National Consultant for Reducing Pollution from Harmful Chemicals and Wastes

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the designated entity within the United Nations system that addresses environmental issues at both global and regional levels. Established to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, UNEP plays a crucial role in keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The organization operates through various divisions, including the Ecosystems Division, which collaborates with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services aimed at implementing environmental policies and enhancing the environmental management capacity of developing countries and those with transitioning economies. UNEP's Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) is one of its key initiatives, focusing on the Mediterranean region and addressing critical environmental challenges. The MedProgramme, funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), represents a significant effort to reduce pollution and enhance environmental security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in the Mediterranean Sea, involving multiple beneficiary countries and a wide range of stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The position of National Consultant is integral to the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) under the UNEP, specifically focusing on the reduction of pollution from harmful chemicals and wastes in the Mediterranean region. The consultant will work on the Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded Mediterranean Sea Programme, which aims to operationalize priority actions to mitigate major transboundary environmental stresses in coastal areas while enhancing climate resilience and water security. The consultant's primary responsibility will be to support the collection and disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury wastes in Tunisia, ensuring compliance with national and international regulations. This role requires effective coordination with various stakeholders, including government authorities and international contractors, to facilitate the successful execution of waste management activities and contribute to the overall goals of the MedProgramme.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Operational coordination with central government authorities, which involves assisting and following up with the Ministry of Local Affairs and Environment regarding local authorities and waste owners involved in the disposal process. The consultant will also coordinate with the international contractor to ensure all necessary permits and licenses for PCB and mercury disposal are obtained, addressing any issues that may arise with relevant government agencies to facilitate the collection and pre-export of contaminated equipment and wastes.
• 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 and mercury wastes. The consultant will also address any issues that may arise during the collection processes.
• Support in contract management and monitoring, ensuring that all necessary permits and licenses are in place, monitoring adherence to national and international waste management regulations, and addressing any issues that may delay the execution of collection and disposal activities.
• Reporting to the MedProgramme Coordinating Unit (MedPCU) on various issues, including the status of chemical waste collection, shipping, and export, verification of completed disposal services, and submission of regular reports, including a final report on implementation activities and achieved deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in environmental sciences, engineering, waste management, or a related field. Candidates should possess a strong understanding of environmental policies and regulations, particularly in the context of waste management and pollution reduction. Additionally, the consultant should demonstrate excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies and international organizations.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree in environmental sciences, engineering, waste management, or an equivalent field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively address the environmental challenges associated with the disposal of harmful chemicals and wastes.

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 waste management and pollution reduction, will be preferred. Experience working with governmental institutions is also desirable, as it will facilitate effective coordination and communication with relevant authorities in Tunisia.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is required for this position. Excellent writing skills are essential for preparing reports and documentation related to the consultant's activities. While English is mandatory, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Mediterranean region may be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy assignment is home-based and is expected to last for 12 months. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Candidates should be aware that the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.