Policy Specialist, Air Pollution and Health

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Position Title: Policy Specialist, Air Pollution and Health
Location: New York
Country: United States
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN's global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission. UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, and emphasizes rigorous reference and background checks for selected candidates.

Job Overview:
The Policy Specialist, Air Pollution and Health will play a crucial role in UNDP's Climate Promise initiative, which supports over 140 low- and middle-income countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change. This position focuses on integrating health considerations into national climate pledges (NDCs) and addressing the health impacts of air pollution, particularly for marginalized populations. The specialist will engage with national stakeholders, provide technical support, and lead capacity-building activities to enhance the understanding and management of air quality and super pollutants. The role requires collaboration with various UNDP hubs and stakeholders to ensure effective integration of health and environmental strategies in climate action.

Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Serve as a technical expert and lead capacity-building activities, providing support to at least eight target countries in integrating air quality and super pollutants into their NDCs. Coordinate additional support from relevant UN organizations and build synergies with partners. Lead capacity-building initiatives, including peer-to-peer learning across UNDP country offices. 2) Engage with key national stakeholders across sectors in target countries to promote the integration of air quality into NDCs. Identify and track key stakeholders and timelines for NDC submissions, maintaining a comprehensive overview of national climate-related activities. 3) Produce analytical reports detailing lessons learned and best practices in integrating air quality into NDCs. Lead public communications efforts, developing strategies and materials for diverse audiences, and organizing webinars on health and climate co-benefits. 4) Participate in global coordination meetings to enhance understanding of health impacts related to super pollutants and promote integrated approaches across UNDP teams.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Environmental or Natural Sciences, Public Health, Sustainable Development, or a related field. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s degree) combined with additional qualifying experience may also be considered. A minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience (9 years with a Bachelor’s degree) in air pollution and health at the global or regional level is required. Candidates should demonstrate strong stakeholder engagement skills, technical expertise in air pollution, and experience working with governments and civil society.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Environmental or Natural Sciences, Public Health, or Sustainable Development is required. A Bachelor’s degree in these areas, combined with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional work experience in air pollution and health, with a preference for candidates who have experience working at the global or regional level. Experience in supporting governments to implement the Paris Agreement and working with the UN system is highly desired.

Languages:
Fluent English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional UN languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in New York and is part of a one-year project funded by the Clean Air Fund. The role involves full-time engagement and may require international collaboration. UNDP emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized and underserved populations. The organization offers a competitive compensation package and benefits, adhering to its policies on non-discrimination and equal opportunity.