UNEP Programme Management Officer - Mining, Minerals and Metals

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and aims to encourage decision-makers in government, local authorities, and industry to develop and adopt policies, strategies, and practices that promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production. The organization focuses on making efficient use of natural resources, ensuring safe management of chemicals, and contributing to mutually supportive trade and environment policies. UNEP's Industry and Economy Division specifically works on promoting the development, use, and transfer of policies, technologies, economic instruments, managerial practices, and other tools that assist in environmentally sound decision-making. The organization operates globally, with a mission to foster sustainable development through sound environmental practices and policies.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Programme Management Officer for Mining, Minerals, and Metals will be responsible for leading the development and supervision of Global Environment Facility (GEF) projects focused on artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) and mercury mining. This role involves identifying, developing, and approving high-quality new projects that align with UNEP's strategic priorities and respond to the needs expressed by governments and partners. The incumbent will establish and maintain the legal and operational delivery structure for projects, ensuring compliance with fiduciary standards and supporting project closure. Additionally, the officer will provide technical guidance to UNEP's Mining projects and contribute to the High Impact Sector Team's work areas. The position requires collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for data-driven planning and decision-making. The officer will also support private sector engagement and ensure that project outputs meet quality assurance standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and supervision of GEF projects related to ASGM and mercury mining, ensuring alignment with UNEP's strategic priorities.
• Establish and maintain the legal and operational delivery structure for projects, including preparing legal agreements with project Executing Agencies and conducting due diligence assessments.
• Supervise Executing Agencies to ensure project delivery meets agreed targets and compliance standards.
• Provide quality assurance for technical outputs and deliverables of GEF projects, including reviewing reports and leading corrective actions when necessary.
• Contribute to technical guidance for UNEP Mining projects and align GEF project inputs with UNEP publications and communication materials.
• Support private sector engagement and knowledge sharing to scale up innovative solutions.
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making and reporting.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in earth sciences, environmental sciences, environmental management, chemistry, metallurgy, engineering, or economic and social studies.
• A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
• Relevant training in Project Management is required.
• Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as earth sciences, environmental sciences, environmental management, chemistry, metallurgy, engineering, or economic and social studies. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) along with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Additional training in data analytics or related fields is also desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible work experience at the international level related to the minerals, mining, and metals (3Ms) value chain is required. Candidates should have experience in developing and implementing international environmental programs in developing countries and managing sustainability projects aimed at reducing mining pollution. Familiarity with the Global Environment Facility project cycle is essential, and experience working with the private sector on sustainable metals and mining solutions is desirable. Two or more years of experience in data analytics or a related area is also preferred.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Desirable languages include Spanish, French, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin), and Arabic, with varying levels of proficiency required for each language.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is limited to the United Nations Environment Programme and is for an initial period of one year, subject to extension. External candidates selected will receive a fixed-term appointment limited to the entity. All external candidates recruited for a fixed-term appointment are subject to an initial probationary period of one year. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.