Environment Officer

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Position Title: Environment Officer
Location: Bangui
Country: Central African Republic
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), which was authorized by the UN security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Council in April 201

• The mission's primary objectives include ensuring the protection of civilians, supporting the peace process, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and promoting human rights. MINUSCA operates with a significant presence, including 14,400 military personnel, 3,020 police personnel, and 1,671 civilian personnel, and is dedicated to stabilizing the region amidst ongoing security and humanitarian crises.

Job Overview:
The Environment Officer position is crucial for managing environmental activities within the mission's sector of responsibility. This role involves coordinating actions related to environmental and cultural issues, establishing and implementing the mission's Environmental Management System (EMS), and ensuring compliance with environmental policies. The officer will conduct environmental assessments, liaise with military personnel, and provide guidance on environmental matters. The position requires a proactive approach to environmental management, including the development of environmental action plans and emergency preparedness strategies. The officer will also be responsible for promoting environmental awareness and training mission personnel, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into all aspects of the mission's operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Environment Officer will undertake a variety of duties, including supporting the development and implementation of the mission's environmental policy and guidelines, conducting environmental assessments and surveys, and liaising with military camps to ensure compliance with environmental recommendations. The officer will produce and update the mission's Environmental Baseline Study, implement the Environmental Action Plan, and oversee the execution of environmental actions. Regular environmental inspections and risk assessments will be conducted, and the officer will maintain records of environmental issues and actions taken. The officer will also investigate reports of pollution and health hazards, submit periodic reports on environmental compliance, and advise relevant officers on environmental issues. Additionally, the officer will promote environmental awareness through training and briefings for mission personnel and coordinate with local authorities and UN agencies on environmental matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Environment Officer position must demonstrate a strong understanding of environmental management principles and practices, particularly in a peacekeeping or humanitarian context. They should possess excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as the officer will work with diverse stakeholders, including military personnel, local authorities, and UN agencies. The ability to operate independently in challenging environments and a commitment to the principles of voluntary engagement are also critical.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for the Environment Officer position, typically including a degree in environmental science, environmental management, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in environmental policy or management may be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid foundation in law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law and regulations, as well as experience in conducting environmental assessments and developing management plans.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience in environmental management, preferably within a UN or international organization context. A minimum of several years of relevant professional experience is expected, with a proven track record of managing environmental projects and initiatives. Experience in a peacekeeping or humanitarian setting is highly desirable, as is familiarity with the specific environmental challenges faced in conflict-affected areas.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for the Environment Officer position, as it is the primary working language of the UN. Knowledge of French is also highly desirable, given the operational context of the Central African Republic. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the local population or regional stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bangui, Central African Republic, which is classified as a non-family duty station due to the challenging security and living conditions. The assignment is renewable annually, with a maximum duration of four years, contingent upon mission needs and performance. The living conditions in Bangui are difficult, with limited access to basic services and high living costs. UN personnel are advised to comply with security protocols and may face restrictions on movement. The position may require travel to remote locations within the mission area, and candidates should be prepared for the physical and psychological demands of working in a potentially hazardous environment.