Environmental Affairs Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Environmental Affairs Officer
Location: Geneva
Country: Switzerland
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Transboundary Cooperation Section of the Environment Division in the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). UNECE was established to promote economic cooperation among its member states and to address environmental issues in the region. The organization aims to safeguard the environment and human health while promoting sustainable development in line with the 2030 Agenda. UNECE operates in multiple countries across Europe and has a diverse workforce dedicated to various environmental initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Environmental Affairs Officer will be responsible for managing extrabudgetary projects under the Water Convention’s programme area, focusing on promoting an integrated and intersectoral approach to water resources management in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. The incumbent will work closely with national and regional stakeholders to improve water governance and facilitate National and Regional Policy Dialogues. The role requires strategic and technical expertise to enhance transboundary cooperation and the application of the water-food-energy-ecosystem nexus approach. The officer will also be responsible for liaising with donors, managing project finances, and ensuring compliance with donor agreements.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage the National and Regional Policy Dialogue processes, facilitating the work of national Steering Committees and regional bodies.
• Direct the achievement of strategic objectives and guide the development of workplans in cooperation with stakeholders.
• Review and produce substantive presentations and reports.
• Liaise with other actors and ensure coordination of activities under the Water Convention.
• Assist national authorities in building consensus and providing technical and policy advice.
• Supervise the work of rapporteurs, consultants, and interns in drafting legislation and strategies.
• Contribute to policy packages and regional strategies.
• Represent UNECE in project meetings and other related events.
• Oversee administrative and financial aspects of projects, ensuring compliance with donor agreements. 1
• Identify and develop partnerships with donors and other stakeholders. 1
• Produce project reports and draft proposals for funding. 1
• Perform other related duties as required, including training activities and communication material preparation.

Required Qualifications:

• In-depth knowledge of environmental issues, particularly water-related issues.
• Proven ability to manage programs and projects from design to evaluation.
• Experience in servicing intergovernmental bodies and technical meetings.
• Ability to work with countries in transition in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret data for decision-making.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage conflicting priorities.
• Commitment to gender perspectives and equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental management, law, science, engineering, economics, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in water resources management or environmental management at national or international levels is required. Extensive experience in managing projects and servicing multi-stakeholder intergovernmental processes is desirable. Experience in resource mobilization and providing policy advice on water or environmental issues is also preferred, particularly in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, or Central Asia.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Russian is required, as these are the working languages of the position. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
This position is financed by project funds, and the appointment is subject to the availability of funds and budgetary approval. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates must provide accurate information in their applications. The position may require travel and participation in international meetings.