Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and operates in over 150 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to environmental issues. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges on a global scale.

Job Overview:
The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Specialist position is situated within UNEP's Industry and Economy Division, specifically in the Industry Innovation Branch, Materials and Systems Innovation Unit. The incumbent will be responsible for engaging in technical and scientific discussions with global experts in LCA, presenting UNEP's work at conferences, and ensuring the smooth operation of LCA data hosting. The role involves conducting research on LCA projects, contributing to program development, preparing written outputs, organizing meetings, and participating in outreach activities. The specialist will also coordinate budget-related activities and analyze data to support decision-making processes. This position is critical for enhancing the application of life-cycle approaches in sustainable development agendas, aiming to achieve global sustainability goals more efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the LCA Specialist include managing technical discussions with experts in LCA, ensuring the functionality of LCA data hosting, conducting research on LCA projects, contributing to program development and evaluation, preparing various written outputs, organizing meetings and conferences, participating in outreach activities, coordinating budget-related tasks, and analyzing data for insights. The specialist will also be responsible for identifying problems and recommending corrective actions, liaising with relevant parties, and tracking follow-up actions. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a thorough understanding of sustainability theories and life-cycle approaches, including LCA data management and formats. They should have the ability to work with LCA applications in product design and economy-wide assessments. Strong analytical skills, the ability to conduct independent research, and effective communication skills are essential. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and planning and organizing capabilities, with a commitment to gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Environmental Sciences, Engineering, Sustainability assessment of production and consumption systems, Industrial Ecology, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in the relevant field 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 two years of progressively responsible experience in project management applying life-cycle approaches to Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) or circular economy is required. Candidates should have experience in LCA data management and formats, as well as proficiency in using major software packages related to LCA. Experience in conveying results to policymakers and working with international organizations is desirable, along with at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related area.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Proficiency in both languages will enhance communication and collaboration within the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year, subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as fixed-term appointment limited (FTA-limited). The United Nations Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. All applicants must ensure their profiles are complete and up to date, as this information is crucial for the assessment of eligibility and suitability for the position. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.