UNEP Integrated Energy Systems Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the international environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees and operations in more than 100 countries, UNEP plays a crucial role in shaping policies and practices that foster sustainable development and environmental protection globally.

Job Overview:
The UNEP Integrated Energy Systems Consultant will support the UNEP Buildings and Cooling Unit in developing a global program and partnership focused on Local Energy System Integration for an Affordable & Resilient Energy Transition. This role involves coordinating various workstreams related to cooling, buildings, district energy, transport, renewables, and energy transition. The consultant will provide technical assistance to countries on integrated and decentralized energy system planning and implementation, emphasizing the importance of city and regional integrated energy planning. Key responsibilities include conducting research and drafting a global publication, creating knowledge products and case studies, preparing partnership engagement recommendations, developing training materials, and providing technical guidance to countries and cities. Additionally, the consultant will design program activities and offer technical expertise for an implementation project in Ukraine, as well as support other ongoing and planned projects in different regions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include:

• Conducting comprehensive research and analysis on local energy system integration and its implications for affordable and resilient energy transitions.
• Developing a draft global publication that synthesizes findings and recommendations for stakeholders.
• Creating knowledge products and case studies that highlight best practices and innovative approaches in energy system integration.
• Preparing partnership engagement recommendations to foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and private sector actors.
• Designing and developing training materials aimed at enhancing the capacity of city planners and policymakers in energy system planning.
• Providing technical assistance and guidance to countries and cities in implementing integrated energy systems.
• Preparing fundraising proposals to secure financial support for ongoing and future projects.
• Offering technical expertise for the implementation project in Ukraine and providing support for other projects in different geographies.
• Engaging with global events to present findings and share knowledge on energy system integration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of four years of relevant work experience, particularly in areas such as urban energy, energy planning, district cooling/heating, smart grids, building energy efficiency, and energy policy. Strong written and oral communication skills on energy, urban, and environmental topics are essential, along with a high level of proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Familiarity with project management best practices is crucial, and practical experience in energy policy analysis within developing countries is required. The qualifying years of experience will be calculated from the date of obtaining the first level university degree recognized by the United Nations.

Educational Background:
A first-level university degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, energy management, urban planning, or a related discipline is required. Advanced degrees are preferred and may be considered an asset in evaluating candidates' qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of professional experience in fields related to urban energy, energy planning, and policy analysis. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in working with decentralized energy systems and an understanding of the challenges and opportunities in developing countries regarding energy transition.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is mandatory for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN language would be considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse international environment.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of this consultancy is three months, and the position is remote, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process. Candidates should be aware that the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.