Jobs at United Nations Environment Programme

This position is located in UNEP's Corporate Services Division, Enterprise Solutions Section at the Nairobi duty station. The incumbent will report to the Chief, Enterprise Solutions Section and will be responsible for the following duties:

Responsibilities

1. Leads the development, maintenance and review of information technology systems.
2. Plans and directs major systems projects of significant importance to the institution, or major components of these complex systems which typically impact critical operations and large or multiple user groups.
3. Tracks and monitors project progress against plan, requirements, quality measures, standard processes; liaises with users on all aspects and during all phases of development and implementation.
4. Provides professional leadership and work direction to assigned project team, and/or mentor and supervises the work of new/junior officers, contract staff.
5. Is actively involved in the execution of the most complex aspects of the project (e.g. systems analysis, development, programming); oversees development of document and database structures, ensuring that all design aspects are addressed, and control and security mechanisms are established.
6. Prepares technical and user documentation for entire systems and interdependent applications; prepares training materials and detailed technical presentations.
7. Provides expert advice on complex systems analysis and design; identifies the need for new systems (or modifications to existing systems) or respond to requests from users; develops plans for feasibility assessment, requirements specification, design, development and implementation, including project plans, schedules, time and cost estimates, metrics and performance measures.
8. Coordinates the preparation and implementation of the work program and budget pertaining to IT projects.
9. Participates in planning and preparation of the budget, work program and spending plan.
10. Develops cost proposals for contractual services, oversees the technical evaluation of proposals received and manages the contract service, including the establishments of service level agreements (SLAs) with clear key performance indicators (KPIs).
11. Provides technical advice on Information technology projects and tasks.
12. Develops, implements and monitors information standards and guidelines, including testing paradigms.
13. Keeps abreast of developments in the field and determines the need for testing and evaluating new products and technologies, including innovative and emerging information technologies; provides leadership on introducing technological changes; prepares various technical reports.

Competencies

1. PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge of systems design, and development, management, implementation and maintenance of complex information systems. Ability to develop and oversee large centralized or decentralized institutional systems; conceptual and strategic analytical capacity to understand information system and business operational issues so as to thoroughly analyze and evaluate critical systems matters. Knowledge of a range of computer languages and development paradigms, knowledge of organization’s information infrastructure and IT strategy as it relates to user area(s). Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
2. PLANNING & ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.
3. TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goal; solicits input by genuinely valuing others' ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
4. CLIENT ORIENTATION: Considers all those to whom services are provided to be "clients" and seeks to see things from clients' point of view; establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect; identifies clients' needs and matches them to appropriate solutions; monitors ongoing developments inside and outside the clients' environment to keep informed and anticipate problems; keeps clients informed of progress or setbacks in projects; meets timeline for delivery of products or services to clients.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in computer science, information systems, information management, mathematics, statistics or related field is required. A first level university degree in combination with two (2) additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

1. A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in planning, design, development, implementation and maintenance of computer information systems or related area is required.
2. Experience knowledge in digital transformation, digital enterprise architecture and information security implementations is desirable.
3. Experience in handling the development of innovative information technology solutions in the environmental area is desirable.
4. A minimum of three (3) years of relevant work experience in managing a team of software developers is required.

Languages

English and French are the two working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this post, fluency in oral and written English is required. Knowledge of another official UN language is desirable.

NOTE: "Fluency equals a rating of "fluent" in all four areas (read, write, speak, understand) and "Knowledge of" equals a rating of "confident" in two of the four areas.

Assessment
Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.

go to method of application »

This position is located in the Ecosystems Division's Nature for Climate Branch, at the Nairobi duty station. Under the direct supervision of the Chief, ClimateChange and Mitigation Unit (CCMU), the incumbent will perform the following functions:

Responsibilities

1. Participates in the development, implementation and evaluation of assigned programmes/projects on climate change mitigation, nature-based solution,; monitors and analyzes programme/project development and implementation; reviews relevant documents and reports; identifies problems and issues to be addressed and proposes corrective actions; liaises with relevant parties; identifies and tracks follow-up actions.
2. Performs consulting assignments, in collaboration with the client Unit, the Branch and Division in general, by planning facilitating workshops, through other interactive sessions and assisting in developing the action plan the client Unit will use to manage the change.
3. Researches, analyzes and presents information gathered from diverse sources.
4. Assists in policy development, including the review and analysis of issues and trends, preparation of evaluations or other research activities and studies.
5. Undertakes survey initiatives; designs data collection tools; reviews, analyzes and interprets responses, identifies problems/issues and prepares conclusions.
6. Prepares various written outputs, e.g. draft background papers, analysis, sections of reports and studies, inputs to publications.
7. Provides substantive support to consultative and other meetings, conferences, etc., to include proposing agenda topics, identifying participants, preparation of documents and presentations.
8. Undertakes outreach activities; conducts training workshops, seminars; makes presentations on assigned topics/activities.
9. Participates in or lead field missions, including provision of guidance to external consultants, government officials and other parties and drafting mission summaries.
10. Coordinates activities related to budget and funding (programme/project preparation and submissions, progress reports, financial statements) and prepares related documents/reports (pledging, work programme, programme budget).
11. Performs other duties as required.

Competencies

1. PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to particular sector, functional area or other specialized field. Ability to identify issues, analyze and participate in the resolution of issues/problems. Ability to conduct data collection using various methods. Conceptual analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources, including electronic sources on the internet, intranet and other databases. Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.
2. COMMUICATION: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
3. PLANNING & ORGANIZING: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in management, development studies, international relations, project or programme management or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two (2) additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

• A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management is required.
• Two years of experience in coordination at a global headquarters and liaising with senior government officials is required.
• A minimum of two (2) years of international work experience for environmental organizations is desirable.
• Experience in managing projects or programs for the United Nations or comparable international organizations is desirable.
• Experience in monitoring projects and drafting progress reports is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the post advertised, fluency in English, both oral and written is required. Knowledge of another official UN language is an advantage.

NOTE: "fluency equals a rating of "fluent" in all four areas (read, write, speak, understand) and "knowledge of" equals a rating of "confident" in two of the four areas.

Assessment
Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.

go to method of application »

The temporary position is located in the UNDRR Regional Office for Africa (ROA) in Nairobi. The incumbent reports to the Chief of the Regional Office.

Responsibilities

1. Context and Operational Background
2. The Africa Road Map for Improving the Availability, Access and Use of Disaster Risk Information for Early Warning and Early Action, including in the Context of Transboundary Risk Management, aligned to the Plan of Action for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for DRR across the African region, features the main priorities for the implementation along with the related implementation modalities and lists implementing partners, identified by the African stakeholders.
3. It is the result of an extensive and participatory consultation process, inspired by exchange of knowledge and experience with continental and international stakeholders, customized to the specific needs and capacity of the African stakeholders, aiming to ensure their ownership and political commitment. It builds on previous efforts over many years and systematizes the support provided by donors and implementing partners.
4. Within delegated authority, the Programme Officer will be responsible for the following duties:
5. Supports the development, implementation and monitoring of projects related to the implementation of the African Road map for Impact-based Early Warning Systems for Early Action and Transboundary risk management, aligned to Plan of Action for the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction in Africa.
6. Under the leadership of the Senior Programme Manager and in coordination with the Deputy Chief of the UNDRR Regional Office for Africa and with other relevant units in the organization drafts programme documents and reports; addresses priorities, problems and issues and implements corrective actions as required; work with relevant parties and timely executes follow-up actions.
7. Performs data-based research and under the guidance of the Senior Programme Specialist presents information gathered from diverse sources.
8. Supports the development and implementation of coherent policy documents.
9. Performs data collection and supports the development and implementation of databases, data analytics, modelling of hazard and risk scenario and other strategies that optimize the risk understanding for its multipurpose applications including, among others, for impact-based early warning systems for early/anticipatory actions and transboundary risk management; in coordination with the Sendai Framework Monitor Officer, the Risk Knowledge Officer and the External Communication Officer support the development and implementation of coherent, actionable and time-dynamic policies for disaster risk reduction climate change adaptation and sustainable development, including through the application of resilient dividends approach. statistical efficiency and quality; reviews, analyses and interprets responses, identifies problems/issues and prepares conclusions, while ensuring engagement of UNCTs.
10. Drafts various written outputs, e.g. background papers, analysis, substantial sections of reports and studies, inputs to publications.
11. Provides assistance in the organization and roll out of consultative and other meetings, conferences, etc., proposing agenda topics, identifying participants, preparation of documents and presentations, etc.
12. Supports outreach activities, maintains and strengthens regular contact with other implementing partners and beneficiaries, including, among others, the AUC, ACMAD, the RECs, African Governments, DRR stakeholders, technical-scientific partners, universities and research centres, ensuring timely dissemination of relevant information related to the programme implementation; support to access to the infrastructure, software and services needed to develop and deploy data/information products; promotes and support disaster risk-informed decision-making processes.
13. In cooperation with other implementing partners, supports the organization and roll out of training workshops, seminars, etc., makes presentations on assigned topics/activities; assists in the development of training of trainers and training on the job for the design of contingency/emergency plans activated by risk scenarios forecasted in the early warning messages.
14. Participates in field missions, and cooperates with external consultants, government officials and other parties, drafts mission summaries, etc.
15. Contributes to the preparation of budget plan and funding proposal providing technical inputs aimed at enhancing the UNDRR added value; assists in the preparation of programme/project reports progress reports, etc.
16. Establishes and maintains technical dialogue with relevant beneficiaries and partners.
17. Supports the recruitment of technical experts to boost the implementation of activities in beneficiary entities.
18. Assists in the development and review of the legal and institutional framework for the identification of roles and responsibilities of DRR stakeholders from continental to the regional, sub-regional, national and sub-national levels.
19. Contributes to the installation and customization of the common open-source platform for the exchange, analysis and redistribution of DRR data and information and ensures the link up of the relevant stakeholders into the continental network.
20. Supports the definition, testing and endorsement of Standard Operating Procedures to exchange, analyses and redistribute DRR data and information, through common open-source platform.
21. Supports the design, development and rolling out of training for development, customization and operational use of hydro-meteorological modelling for impact-based early warning systems.
22. Supports the development and roll out of awareness campaign for the effective communication and use of early warning messages; contributes to the development of customized messages for the different end users, with specific focus on Disaster risk reduction and Disaster risk management (DRR/DRM) officers and general public.
23. Facilitates and participates in the exchange of knowledge and experience and to the establishment of triangular cooperation mechanism with international and global stakeholders active in the field of impact-based early warning system for early action and transboundary risk management and related scientific research activity, including, among other, EU-DG ECHO, ARISTOTLE network, Civil Protection and DRR/DRM authorities at international and global level, as well as with other international organizations active in the field of DRR/DRM, including but not limited to WMO, UNOCHA, WFP, FAO, IOM, IFRC, INGOs.Drafts project related monitoring and reporting.
24. Participates in the organization and roll out of visibility events and the production of visibility material related to the implementation of the Road Map for its broader endorsement and implementation.
25. Provides inputs for the development of strategic papers, talking points, speeches and presentations for the Chief and Deputy Chief of the Office as well as for senior management, related to project activities, outcomes and policy making.
26. In coordination with the SFM Officer facilitate the collection and management of inputs to support the monitoring of target G of the Sendai Framework.
27. Upon request from the Chief of the Office and of the Senior Programme Officer, represents UNDRR at Inter-Agency meetings, seminars, etc. on Early Warning Systems for Early Action and transboundary risk management, makes presentations to groups on UNDRR activities and advocate issues of concern.
28. Assists in the identification of funding opportunities and in the preparation of project proposals for the implementation of the Africa Road Map.

May perform other duties as required.

Competencies

1. PROFESSIONALISM:
   1. Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts and approaches relevant to disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation and other risk management topics;
   2. Ability to identify issues, analyze and participate in the resolution of issues/problems;
   3. Ability to conduct data collection using various methods;
   4. Conceptual analytical and evaluative skills to conduct independent research and analysis, including familiarity with and experience in the use of various research sources, including electronic sources on the internet, intranet and other databases;
   5. Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work and manage conflicting priorities;
   6. Shows pride in work and in achievements;
   7. Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter.
   8. Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results.
   9. Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns.
   10. Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges.
   11. Remains calm in stressful situations.
   12. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work; demonstrates knowledge of strategies and commitment to the goal of gender balance in staffing.
2. TEAMWORK
   1. Works collaboratively with colleagues, beneficiaries and implementing partners to achieve programme and organizational goals.
   2. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; demonstrates openness to exchange knowledge and experience, including with indigenous partners, ensuring the implemented programme is customized, owned and sustainable with local resources and capacities
   3. Places team agenda before personal agenda
   4. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position
   5. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings
3. CLIENT ORIENTATION
   1. Considers all those to whom services are provided to be “clients” and seeks to see things from clients’ point of view
   2. Establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients, other stakeholders and donors by gaining their trust and respect
   3. Identifies clients’ needs and matches them to appropriate solutions
   4. Monitors ongoing developments inside and outside the clients’ environment to keep informed and anticipate problems
   5. Keeps clients, partners and donors informed of progress or setbacks in projects, along with the identified copying solutions
   6. Meets timeline for delivery of products or services to client
4. TECHNOLOGICAL AWARENESS
   1. Keeps abreast of available technology, methodologies, and modeling related to Impact-Based EWSs
   2. Understands applicability and limitations of technology to the work of the beneficiaries and in general of the African technological context
   3. Actively seeks to apply technology to appropriate tasks
   4. Shows willingness to learn new technology and explore hybrid solution merging innovative tools with indigenous knowledge.

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent degree) in economics, physic, engineering, mathematic, environmental science, or related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

1. A minimum of five (5) years, of which at least two (2) in Africa, of progressively responsible experience in the establishment and operationalization of impact-based Early Warning Systems is required.
2. Experience in Hydro-meteorological monitoring and forecasting tools is required.
3. At least 2 years of operational working experience in impact-based Early Warning Systems for early Disaster Risk Management actions and transboundary risk management is required.
4. Experience in development and testing of Standard Operating Procedures for operational collection analysis and use of DRR data for impact based Early Warning Systems for early action is desirable.
5. Experience in facilitating partnership among DRR/DRM institutions and academia is desirable.
6. Experience in developing and rolling out capacity building activities on risk modeling and Early Warning Systems in international context is desirable.
7. At least 2 years of working experience in project management, including development and monitoring of work plans, procurement and financial reporting, within the UN Common System is desirable.
8. Experience in working with the European Union Civil Protection and/or United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination team, and INGOs working on DRR/DRM at regional/national level is desirable.

Languages

1. English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.
2. For the post advertised fluency in English is required; knowledge of French is desirable.
3. Knowledge of one or several languages spoken in the region are an advantage.