International Contractor

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. Established in 1972, UNEP operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees. Its mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to advocate for the global environment.

Job Overview:
The International Contractor will work within the framework of the 'Vanishing Treasures' project, specifically focusing on its Virunga component and related initiatives. This role involves providing support for the implementation of the project, which aims to enhance climate change adaptation for vulnerable mountain species and promote biodiversity conservation. The contractor will be stationed in the Biodiversity, People and Landscapes Unit of UNEP's Ecosystems Division in Nairobi, Kenya, and will report to the Programme Management Officer responsible for the Vanishing Treasures project. The contractor's work will include collaboration with key partners in the Greater Virunga Landscape, conducting research, providing policy support, and contributing to various written outputs related to ecosystem restoration and wildlife conservation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the International Contractor include:

• Collaborating with partners and stakeholders in the Greater Virunga Landscape to facilitate the development, implementation, and monitoring of the Vanishing Treasures project and related initiatives.
• Conducting basic research on project-related topics, including collecting and analyzing data on mountain biodiversity and wildlife.
• Supporting policy coordination and monitoring functions, including reviewing emerging issues and participating in project monitoring missions.
• Assisting in the preparation of background documents and facilitating discussions at meetings and conferences.
• Contributing to the drafting of various written outputs, such as reports and analytical notes, focusing on ecosystem restoration and wildlife conservation.
• Engaging in communication and outreach activities, including developing training workshops and making presentations.
• Analyzing data trends and providing insights through data visualization methods.
• Performing other duties as required, including conducting field missions and organizing regional consultation meetings.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in primate conservation, conservation biology, or a related field. A first-level university degree with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Candidates must have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project/programme management, with specific experience in the Greater Virunga Landscape and stakeholder engagement across various sectors. Experience in great ape conservation is essential, while experience in managing multi-country projects within biodiversity conservation or ecosystem restoration is desirable. Additionally, experience in developing innovative financing tools for biodiversity conservation is a plus.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as primate conservation or conservation biology. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of biodiversity conservation and project management in the context of the Vanishing Treasures project.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management. Candidates should have experience working specifically in the Greater Virunga Landscape, which includes engagement with government, civil society, and transboundary organizations. Experience in great ape conservation is mandatory, and familiarity with managing multi-country projects in biodiversity conservation or ecosystem restoration is desirable. Additionally, experience in developing innovative financing tools for biodiversity conservation will be considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English is required for this position, as it is the official working language of the United Nations. A working knowledge of another UN language is advantageous, and knowledge of local languages spoken in Kenya is also beneficial.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for 12 months. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Candidates should be aware that the UN does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.