Extreme Heat Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is a leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes sustainable development through sound environmental practices. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy, working with countries and organizations worldwide to address pressing environmental challenges. With a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable resource management.

Job Overview:
The position of Extreme Heat Expert is crucial for supporting UNEP in the design and implementation of global and country-specific programs aimed at addressing extreme heat and promoting sustainable cooling solutions. The expert will play a pivotal role in evaluating the urban heat island effect and developing strategies for cities to adapt to rising temperatures. This includes enhancing urban planning, implementing nature-based solutions, promoting passive cooling techniques, and establishing effective heat governance frameworks. The expert will engage with various stakeholders, including government entities, industry leaders, and academic institutions, to provide insights and best practices that will be integrated into national and subnational policies, planning guidelines, and training programs. The role is remote-based, allowing for flexibility while ensuring that the expert can effectively contribute to UNEP's initiatives, particularly in the context of the India Urban Cooling Program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks that encompass organizational, technical, and analytical responsibilities within the Buildings and Cooling Unit of UNEP's Mitigation Branch. Key duties include supporting the global design and implementation of country projects focused on sustainable urban cooling and extreme heat adaptation, particularly under the Cool Coalition framework. The consultant will engage with partners and cities to enhance subnational commitments to sustainable cooling, especially in India. Responsibilities also involve providing technical inputs, conducting training sessions, and facilitating policy dialogues and technical assessments related to sustainable cooling and extreme heat in urban settings. The consultant will collaborate with UNEP's global teams, the UNEP India office, and national ministries to develop and deliver support programs for cities facing extreme heat challenges. This includes creating and executing training programs on the impacts of extreme heat, integrating heat adaptation strategies into climate and urban planning, and assisting in the preparation of funding proposals for initiatives related to extreme heat and sustainable cooling. Additionally, the consultant will support global engagement with technical partners and cities involved in the Beat the Heat Initiative and the Nature for Cooling project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess postgraduate qualifications in fields such as architecture, urban planning, environmental engineering, energy, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A minimum of 15 years of relevant work experience is required, with a strong emphasis on extreme heat, cooling technologies, urban planning, and environmental issues. Practical experience in India is essential, particularly in areas such as policy analysis and design, city engagement, and urban heat island analysis. Experience collaborating with various ministries, states, cities, and international organizations is also crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a postgraduate degree in architecture, urban planning, environmental engineering, energy, or a related field. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying experience to meet the educational requirements. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of urban planning and environmental management in the context of extreme heat and sustainable cooling.

Experience:
The position requires a substantial level of experience, specifically a minimum of 15 years in relevant fields. Candidates should have a proven track record in areas related to extreme heat, cooling technologies, urban planning, and environmental management. Practical experience in India is particularly important, as it involves engaging with local policies, city planning, and the urban heat island effect. The experience should also include working with diverse stakeholders, including government ministries, state authorities, cities, and international organizations, to effectively address the challenges posed by extreme heat and to promote sustainable cooling solutions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, knowledge of French is beneficial, as it is also a working language within the UN system. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with various stakeholders involved in the initiatives led by UNEP.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote-based, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The expected duration of the consultancy is 12 months, providing a significant opportunity for the consultant to contribute to important projects addressing extreme heat and sustainable cooling. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This policy ensures that the recruitment process is accessible and fair for all candidates.