Sustainable Environmental Management Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Established as part of the United Nations system, OHCHR plays a crucial role in advocating for universal human dignity and the enforcement of human rights norms. The organization is led by the High Commissioner for Human Rights, who oversees its operations and initiatives. OHCHR's mission includes strengthening international human rights mechanisms, enhancing equality, combating impunity, and integrating human rights into development. The office operates in various countries, focusing on issues such as good governance, inclusive development, and humanitarian protection, and aims to ensure compliance with international human rights treaties.

Job Overview:
The Sustainable Environmental Management Specialist position is part of the OHCHR East and Southern Africa Regional Hub (ESARH), which is focused on promoting and protecting human rights, particularly in relation to environmental issues. The role emphasizes the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, recognizing the significant impact of climate change and environmental degradation on human rights. The specialist will be involved in implementing sustainable environmental management practices to reduce the environmental footprint of OHCHR operations. This includes engaging with staff, conducting research, and supporting the integration of environmental considerations into programming related to economic, social, and cultural rights. The position also involves collaboration with various stakeholders to advance the organization's environmental sustainability policy and promote environmental rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Sustainable Environmental Management Specialist will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Implementing OHCHR’s environmental sustainability policy through staff engagement and capacity-building initiatives.
• Supporting the preparation, collection, and reporting of greenhouse gas (GHG) data for the ESARH and its country presences, in line with the UN Sustainability Strategy.
• Coordinating office-wide advocacy efforts related to sustainable environmental management and human rights, including conducting environmental assessments and audits.
• Researching and collecting information on the Right to a Healthy Environment (R2HE) and its implications for human rights, providing timely updates and analysis.
• Assisting in drafting reports and correspondence related to R2HE and environmental sustainability.
• Conducting regional mapping and comparative analysis of environmental human rights trends across East Africa.
• Engaging with government counterparts, the African Union, UN partners, and civil society organizations to promote environmental rights and initiatives.
• Supporting the work of human rights mechanisms, including treaty bodies and special procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Sustainable Environmental Management Specialist position should possess a strong understanding of human rights and environmental issues. They should demonstrate accountability, adaptability, creativity, and professionalism. The ability to work in teams and respect diversity is essential. Strong judgment and decision-making skills, along with effective planning and organizing capabilities, are also required. Candidates should be able to manage their time effectively and demonstrate self-management skills in a dynamic work environment.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should ideally hold a degree in environmental science, human rights, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in sustainable development or environmental management would be advantageous. Knowledge of international human rights law and environmental policies is also important.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a solid level of experience in human rights, environmental management, or related fields. Previous experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of human rights and environmental issues, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of conducting research, drafting reports, and engaging with diverse stakeholders. Experience in capacity building and advocacy related to environmental sustainability is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the East African region, would be considered an asset. Proficiency in languages such as French or Arabic could enhance communication with various stakeholders and broaden the impact of the role.

Additional Notes:
This is a national UN Volunteer assignment, meaning that the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. National UN Volunteers are covered by the CIGNA insurance plan, and further details regarding entitlements can be found on the UNV website. The position is expected to contribute significantly to the OHCHR's efforts in promoting environmental sustainability and human rights in the region.