Junior Professional Officer (JPO)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for regulating shipping. Established in 1948, the IMO has a mission to promote safe, secure, and efficient shipping on clean oceans. The organization has a global presence, with member states from around the world, and works to ensure that the shipping industry operates in a manner that is environmentally sustainable and safe for all. The IMO employs a diverse workforce and engages in various initiatives to enhance maritime safety and environmental protection.

Job Overview:
The Junior Professional Officer (JPO) position is part of a voluntary program where member states sponsor young professionals to work at the IMO. This role is designed for individuals who are looking to gain practical experience in the maritime sector, particularly in oil pollution preparedness and response. The JPO will be engaged at the P.2 level and will be involved in substantive work while receiving on-the-job training. The selected candidate will be expected to contribute to the implementation of the Global Initiative for West, Central and Southern Africa (GI WACAF) Project, which aims to enhance oil pollution response capabilities across twenty-two African countries. The position requires a proactive approach, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The JPO will assist in the implementation of the GI WACAF biennial programme of work, which includes preparing and executing oil pollution response-related capacity-building activities such as meetings, workshops, training courses, and regional conferences. The JPO will support the GI WACAF Project Manager in project administration tasks, including coordination of meetings, record keeping, and reporting. The role also involves developing terms of reference for external consultants, assessing their performance, and reviewing their reports. The JPO will liaise with government and industry focal points to ensure timely delivery of project activities, assist in preparing outreach materials, maintain the GI WACAF website, and deliver presentations at various events. Additional duties may be assigned as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong drafting skills, excellent research and analytical abilities, and the capacity to think strategically. They should be able to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating organizational skills and initiative. The ability to adapt to diverse environments and maintain effective working relationships with individuals from various cultural backgrounds is essential. Integrity, discretion, and meticulous attention to detail are also required competencies for this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Masters) in international project management, international relations, international development, environmental science, or a closely related discipline is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of maritime environmental issues and project management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have one to two years of professional experience in project management or relevant experience in the petroleum industry, research institutes, or international organizations. Previous experience in oil spill preparedness and response is considered an asset. Familiarity with United Nations administrative processes and experience working internationally, particularly in Africa, would be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and spoken English and French is essential for this position. Proficiency in these languages will enable effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders involved in the GI WACAF project.

Additional Notes:
This position is financed by a sponsoring Member State, and only nominations submitted by the Member State will be accepted. The JPO assignment is for a period of one to two years, subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability. There is no expectation of conversion to a permanent position after the JPO assignment. The sponsoring Member State is responsible for all costs related to the JPO, and a Memorandum of Understanding will be signed to confirm this commitment. The IMO encourages nominations from qualified women and aims to facilitate the employment of persons with disabilities.