National Officer (NOC) - Natural Sciences

National Officer (NOC) - Natural Sciences

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

August 4, 2026September 1, 2026SantiagoChile
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which was established in 194
  • UNESCO's mission is to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. Its core values include commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which guide its operations and interactions with member states and stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The National Officer (NOC) for Natural Sciences will be responsible for supporting the implementation of UNESCO's science programs and activities in Chile, particularly focusing on ecological earth sciences, water sciences, science policy, capacity building, local and indigenous knowledge systems, and disaster risk reduction. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Santiago and will be tasked with positioning UNESCO’s science mandate within the regional agenda. This role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including member states, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, and educational institutions, to advance the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The position requires a proactive approach to design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, planning, and monitoring, ensuring that UNESCO's objectives are met effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will assist in the design, planning, implementation, and monitoring of programs related to UNESCO's Sciences Sector, funded by both Regular and Extra Budgetary resources. Key responsibilities include: monitoring the implementation of UNESCO's program activities to advance and apply sciences in member states; maintaining close contacts with regional, national, and local authorities; contributing to the development of national science policies; supporting the implementation of science-related programs in partnership with member states; interacting with various stakeholders including Programme Specialists, donors, NGOs, and government ministries; identifying and designing extrabudgetary projects to enhance the Office's Regular Programme activities; contributing to resource mobilization efforts; and assisting in joint programming and delivery within the framework of UN Reform. The incumbent will also prepare inputs for Programme and Budget documents and contribute to reports on organizational activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Natural Science or a related field such as Environment, Ecology, Hydrology, Earth Sciences, or Engineering. Additionally, a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in project and program implementation is required, with at least four years of progressively responsible experience in the field of Natural Science, preferably including two years at the international level. Experience in planning, designing, managing, implementing, and evaluating programs and projects relevant to UNESCO’s mandate is essential, along with skills in fundraising and resource mobilization.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Natural Science or a related field is required. A PhD in Natural Sciences, Engineering, or a related field is considered a desirable qualification, enhancing the candidate's profile for this position.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience, with at least four years in the field of Natural Science. Candidates should have experience in project and program implementation, including planning, designing, managing, and evaluating relevant programs. Experience at the international level is preferred, particularly in roles that involve fundraising and building strategic partnerships.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English (spoken and written) is mandatory, along with native knowledge of Spanish. Knowledge of French and/or Portuguese is considered desirable and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration is for 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance results and availability of funds. The position is full-time and requires in-person attendance in Santiago. Only candidates with Chilean nationality or permission to work in Chile will be considered. UNESCO emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy against harassment and encourages applications from individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities. The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years, and the organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the hiring process.
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