Illustrator for the MangRes Project

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a presence in over 190 countries, UNESCO aims to build peace in the minds of men and women through education, science, culture, and communication. The organization employs thousands of individuals worldwide, working across various sectors to achieve its goals of sustainable development and cultural preservation.

Job Overview:
The position of Illustrator for the MangRes Project is a consulting role that focuses on the creation and development of graphic novel content aimed at promoting mangrove restoration as a nature-based solution in biosphere reserves across Latin America. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Director of Ecological and Earth Sciences and the Programme Specialist in charge of the MangRes Project. The primary responsibilities include updating the book cover for the first volume of the graphic novel 'Visiones del Manglar' and developing three chapters for the second volume. Each chapter will consist of a maximum of 20 pages and will require the creation of illustrations that accurately depict Latin American and Caribbean mangrove species, landscapes, and environments. The consultant is expected to ensure scientific accuracy while engaging with educational and environmental awareness-raising goals. The final deliverables will include print-ready files and digital files for web use, adhering to UNESCO's guidelines and policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Update the book cover for the first volume of the graphic novel 'Visiones del Manglar' according to UNESCO Publications Guidelines.
• Develop three chapters for the second volume of the graphic novel, ensuring each chapter is formatted to A4 size and does not exceed 20 pages.
• Create illustrations for the 2nd and 3rd chapters that align with the project's messaging and themes, depicting relevant mangrove species and environments.
• Ensure scientific accuracy in all illustrations and engage with educational goals.
• Create layouts and integrate approved text into the final design.
• Deliver finalized illustrations for the 2nd and 3rd chapters for review, addressing all feedback from UNESCO.
• Provide print-ready files and digital files for web use.
• Define a cohesive color palette, character design, and artistic technique suitable for the project.
• Comply with UNESCO's guidelines, including Open Access Policy and visual identity requirements. 1
• Sign the applicable Author Contract and Grant of Rights, granting UNESCO the necessary rights for reproduction and distribution of the work.

Required Qualifications:

• A technical degree in Graphic Design, Illustration, Visual Arts, Animation, or a related field is required.
• A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in illustration, graphic novel production, or visual storytelling is essential.
• Experience in illustration for the promotion and protection of biodiversity is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in delivering print-ready files for professional publication is required.
• Previous experience working with international organizations or UN agencies is a plus.
• Advanced proficiency in digital illustration and design software, including Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop, is necessary.
• Understanding of copyright, intellectual property rights, and image licensing requirements is essential.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams is required.
• Ability to prepare high-resolution, print-ready files in multiple formats is necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a technical degree in Graphic Design, Illustration, Visual Arts, Animation, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the principles of design, visual storytelling, and the technical skills required for producing high-quality illustrations and graphic content.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of professional experience in the fields of illustration, graphic novel production, or visual storytelling. Candidates should have a proven track record of delivering high-quality illustrations that meet professional publication standards. Experience in biodiversity-related illustration is particularly valuable, as the role involves creating content that promotes environmental awareness and education.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English and Spanish is likely beneficial given the project's focus on Latin America and the Caribbean. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages to engage with the project's stakeholders and ensure accurate representation of the content.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is a consultant contract at Level 2 - Middle, with a duration of 6 months. The position is open to external candidates and allows for remote work. The application deadline is set for midnight UTC−3 Time on June 1, 202

• Candidates must submit a technical proposal, including a detailed CV and an approach to the task, as well as a financial proposal in USD. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of meeting the objectives outlined in the Terms of Reference and will evaluate proposals based on technical merit and value for money. The organization adheres to a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and encourages applications from individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities.