Individual Contractor

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the designated entity within the United Nations system that addresses environmental issues at both global and regional levels. Established to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, UNEP plays a crucial role in keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it operates in numerous countries worldwide, engaging with various stakeholders to promote environmental awareness and action.

Job Overview:
The Individual Contractor will provide essential administrative and logistical support to the INC Secretariat, facilitating the effective participation of Observer organizations in INC sessions and related activities. This role is pivotal in ensuring that observer registrations and participation processes are managed efficiently, assisting with the administration and tracking of travel support, and providing logistical and organizational support for meetings, webinars, and briefings. The contractor will ensure accurate documentation, timely communication, and smooth operational delivery in accordance with established procedures, thereby contributing to the successful implementation of UNEA resolution 5/14, which focuses on addressing plastic pollution through an international legally binding instrument.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Individual Contractor will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Observer Registrations and Participation Support: Reviewing registrations from Observer organizations to participate in INC sessions according to established criteria, preparing records and summaries of applications for internal review, supporting the approval process for Observer participation, and preparing the List of Participants for INC sessions and other events.
• Travel Support Administration: Assisting in reviewing and documenting requests for travel support from Observer organizations, preparing supporting materials for internal review and approvals, and tracking and maintaining records of approved travel support.
• Meeting and Event Support: Preparing and disseminating logistical and organizational information regarding Observers’ participation in INC sessions, providing in-session logistical support, assisting in organizing webinars, online meetings, and briefings for Observers, and supporting Secretariat leadership during meetings with Observer organizations by taking notes and tracking follow-up actions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in international relations, political science, environmental studies, public administration, social sciences, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in administrative, programme, or stakeholder support functions is required, preferably within an international organization, UN entity, government institution, NGO, or civil society organization. Experience in supporting meetings, consultations, or multistakeholder processes is also necessary. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential, along with the ability to prepare clear summaries, correspondence, and briefing materials under supervision. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, discretion, and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse stakeholders, possess good interpersonal skills, and be able to work effectively as part of a team. Basic analytical skills to compile data, prepare summaries, and support internal reporting are also required, along with proficiency in standard office software such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and virtual meeting platforms.

Educational Background:
A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in fields such as international relations, political science, environmental studies, public administration, social sciences, or a related discipline is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the contractor has the necessary knowledge and understanding of the complex issues related to environmental policy and international relations, which are critical for effectively supporting the INC Secretariat's objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in administrative, programme, or stakeholder support functions. This experience should preferably be within an international organization, UN entity, government institution, NGO, or civil society organization. Candidates should have a proven track record of supporting meetings, consultations, or multistakeholder processes, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex organizational environments and contribute effectively to team objectives.

Languages:
Fluency in English (oral and written) is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. While French is also a working language, proficiency in English is mandatory for effective communication and documentation in this role. Candidates who possess additional language skills may have an advantage, but the primary requirement remains fluency in English.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the contract is 12 months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview meetings, processing, or training. Furthermore, the organization does not concern itself with information regarding applicants’ bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.