Chief, Climate Change Section

Chief, Climate Change Section

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

September 24, 2026October 19, 2026MontrealCanada
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 194
  • Its mission is to ensure safe, secure, and sustainable development of civil aviation worldwide. ICAO has 193 member states and works with various stakeholders to develop international standards and regulations for aviation safety, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, efficiency, and environmental protection. The organization operates globally, with a focus on promoting the environmental sustainability of aviation, particularly in addressing climate change issues.

Job Overview:
The Chief of the Climate Change Section will lead and manage work programs aimed at reducing the environmental impact of aviation greenhouse gas emissions. This role involves developing policies, conducting studies, and providing guidance on measures to address aviation's contribution to climate change. The incumbent will oversee the implementation of ICAO's global aspirational goals, including Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). The position requires collaboration with other UN bodies and international organizations, as well as support for ICAO's Assembly and Council. The Chief will supervise staff, manage resources, and ensure the quality of services delivered by the Section.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead and manage work programs related to ICAO's regulatory framework for reducing aviation's environmental impact, including analysis, planning, and reporting on climate change projects.
  • Build partnerships with international organizations and industry to address climate change issues.
  • Represent ICAO at UN meetings and ensure civil aviation interests are reflected in international discussions.
  • Supervise the development of outreach products related to aviation and climate change.
  • Monitor work relevant to ICAO on aviation cleaner energies and carbon markets.
  • Ensure timely provision of inputs to the Council and CEC regarding CORSIA implementation.
  • Facilitate the operations of the ICAO CORSIA Central Registry and coordinate with stakeholders for data submission.
  • Conduct environmental and economic impact assessments of market-based measures.
  • Coordinate the development of SAF and LCAF frameworks and promote globally recognized certification schemes. 1
  • Organize ICAO's assistance and capacity-building activities under ACT-CORSIA and ACT-SAF, providing support to States. 1
  • Manage the Climate Change Section, ensuring alignment with ICAO's strategic goals and effective resource management.

Required Qualifications:
  • Extensive knowledge of international environmental policies, particularly those related to climate change and aviation.
  • Familiarity with ICAO Assembly Resolutions and Annex 16, as well as aviation cleaner energies and CORSIA.
  • Proficiency in project management tools and methods.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences.
  • Proven leadership abilities, including the capacity to empower others and drive change.
  • Strong accountability and performance management skills, with a focus on achieving results.

Educational Background:
An advanced level university degree (Masters’ degree or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental policy, environmental economics, aeronautical/environmental engineering, public administration, international affairs, or a related discipline is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be acceptable in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in international aviation and climate change is required. This includes experience within a national government, international organization, or relevant research institution. Demonstrated experience in environmental project implementation and providing assistance to State authorities is essential. Desirable experience includes familiarity with ICAO Annexes related to environmental protection and energy, as well as conducting negotiations at the international level.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is to be filled on a fixed-term basis for an initial period of 3 years, with the first year being probationary for external candidates. ICAO staff members are international civil servants and may be assigned to various activities or offices within the organization. The position offers an attractive benefits package in accordance with the policies of the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC). The statutory retirement age for staff entering service after January 1, 2014, is 6
  • The net base salary for this position is USD $92,731 per annum, plus a post adjustment of USD $44,325, which is subject to change.
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