Associate Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO was established to promote international cooperation and coordinate programs in research, services, and capacity building in the field of oceanography. The IOC has been operational for over 50 years and is dedicated to the sustainable management of ocean resources and the protection of the marine environment. The organization has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, focusing on marine science and policy development to address global ocean challenges.

Job Overview:
The Associate Project Officer will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the MSPglobal Programme, which aims to enhance marine spatial planning (MSP) processes worldwide. This position involves working closely with the MSPglobal Coordinator to ensure that project activities align with the objectives outlined in the Projects' Documents. The officer will be responsible for facilitating communication among stakeholders, including donors and beneficiary countries, and ensuring that project outputs are delivered effectively. The role also includes contributing to the development of guidelines, tools, and training materials, as well as organizing national, regional, and global MSP events. The Associate Project Officer will engage with a community of MSP practitioners and authorities, supporting the development of project proposals and other related activities within the IOC framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the MSPglobal Coordinator in the daily implementation of the MSPglobal Programme according to the Projects' Documents.
• Organize meetings and ensure effective communication with donors, beneficiary countries, and collaborators, both internal and external to UNESCO.
• Ensure project outputs are delivered as specified in the Projects' Documents by assisting in planning, coordinating, and monitoring workplans with the MSPglobal Team and contracted services.
• Guide and review the development of MSP guidelines, tools, training materials, and communication products.
• Co-organize and deliver national, regional, and global MSP events.
• Contribute to the systematic documentation, monitoring, and reporting of project activities to donors and other stakeholders.
• Engage with MSP practitioners and authorities globally.
• Support the development of project proposals related to MSPglobal.
• Assist with other UNESCO-IOC activities related to MSP, including the IOC-wide Strategy on Sustainable Ocean Planning and Management and the Ocean Decade Programme on Sustainable Ocean Planning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in marine/coastal resources management, environmental sciences, or a related field. A minimum of two years of experience in developing technical reports and training related to marine policies, such as marine spatial planning and integrated coastal zone management, is required. Experience in project implementation, including co-leading activities and supporting information management and project reporting, is essential. Candidates should also have demonstrated experience in organizing and facilitating both online and face-to-face events, preferably at the international level.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in marine/coastal resources management, environmental sciences, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background ensures that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to marine spatial planning and related activities.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant experience in the development of technical reports and training related to marine policies. Candidates should have experience in project implementation, including co-leading activities and supporting information management and project reporting. Demonstrated experience in organizing and facilitating events, both online and in-person, particularly at the international level, is also necessary.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of French and Spanish is considered an asset and would be beneficial for engaging with a broader range of stakeholders and partners in the marine spatial planning community.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is one year, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funds and satisfactory performance. The position is open to both internal and external candidates, and UNESCO offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. The approximate annual starting salary for this post is 84,123 US dollars. Candidates are encouraged to apply online and must provide complete and accurate information in their applications. The selection process may include tests, assessments, and interviews, and only selected candidates will be contacted for further steps.