Safeguards Analyst

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 is a key partner in the United Nations Collaborative Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in Developing Countries (UN-REDD Programme), which collaborates with organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Job Overview:
The Safeguards Analyst will play a crucial role in delivering high-quality technical analyses and documentation that support UNEP's UN-REDD Technical Assistance initiatives. This position is expected to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of safeguards activities in the Africa Region, ensuring fewer delays and reduced transaction costs with consultants while improving coordination with partners. The Analyst will work closely with the Safeguards Specialist and the UNEP UN-REDD Programme Coordinator to implement safeguards-related activities as outlined in the UN-REDD 2026 country workplans. The role requires a strong analytical background and the ability to synthesize complex information into concise written outputs, contributing to the overall mission of UNEP in promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Safeguards Analyst will be responsible for a variety of tasks under the supervision of the UNEP UN-REDD Programme Coordinator for the Africa region. Key duties include reviewing national policies, laws, and regulations relevant to REDD+ safeguards in supported countries, drafting technical notes, background papers, summaries, and briefing materials. The Analyst will conduct analyses of safeguards gaps and ensure alignment with UNFCCC Cancun Safeguards, ART-TREES, and other relevant frameworks. Additionally, the role involves documenting and systematizing safeguards tools and guidance materials, maintaining organized digital repositories of country safeguards materials and regulatory frameworks, and organizing workshops, webinars, and knowledge exchange events. The Analyst will also engage with implementation partners and national consultants to ensure effective communication and follow-up on safeguards-related activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into concise written outputs. Strong drafting and editing skills are essential, along with the ability to work independently under supervision and as part of a team. A practical background in policy analysis is required, and a demonstrated interest in the work of the United Nations, along with knowledge of the UN system and a commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter, is desirable. Candidates should also have the ability to identify priorities and work under tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s) in environmental science, natural resource management, international development, forest policy, social sciences, or related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in these fields, combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of experience in natural resources management, forestry, land-use, or related fields is required for candidates with a first-level university degree. Experience working at the country level in the Africa region is also necessary, along with familiarity with African environmental governance contexts. Knowledge of social and environmental safeguards, particularly for REDD+, and/or policy analysis and environmental assessment is required. Candidates should have experience in at least one of the following areas: REDD+ implementation, nature-based solutions, climate change, forestry, biodiversity, environmental governance, or natural resources management. Familiarity with land tenure and rights systems in the context of at least one African country is an asset, and experience in supporting workshops or stakeholder engagement processes is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this consulting position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN language is highly desirable.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of this consultancy is three months. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview meetings, processing, or training. Additionally, the UN does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.