Technical Specialist - Environmental Marine Plastics (Retainer)

Job Posting Organization:
The South East Asia and Pacific Multi Country Office (EAPMCO) was established in January 2023, following the merger of the Thailand Multi-Country Office and the Cambodia Multi-Country Office. EAPMCO supports, develops, and oversees UNOPS projects across 24 countries in North East Asia, South East Asia, and the Pacific. The office is headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand, and comprises nine business units. In 2024, EAPMCO implemented projects worth over USD 80 million in various sectors, including energy transition, digital transformations, sustainable environmental management, and health. UNOPS has been operational in Indonesia since 2005, focusing on infrastructure development, fund management, and capacity building, with significant investments in environmental protection and climate resilience.

Job Overview:
The Technical Specialist will support the Regional Implementation Support Unit (RISU) in executing its portfolio related to the Southeast Asia Regional Program on Combating Marine Plastics (SEA-MaP Regional Project). This five-year program, financed by the World Bank, aims to assist ASEAN Member States in combating marine plastic pollution. The Specialist will provide technical support, quality assurance, and stakeholder engagement, focusing on marine plastic pollution, waste management, and circular economy solutions. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies and private sector participants, to enhance operational capacity and promote innovative solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Specialist will serve as a key technical advisor, ensuring high-quality implementation of project deliverables. Responsibilities include providing specialized support on marine plastic pollution, managing assigned workstreams, ensuring quality assurance for program activities, and facilitating technical discussions with implementing partners. The Specialist will also prepare written materials, draft technical documents, assist in conceptualizing activities, and support monitoring and evaluation efforts. Additionally, the Specialist will oversee activities related to the Regional Platform for Innovation and Investments, promoting innovative circular economy solutions and fostering partnerships.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong technical expertise in marine plastics and circular economy solutions, exceptional coordination and communication skills, and the ability to provide quality assurance for technical deliverables. Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies, along with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, is essential. The role requires a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Educational Background:
A minimum advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant disciplines such as Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Marine Biology, or Sustainability Studies is required. A first university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) in the aforementioned fields, combined with two additional years of relevant experience, may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in marine plastic pollution, circular economy, or environmental sustainability. Experience with regulations and policies related to waste management and plastic pollution prevention is required. Familiarity with innovation projects and platforms addressing plastic pollution, as well as experience in capacity building and stakeholder engagement, is highly desirable. Previous work with the UN or related organizations is an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is required. Knowledge of another official UNOPS language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The contract type is International ICA, Retainer, with a level of ICS 10 / IICA-2 / LICA 1

• The contract duration is one year, with the possibility of extension based on organizational requirements and performance. This is not a full-time position; retainers may be requested to carry out tasks on an intermittent basis. Candidates must have the necessary permissions to work in their home base location without sponsorship from UNOPS. UNOPS embraces diversity and encourages applications from qualified women and underrepresented groups.