International Consultant - Promotion of Energy Efficiency (EE) and Life Cycle Management

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since grown to encompass a diverse range of initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable resource management. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Law Division works with international and national partners, providing technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, and strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP is also an Implementing Agency of the Multilateral Fund of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which underscores its commitment to global environmental governance and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for the Promotion of Energy Efficiency and Life Cycle Management is pivotal in providing timely technical assistance aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and life cycle management of refrigerants in the Dominican Republic's refrigeration and air conditioning (RAC) sector. The consultant will work closely with the compliance assistance regional team for Latin America, providing both remote and, if feasible, face-to-face technical guidance to National Ozone Units (NOU) and stakeholders within the RAC sector. The role involves a comprehensive understanding of energy efficiency projects, the Montreal Protocol, and the specific challenges faced by developing countries in implementing multilateral environmental agreements. The consultant will be expected to conduct sectoral mapping, hold technical workshops, and submit regulatory gap analyses, all while ensuring that the findings are validated by relevant stakeholders. This position is crucial for supporting the Dominican Republic's transition towards energy-efficient and climate-friendly refrigeration and air conditioning practices, thereby contributing to broader environmental goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks that are essential for the successful implementation of energy efficiency initiatives in the Dominican Republic. These include:

• Submitting a project proposal based on the findings of the final action plan, incorporating comments and decisions relevant for future funding opportunities.
• Conducting a sectoral mapping report for the electricity consumption of the RAC sector, which involves collecting data from manufacturers, importers, distributors, large users, and training centers, as well as triangulating different sources such as structured interviews and customs/import databases.
• Holding at least four technical workshops (two in Santo Domingo and two in Santiago) with approximately 25 stakeholders each to validate methodology and preliminary results.
• Submitting a regulatory gap analysis that maps responsible institutions and assesses overlaps and gaps, including organizing a national roundtable with government, industry, and certification bodies to validate findings and propose improvements.
• Preparing a benchmarking study to compare Dominican testing, energy efficiency, and labeling standards with those of Mexico, Colombia, Chile, and Costa Rica, which includes identifying technical specifications and preparing a comparative matrix.
• Formulating updated draft Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) for non-ducted single-split air conditioners and household refrigerators and freezers.
• Conducting at least four consultation workshops targeting technicians, importers, NGOs, and public institutions, covering results from previous activities, feedback sessions, and roadmap co-design exercises. Each workshop will involve approximately 30 participants, and a digital consultation form will be shared to gather input.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental policy, science, engineering, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with nine years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. Additionally, candidates must have at least seven years of experience in the implementation of projects linked to multilateral agreements (MEAs), particularly in the context of energy efficiency projects or policies. Experience in the implementation of Montreal Protocol projects is also required, along with a proven track record of working with government officers in developing countries. Previous work experience within the United Nations system and knowledge of the phase-out of ozone-depleting chemicals and related matters will be considered an asset. Furthermore, experience in providing advice and technical assistance on projects related to pollution prevention, emission reduction, waste management, energy efficiency, renewable energies, cleaner production policies, circular economy, and sustainability will be advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as environmental science, environmental policy, science, engineering, or a closely related discipline. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree, they must also have nine years of qualifying experience to be considered for the position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of the complex issues surrounding energy efficiency and environmental management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in the implementation of projects associated with multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs). Candidates should have substantial experience in designing and implementing energy efficiency projects or policies, as well as experience specifically related to the implementation of Montreal Protocol projects. Additionally, experience working with government officials in developing countries is crucial, as the consultant will need to navigate the complexities of local governance and regulatory frameworks. Previous experience within the United Nations system is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with international standards and practices in environmental governance.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written Spanish is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will be working primarily in the Dominican Republic. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered desirable and may enhance the consultant's ability to communicate with a broader range of stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of nine months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview meetings, processing, or training. Furthermore, the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.