Associate Programme Management Officer

Associate Programme Management Officer

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

July 6, 2026July 26, 2026MontrealCanada
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. UNEP was established at the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, Sweden, and has since grown to become a key player in global environmental governance. The organization operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to various environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable development. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Job Overview:
The Associate Programme Management Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation and management of the Programme of Work on Article 8(j) of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). This position involves providing substantive support for the preparation and servicing of meetings of the Conference of Parties and intersessional meetings, particularly focusing on traditional knowledge issues and the program of activities for indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs). The incumbent will manage partnership initiatives, prepare and service meetings, produce and disseminate information related to the program of work, and provide technical advice to Parties and Secretariat staff. The role also includes developing outreach and partnerships, assisting stakeholders in implementing the Convention, contributing to capacity-building activities, and analyzing data to support decision-making processes. The position requires a proactive approach to engage with various stakeholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, to ensure effective implementation of the Convention and its objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Programme Management Officer include:
  • Providing substantive support to the implementation and management of the Programme of Work on Article 8(j), including preparing and servicing meetings, managing partnership initiatives, and producing publications.
  • Developing outreach and partnerships to support the Programme of Work, including maintaining strategic partnerships with IPLCs and NGOs, and disseminating guidelines and training materials.
  • Assisting Parties and stakeholders in implementing the Convention, particularly regarding traditional knowledge, and contributing to awareness-raising activities.
  • Documenting capacity-building activities and developing partnerships with academic institutions related to biodiversity issues.
  • Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making and reporting.
  • Undertaking other activities as assigned by the Programme Officer or Head of the Unit.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Associate Programme Management Officer position include:
  • An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in indigenous affairs, public policy, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law, education, or a biodiversity-related area. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
  • Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.
  • Strong knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts, and approaches relevant to biodiversity, environmental management, and international environmental policy.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in a relevant field such as indigenous affairs, public policy, environmental law, education, or a biodiversity-related area. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered desirable for this position.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in programme or project management, policy development, environmental governance, or engagement with indigenous peoples and local communities is required. Candidates should have experience in supporting the implementation of international programmes related to biodiversity, sustainable development, or traditional knowledge. Experience in conducting research, analysis, and preparing technical or policy documents for international processes is also necessary. Furthermore, candidates should have experience in organizing international meetings and workshops involving multiple stakeholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities. Desirable experience includes one year or more in data analytics or related fields, as well as experience within the United Nations system or another international organization.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in both languages is required. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum level of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for both English and French, as per the UN Language Framework. This includes UN Level II proficiency for both languages, indicating a strong command of the languages necessary for effective communication in a professional environment.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as a fixed-term appointment limited (FTA-limited) in accordance with UN administrative instructions. Candidates should be aware that the recruitment process does not involve any fees at any stage, and the United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.
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