Consultant for Biodiversity Project

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 through various divisions, including the Industry and Economy Division, which focuses on providing solutions to decision-makers and changing the business environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and has a global presence, working in numerous countries to address environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for drafting the CEO Endorsement Request package for the GBFF project titled 'Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Productive Sectors: Responsible Sand Value Chain for Coastal Resilience in West Africa.' This role involves developing a detailed Project Workplan and Timetable, formulating a Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, and ensuring that project indicators align with GEF-style projects. The consultant will also be tasked with updating Project Financing Tables and revising project sections based on feedback from GEFSec. The position requires close coordination with national executing agencies in Liberia and The Gambia, and the consultant will work under the supervision of UNEP’s Mineral Unit, which focuses on responsible and sustainable minerals and metals value chains.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include:

• Developing a detailed Project Workplan and Timetable to support the implementation timeline required in the Project Description.
• Describing the Core Indicators to be delivered by the project at the national levels.
• Outlining the project’s approach to Knowledge Management, including plans for learning from other relevant projects and initiatives, and documenting and sharing lessons learned with stakeholders.
• Formulating the project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan, including a Projects Result Framework and Budget to track project progress and effectiveness.
• Updating Project Financing Tables to show the costs of the project Outcomes and Outputs.
• Conducting a final revision of key sections to ensure alignment with GEF-style projects, with support from the International Consultant – Coordinator of PPG Activities.
• Reviewing and making alterations to the project based on feedback from GEFSec, again with support from the International Consultant.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master’s degree in environmental sciences, international development, or a relevant political or social sciences area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, protected areas management, natural resources, climate change, or a related field is required. Demonstrable experience in the development and design of GEF projects and/or programmes is also necessary, along with experience in project development, implementation, management, and monitoring and evaluation of sustainable development projects, particularly in biodiversity and ecosystem management.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in environmental sciences, international development, or other relevant fields. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by two additional years of relevant professional experience. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental issues and the necessary approaches to address them effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in fields related to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, protected areas management, natural resources, and climate change. Candidates should have demonstrable experience in developing and designing GEF projects and/or programmes, as well as experience in managing and evaluating sustainable development projects, particularly in biodiversity and ecosystem management. This level of experience is essential for ensuring that the consultant can effectively contribute to the project’s objectives and deliverables.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of French and/or Spanish is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with stakeholders in various regions, particularly in West Africa where the project is focused.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 3 months, starting on 23 April 2026 and concluding on 23 July 202

• The position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work location. 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. This policy ensures that the recruitment process is fair and accessible to all candidates.