Sustainable Cooling Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is a leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to encompass a wide range of environmental issues, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff members, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to address pressing environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Sustainable Cooling Expert will play a crucial role in supporting the Cool Coalition under the Mitigation Branch of UNEP. This position focuses on accelerating efforts to promote sustainable, efficient, and climate-friendly cooling solutions in the Asia-Pacific region. The expert will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies that support the delivery and replication of pilot projects across various countries in the region. This includes engaging with partners and governments to build commitments towards sustainable cooling, translating these commitments into actionable programs, and supporting the development of knowledge products and training initiatives. The consultant will also be tasked with developing funding proposals aimed at enhancing passive cooling and climate-friendly cooling initiatives, thereby fostering partnerships and stakeholder engagement to facilitate cooperation frameworks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of technical and analytical tasks as part of the Cooling and Buildings Unit within UNEP's Climate Change Division. Key responsibilities include providing strategic expertise to scale up UNEP's activities related to climate-friendly cooling and sustainable materials. The consultant will engage in fundraising efforts, advocacy, and outreach, while also providing technical guidance and support for policy dialogues and financing strategies. Specific duties include reviewing project deliverables, designing country implementation programs, evaluating needs for sustainable cooling, and sharing best practices among UNEP projects. The consultant will also organize and support regional events, training sessions, and ensure alignment of UNEP activities with other internal programs and partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess postgraduate qualifications in fields such as sustainable urban planning, architecture, civil engineering, or environmental studies. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. A minimum of eight years of experience in sustainable urban planning, urban heat mapping, GIS, and green buildings is required. Expertise in technology, financing, and regulatory frameworks related to urban cooling is highly advantageous. Experience in stakeholder engagement and partnership building, particularly with governments and cities in the Asia-Pacific region, is essential.

Educational Background:
The position requires a postgraduate degree in sustainable urban planning, architecture, landscape planning, civil engineering, building science, environmental studies, or a related field. Candidates with a first-level university degree and additional qualifying experience may also be considered. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in the principles of sustainable development and environmental management.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least eight years of relevant professional experience, particularly in areas related to sustainable urban planning, urban heat mapping, and passive cooling. Experience in engaging with multiple stakeholders, including governments and cities, on projects related to passive cooling in the Asia-Pacific region is highly desirable. The experience should be calculated from the date of obtaining the first-level university degree recognized by the United Nations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, given that it is another working language of the organization. Strong communication skills in both languages will facilitate effective collaboration and engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for 12 months, and it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. This includes application, interview, and training phases. The organization is committed to ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process, and it does not request any financial information from applicants.