UNESCO Project Officer - Sciences

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture. Established in 1945, UNESCO has a mission to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO's core values include commitment to the organization, integrity, respect for diversity, and professionalism, which guide its operations and interactions with member states and partners.

Job Overview:
The UNESCO Project Officer for Sciences will play a pivotal role in the execution of the Sciences Programme in Brazil, under the authority of the Director and Representative of UNESCO to Brazil. This position involves direct supervision and technical guidance from the Sciences Coordinator. The incumbent will serve as the focal point for various themes related to the Sciences Programme, focusing on project execution, mobilizing partnerships, and securing extrabudgetary resources. The role requires fostering collaboration with government entities, academic institutions, civil society, and the private sector. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing projects in areas such as natural sciences, climate change, water management, hard sciences, innovation, and technology. The position also entails providing technical and operational inputs for the design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of projects, ensuring alignment with established priorities and guidelines. The Project Officer will support the Programme Coordinator in mapping the development stage of topics under UNESCO's mandate and contribute to the preparation of planning documents and management tools.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the UNESCO Project Officer include:

• Supporting the Sciences Programme Coordinator in identifying development needs and technical cooperation opportunities in Brazil.
• Contributing to the preparation of the Brasilia Office’s framework and planning documents.
• Acting as project officer in the Sciences sector, overseeing project design, management, and implementation phases.
• Preparing project proposals and revisions, suggesting intersectoral activities, and identifying South-South cooperation opportunities.
• Monitoring project implementation and analyzing outputs to ensure quality and effectiveness.
• Providing technical value to projects by offering strategic solutions based on UNESCO expertise.
• Organizing and revising content for publications and technical documents.
• Preparing technical presentations, reports, and papers as required.
• Participating in meetings and technical groups as directed. 1
• Conducting negotiations with donors and partners to secure funding and support. 1
• Identifying new project opportunities, particularly with the private sector. 1
• Supporting the sector coordinator in monitoring intergovernmental programmes of UNESCO. 1
• Evaluating and disseminating best practices in the field of Sciences. 1
• Performing any additional tasks necessary for the success of the Sciences sector.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (equivalent to a Master's or Post-graduate studies) in Natural Sciences (such as biology, water management, engineering, or science and technology) or related fields (including international relations, public management, and project management). Alternatively, a combination of a first university degree with an additional 4 to 6 years of post-qualification work experience is acceptable. Candidates must possess a minimum of 8 years of work experience in science, technology, or environmental programmes, with substantial experience in project management and/or public policies related to natural sciences. Previous experience within the UN System, international cooperation organizations, governmental institutions, NGOs, or private sector companies is highly valued.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree, which is equivalent to a Master's degree or higher, in relevant fields such as Natural Sciences, International Relations, Public Management, or Project Management. A first university degree combined with significant work experience may also be considered equivalent. Specialized training or courses in fields related to this position are desirable.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience in science, technology, or environmental programmes. Candidates should have solid experience in project management and public policies within the field of natural sciences, including areas such as water management, biodiversity programmes, and science, technology, and innovation initiatives. Experience within the UN System or other international cooperation organizations is highly regarded.

Languages:
Proficiency in Portuguese and English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of another official language of UNESCO, such as French or Spanish, is considered desirable.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a service contract level of SC9, based in Brasilia. The contract duration is for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal depending on budgetary availability and satisfactory performance. The monthly remuneration for this position is BRL 21,107.41, paid in local currency. The working hours are Monday to Thursday from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and Friday from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Candidates must complete an online application by the specified deadline, and the selection process may include assessments, interviews, and reference checks. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of securing high standards of efficiency, technical competence, and integrity in its hiring process, and encourages applications from individuals from minority and indigenous groups, as well as persons with disabilities.