Individual Contractor (IC) for Policy Support

Job Posting Organization:
The UN sustainable-development-office" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Sustainable Development Office (UNOSD) is part of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and was established in 201

• The organization is dedicated to supporting UN Member States in accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With over ten years of experience, UNOSD has organized more than 150 capacity-building and policy research activities, engaging over 4,000 policymakers globally. The office focuses on providing policy advisory services and is strategically positioned within the UN system to leverage a vast network of development experts and practitioners. UNOSD's mission includes supporting developing countries, particularly those in special situations such as Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), and Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs).

Job Overview:
The Individual Contractor (IC) will play a crucial role in implementing activities aimed at strengthening the enabling environment for policy support to achieve the SDGs. The IC will focus on key policy areas such as waste management, water and sanitation, and climate action, particularly in developing countries. The role involves building capacity in alignment with various SDGs, including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). The IC will conduct policy research, data analysis, and capacity-building initiatives to assist developing countries in addressing critical issues related to these goals. The contractor will also coordinate policy support activities, including workshops and meetings, to ensure the success of UNOSD's mission in assisting Member States.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The IC will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: 1) Preparing documents and reports, including drafting statements and PowerPoint presentations for workshops and meetings. 2) Participating in key international, regional, and national meetings, providing substantive inputs on sustainable development issues. 3) Supporting the development of joint initiatives, including organizing field missions and training sessions in collaboration with UNOSD staff. 4) Assisting in drafting evidence-based Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) proposals based on Member State requests. 5) Producing data-driven summary reports that integrate inputs from policy advisory support and sharing stories of impact for broader dissemination. 6) Undertaking additional tasks as assigned by the Head of Office related to the office's responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in sustainable development, economics, public policy, public administration, environmental protection, natural resources management, social sciences, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level degree (bachelor’s degree) with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Candidates should have over seven years of international experience in sustainable development at either the international or national level, with a strong background in research, analysis, monitoring, reporting, technical assistance, capacity building, or policy advisory services related to the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs. Experience in conducting policy advisory missions to least developed countries and supporting intergovernmental bodies in sustainable development is also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in relevant fields such as sustainable development, economics, public policy, public administration, environmental protection, natural resources management, or social sciences is required. A first-level degree with additional relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have over seven years of international experience in sustainable development, with a focus on policy advisory services, technical assistance, and capacity building. Experience in conducting policy advisory missions to least developed countries and working within the UN system is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this position. Strong communication skills are essential for engaging with senior staff and developing presentations.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for 9 months. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair hiring process.