Senior Programme Officer

Senior Programme Officer

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

June 1, 2026June 19, 2026KyivUkraine
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established to address the critical environmental challenges facing the world, UNEP works with various partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services aimed at strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries, especially those in crisis-affected situations. UNEP operates in numerous countries worldwide, engaging in a wide range of environmental issues and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Officer will play a pivotal role in the Ecosystems Division's Disasters and Conflicts Branch, located in Kyiv, Ukraine. This position involves leading the development, implementation, and evaluation of assigned programmes and projects, ensuring that they align with UNEP's strategic objectives. The officer will direct subordinates in various aspects of programme/project management, including monitoring and assessment, while also identifying priorities and proposing corrective actions. A significant aspect of the role includes ensuring gender mainstreaming in all planned actions, assessing implications for both men and women across all levels. The officer will coordinate policy development, engage in research and programme evaluation, and manage outreach activities, including training workshops and seminars. The position requires a proactive approach to establishing partnerships and resource mobilization, as well as leading field missions and providing technical assistance in various countries. The Senior Programme Officer will also oversee budget and funding activities, ensuring the effective utilization and development of staff, and will serve as a spokesperson for UNEP, establishing collaborations with key officials both inside and outside the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Officer include: leading the development and evaluation of programmes/projects; directing subordinates in project management; ensuring gender mainstreaming in all actions; coordinating policy development and strategic engagements; conducting research and evaluations; supervising the preparation of written outputs; managing outreach activities and training workshops; leading field missions and technical assistance delivery; coordinating budget and funding activities; serving as a spokesperson; ensuring effective staff utilization and development; identifying partnership opportunities; and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a proven knowledge and understanding of theories and concepts relevant to environmental emergency response. They should demonstrate the ability to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making and convey information effectively to management. Professionalism, client orientation, planning and organizing skills, leadership qualities, and sound judgment are essential competencies for this role. The candidate should show a commitment to achieving results and maintaining high standards of efficiency and integrity.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in environmental science, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, management, economics, humanitarian affairs, or political science is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in environmental project and programme management at the country or local level is required. At least three years of work experience in environmental emergency response and assessments in humanitarian, fragile, or conflict contexts is essential. Proven experience in successful fundraising for environmental projects and programmes is desirable, as is work experience within the United Nations or similar international organizations. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also advantageous.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, also requiring a minimum proficiency of UN Level II in all language skills. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for specific details on language proficiency levels.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position will be available from 5 March 202
  • The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. All applicants are advised to apply online as soon as possible after the job opening has been posted and well before the stated deadline. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
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