Marine Protected Area Technical Consultant

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 was established to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. It operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on various environmental issues, including biodiversity, climate change, and pollution. UNEP plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges and fostering international cooperation.

Job Overview:
The Marine Protected Area Technical Consultant will provide substantial policy, governance, and sustainability expertise on marine protected areas (MPAs), regional networks, and other effective area-based conservation measures at both regional and national levels. This position is critical in supporting the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly Target 3, which aims to conserve 30% of land, waters, and seas. The consultant will work remotely and is expected to contribute to the project aimed at accelerating the implementation of ocean-based actions in National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plans (NBSAPs) in Cambodia and the Philippines. The role involves ensuring the relevance, quality, and equitability of project outputs while collaborating with various stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society organizations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for project planning and technical execution related to MPAs and Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs). Key duties include ensuring the technical soundness of deliverables for national projects in Cambodia and the Philippines, developing a sustainability plan for the MPA/OECM regional network, and preparing and implementing national and regional consultations, training, capacity-building initiatives, and workshops. The consultant will also engage in stakeholder coordination and facilitate knowledge sharing and learning exchanges, ensuring that the project aligns with the strategic directions of the Coordinating Body on the Seas of East Asia (COBSEA).

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in environmental science, natural resource management, sustainable development, public administration, business administration, or a related field. A master's degree is highly desirable. Additionally, a minimum of five years of professional experience in marine and coastal environmental issues is required, along with demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and coordination. Proficiency in project planning, monitoring, and evaluation tools is essential, and experience working in a multicultural environment, particularly within the United Nations, is desirable. Knowledge of Marine Protected Areas and OECMs, especially in the East Asian Seas region, is also preferred.

Educational Background:
A university degree in environmental science, natural resource management, sustainable development, public administration, business administration, or a related field is required for this position. A master's degree is considered highly desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex environmental issues.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of professional experience in marine and coastal environmental issues. Candidates should have a proven track record of stakeholder engagement and coordination, particularly with government agencies, development partners, and civil society organizations. Experience in project planning, monitoring, and evaluation is also necessary, along with familiarity with the workings of the United Nations and experience in the East Asian Seas region.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of either Khmer or Filipino is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication and engagement with local stakeholders in Cambodia and the Philippines.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for 12 months. The consultant will work on a part-time basis. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.