Programme Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNESCO, which stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Established in 1945, UNESCO aims to promote peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. The organization has a global presence, operating in over 190 countries with a workforce of more than 2,000 employees. UNESCO is committed to fostering sustainable development and cultural diversity, and it plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, education inequality, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Job Overview:
The Programme Coordinator position is situated within the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, specifically focusing on the technical and scientific coordination of the Ocean Biodiversity Information System (OBIS). The incumbent will be responsible for implementing and maintaining the IOC data and information exchange system, ensuring that it aligns with UNESCO’s Medium Term Strategy and the IOC’s objectives. This role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the OBIS Programme Specialist and other teams within the IOC, to establish program goals, manage budgets, and oversee the technical implementation of the OBIS work plan. The position is pivotal in enhancing the interoperability of ocean data systems and supporting Member States in their data management efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Programme Coordination and Management: Collaborate with the Head of Section and OBIS Programme Specialist to set technical program goals, develop activity plans, and create budget proposals. Ensure the technical maintenance and development of the OBIS technology stack and infrastructure. Manage the implementation of the OBIS work plan and provide support to technical and scientific working groups. Collaborate with IOC teams to ensure data interoperability and provide guidance on biological and ecosystem data. Develop tools and standards for users, including Member State representatives, and assist with technical support for IODE databases.
• Resource Mobilization and Contractor Engagement: Draft technical and scientific aspects of extra-budgetary project proposals and oversee the implementation of approved projects. Monitor and evaluate the progress of contractors providing technical support.
• Networking and Outreach: Participate in meetings of IODE mandated groups and assist in promoting OBIS through effective communication strategies. Support additional IOC and IODE initiatives as required, ensuring alignment with the IOC strategy and implementation plan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as information technology, computer science, environmental, marine, or biological sciences. A solid understanding of data informatics and related areas is essential. Candidates should demonstrate good analytical, organizational, and coordination skills, with the ability to produce accessible reports on scientific and technical issues. Excellent liaison and teamwork skills are necessary, along with the ability to monitor project feasibility and identify potential collaborations.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) is required, preferably in information technology, computer science, environmental, marine, or biological sciences. A PhD in a related field is considered a desirable qualification, enhancing the candidate's profile for this position.

Experience:
A minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in data informatics or a related area is required, with at least two years of experience at the international level being preferred. Experience in IT web-enabled scientific database development and management is crucial, as well as familiarity with biodiversity informatics and statistical analysis of biodiversity data. Experience with cloud computing platforms and project management is also beneficial.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both spoken and written, is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of two years, with the possibility of renewal. The role is open to both internal and external candidates. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is USD 107,430, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. Candidates must complete an online application by the specified deadline, and the selection process may involve video interviews, written assessments, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups.