interventions to support the transition to sustainable cooling solutions. The role requires collaboration with national counterparts and a deep understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities within the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors in Qatar and Syria.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will work under the supervision of the Montreal Protocol Regional Coordinator for West Asia and will be tasked with several key responsibilities. These include:

• Developing an overarching HCFC phase-out strategy for Qatar and Syria to ensure compliance with the Montreal Protocol and their respective phase-out schedules.
• Providing policy recommendations aimed at enhancing regulatory enforcement and promoting the adoption of alternative, ozone-friendly, and low-GWP technologies.
• Offering technical and policy inputs, as well as facilitating stakeholder consultation meetings in both countries to gather insights and feedback.
• Guiding proper data collection and verification processes as part of the HPMP preparation.
• Proposing technical interventions that facilitate the transition to low-GWP, ozone-friendly refrigerants in priority sectors, particularly in the refrigeration and air conditioning servicing sector.
• Preparing an implementation roadmap and action plan that outlines timelines, responsibilities, and funding needs for each country's HPMP.
• Drafting complete project documents for HPMP Stage III for Qatar and HPMP Stage II for Syria, ensuring compliance with Multilateral Fund requirements and readiness for submission to the Executive Committee.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in Mechanical, Chemical, Environmental, or Energy 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. A minimum of 7 years of experience in ozone-depleting substances (ODS) phase-out and the development of related projects and strategies is required. Strong knowledge of the Multilateral Fund (MLF) working procedures and policies under the Montreal Protocol is essential, particularly regarding the theoretical, practical, and environmental aspects of phasing out ODSs. Experience in preparing project documents for the MLF, especially HPMP projects, is also required. Candidates should demonstrate extensive experience in ODS phase-out strategies, regulatory frameworks, and technical interventions for sustainable cooling solutions, along with excellent analytical skills for reviewing and integrating stakeholder feedback.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Mechanical, Chemical, Environmental, or Energy Engineering is required for this position. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience. This educational background is crucial for understanding the technical aspects of refrigerant management and the implementation of the Montreal Protocol.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in the field of ozone-depleting substances (ODS) phase-out and the development of related projects and strategies. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the Multilateral Fund's policies and procedures, particularly in relation to the Montreal Protocol. Experience in preparing project documents for the MLF, especially for HPMP projects, is essential. Additionally, extensive experience in developing ODS phase-out strategies, regulatory frameworks, and technical interventions for sustainable cooling solutions is necessary. Candidates should also possess strong analytical skills and experience working with UN agencies or international organizations, with regional experience in West Asia being desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and Arabic is required for this position. This bilingual proficiency is essential for effective communication with stakeholders in both Qatar and Syria, as well as for the preparation of project documents and reports.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of 6 months. The consultant will work closely with the Governments of Qatar and Syria, providing technical assistance and support in developing their respective HPMPs. 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 is committed to ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.