National Consultant for PCB Disposal

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is a leading global environmental authority established in 197

• It is responsible for coordinating the development of environmental policy and ensuring that the global environment is kept under review. UNEP works with various partners to strengthen environmental management capacity in developing countries and those with economies in transition. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on various environmental issues, including pollution reduction, climate resilience, and biodiversity protection. UNEP's Ecosystems Division plays a crucial role in providing technical assistance and advisory services to implement environmental policies effectively.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant for PCB Disposal will play a vital role in reducing pollution from harmful chemicals and wastes in the Mediterranean region, specifically focusing on the collection and disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This position is part of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded Mediterranean Sea Programme, which aims to enhance environmental security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and reduce major transboundary environmental stresses. The consultant will be responsible for operational coordination with government authorities, local waste owners, and an international contractor to ensure the effective execution of PCB disposal activities. The role requires a proactive approach to address challenges and facilitate the smooth implementation of the project, contributing to the overall goal of improving environmental health and safety in the Mediterranean region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Operational coordination with central government authorities, which involves assisting and following up with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations regarding local authorities and waste owners involved in PCB disposal. The consultant will also coordinate with the international contractor to secure necessary permits and licenses for PCB disposal, addressing any pending issues with government agencies to facilitate the collection and pre-export of PCB-contaminated equipment.
• Coordination with local authorities and waste owners, including following up on the availability of chemicals for collection and providing support during field visits for the collection of PCB-contaminated equipment. The consultant will address any issues that arise during the collection process.
• Support in contract management and monitoring, ensuring that all necessary permits and licenses are obtained, and that the HSSE Plan and Basel notifications are approved by government counterparts. The consultant will monitor adherence to national and international waste management regulations by UNOPS contractors and address any issues that may delay the execution of chemical collection and disposal activities.
• Reporting to the MedPCU on various issues, including the status of chemical waste collection, shipping, and export, verification of completed disposal services, and submission of regular bi-monthly reports. The consultant will also prepare a final report on implementation activities, focusing on the deliverables achieved under this assignment.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in environmental sciences, engineering, waste management, or a related field. Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental management, with a preference for those who have worked on similar projects or with governmental institutions. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree in environmental sciences, engineering, waste management, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental management and the specific challenges associated with PCB disposal.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of experience in environmental management is required for this position. Candidates with experience in similar projects, particularly those involving hazardous waste management and coordination with governmental institutions, will be preferred. This experience is vital for effectively navigating the regulatory landscape and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Excellent writing skills are essential for preparing reports and documentation related to the project. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy assignment is home-based and is expected to last for 12 months. The position does not involve any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants for applications, interviews, or training. The consultant will be expected to work full-time and may need to coordinate with various stakeholders across different countries involved in the Mediterranean Sea Programme.