Senior Low-Carbon Building Design and Passive Cooling Expert

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. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance, advocating for sustainable practices and policies worldwide. With a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to addressing global environmental challenges. The organization focuses on various critical areas, including climate change, ecosystem management, and resource efficiency, working collaboratively with governments, civil society, and the private sector to foster a sustainable future for all.

Job Overview:
The position of Senior Low-Carbon Building Design and Passive Cooling Expert is crucial for supporting the Mitigation Branch and UNEP India Office in accelerating passive cooling initiatives in India. The expert will work closely with various stakeholders, including government entities, public sector undertakings, and private players, to promote the uptake of passive cooling strategies. This role involves providing technical assistance for affordable housing pilots, conducting capacity-building training, and leading consultations with state governments. The expert will also be responsible for developing a comprehensive External Shading Design Booklet tailored to different climate zones and latitudes, ensuring that the guidelines are practical and effective for implementation across various regions in India. The position requires a deep understanding of sustainable building practices and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders to drive the adoption of low-carbon building materials and passive cooling solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Low-Carbon Building Design and Passive Cooling Expert will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Supporting the implementation of passive cooling strategies in collaboration with the Government of India and state governments, particularly in Odisha and Maharashtra.
• Providing technical assistance for affordable housing projects, ensuring that they incorporate sustainable and low-carbon building practices.
• Conducting capacity-building training sessions for stakeholders to enhance their understanding and implementation of passive cooling techniques.
• Leading consultations and meetings with state governments and other relevant stakeholders to foster collaboration and gather insights for effective strategy development.
• Developing an External Shading Design Booklet that addresses the specific needs of different climate zones and latitudes in India.
• Engaging with partners and coordinating subcontractors to ensure the successful execution of project activities.
• Creating knowledge products, tools, training materials, and communication pieces that support the dissemination of information related to sustainable urban cooling and building materials.
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of implemented strategies and providing recommendations for improvement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of twenty-five years of experience in a relevant field, with a strong focus on market research, stakeholder mapping, and strategic communication activities. Expertise in the Indian context is essential, along with proven experience in engaging with government, industry, finance, and academia. Advanced skills in communication and stakeholder engagement are critical, as is experience in developing district cooling markets in India. The qualifications must be recognized by the United Nations, and qualifying years of experience will be calculated from the date of obtaining the first level university degree.

Educational Background:
A first-level university degree in a relevant field is required, with advanced degrees being advantageous. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the position, emphasizing sustainability, environmental science, urban planning, or related disciplines.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically a minimum of twenty-five years in relevant fields. This experience should include a strong focus on market research, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communication, particularly within the Indian context. Candidates should demonstrate a history of successful project development and partnership building in the area of sustainable building practices and passive cooling solutions.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not detailed in the job posting, proficiency in English is likely mandatory given the international nature of UNEP and its operations. Additional knowledge of local languages in India may be beneficial for effective communication with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for 12 months, and while the consultant needs to be based in India, remote work is permissible. The role is part of a larger initiative aimed at transforming the built environment through sustainable materials, with a focus on low-carbon building practices. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.