Under the supervision of the Task Manager for Latin America and the Caribbean for GEF mitigation projects, the Project Specialist is required to manage part of UNEP's portfolio of GEF mitigation projects in Latin American and the Caribbean. Thematic areas of these projects include those related to sustainable cities, low-carbon mobility, energy efficiency and climate transparency. Specific tasks... and responsibilities Project identification and development for GEF-9
Engage with national counterparts to identify and design GEF-9 project opportunities, particularly in countries such as (but not limited to) Brazil, and Caribbean nations.
Lead and support consultations with country stakeholders to map and screen project concepts based on country needs, technical feasibility, transformative potential, co-financing opportunities, and alignment with GEF programming and UNEP priorities.
Prepare and submit concept notes and PIFs for UNEP’s internal review and quality assurance processes, as well as for submission to national governments and the GEF.
Support the hiring process and supervision of consultants involved in the development of CEO endorsement packages during GEF PPG phase.
Support the preparation of CEO Endorsement documents and relevant annexes, by providing technical inputs, revising implementation plans, and monitoring timelines to ensure project development occurs on time and in compliance with UNEP and GEF processes. More specifically, this involves:
Provide inputs to stakeholder consultation processes.
Revision of first and final drafts, for UNEP internal review and GEF Secretariat submission. (CEO endorsement and annexes to be included in the first draft will be discussed and agreed upon with the Task Manager) o Coordinate and draft responses to comments from UNEP internal review bodies (e.g., PRC) and the GEF Secretariat. o Support the preparation and upload of project endorsement document packages to the GEF portal.
Provide technical inputs and guidance on issues related to urban development, sustainable mobility, energy-efficient buildings, and other thematic areas aligned with the candidate’s expertise. Project management of projects under execution
Serve as the primary UNEP focal point for the projects, maintaining regular communication with the executing agencies and key partners.
Monitor project progress against approved timelines, budgets, and indicators, identifying risks and implementation bottlenecks.
Support adaptive management, including project revisions, reprogramming of resources, and responses to emerging challenges or opportunities.
Discuss project progress, risks, and mitigation strategies with the Task Manager and team members to support informed decision-making and timely interventions. 
Other unit support
 Articulate with other UNEP areas and institutions working on similar topics in the region and globally.
Engage with UNEP Regional Offices, Sub-Regional offices and country focal points -and Resident Coordinator offices when required- to guarantee political and programmatic alignment.


Qualifications/special skills


Advanced university degree in one of the following fields is required: management, engineering, law, business administration, environmental management, policy, economics, development, climate or development finance, architecture, urbanism, or a related discipline;
A first level degree with additional two years of qualifying experience maybe accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.
Minimum five (5) years of experience in managing projects related to climate change, environment, sustainable cities or development is required;
Experience in reviewing project documents, progress reports, workplans, and financial documents (budgets and expenditure reports) is required;
Experience in working with national governments of Latin America and the Caribbean is required;
Experience working with GEF, GCF, CDM or UNEP projects is a desirable; more

Specific tasks and responsibilities


Author and lead the terminal review for the aforementioned projects per GEF and UNEP policies.
Overall responsibility for undertaking the review and preparing the final report in English
Evaluation of all project elements per UNEP evaluation office guidance documents.
Deliverables to be prepared following UNEP evaluation office template
More... specifically: The consultant will develop terminal reviews findings and recommendations based on sound evidence and analysis and clearly document these in the final reports. Information will be triangulated (i.e. verified from different sources) as far as possible, and when verification is not possible, the single source will be mentioned (whilst anonymity is still protected).
Analysis leading to evaluative judgments should always be clearly spelled out.
The consultant shall base the findings of the terminal reviews on the following: A desk review of: Relevant background documentation, inter alia: Project document and appendices.
This includes, among others, relevant work plans, budget and supervision plans, and any revisions introduced after approval.
Theory of change, problem tree, and logical framework.
Project reports, including half-year progress reports, project implementation reports (PIRs), expenditure reports, financial statements, audits, inventory reports, progress reports from collaborating partners, meeting minutes, relevant correspondence, and Tracking Tools; Evaluations/Reviews of similar projects. 


Interviews (individual or in group) with, including but not limited to:


UNEP Task Manager (TM) and team members;
Executing Agency Project Managers (PMs) and team members;
UNEP Administrative Officer (AO);
Project steering committee members;
Identified stakeholders, including governmental agencies and officials, representatives from technology and educational institutions, distribution utilities, banks, associations, and NGOs.  Other project beneficiaries deemed appropriate for the review.
Performance indicators: Submission of the three (3) deliverables per deadlines
Reports are considered high-quality, as determined by UNEP compared to other terminal review reports approved by the GEF


Qualifications/special skills


Academic: An advanced university degree in economics, environmental sciences, management, or a related discipline is required;
A first-level degree with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree;
Minimum of 2 years of experience working on evaluations and monitoring of development projects in developing countries is required
Experience in working with national governments in Europe and Central Asia region or developing countries is required;
Experience working on technical aspects of projects in the environmental/ transport / climate change sector in Europe, Central Asia is desirable; more

Duties and Responsibilities


Assess and Map Funding Opportunities from Existing Donors: Undertake a comprehensive analysis of UNEP’s current donor portfolio and funding mechanisms to identify opportunities aligned with digital transformation priorities. This includes mapping existing donors’ thematic interests, funding cycles, and preferred modalities. Based on the findings, provide strategic... recommendations to enhance engagement with current donors, including proposals for thematic alignment and optimal timing. The consultant will also map and advise on opportunities to engage with regular funding calls from key sources, such as the United Nations Partnership Development Framework (UNPDF), the International Climate Initiative (IKI), and similar initiatives.
Assess and Map Funding Opportunities from New Donors: Identify and assess potential new donors with an interest in digital transformation, evaluating their strategic priorities, funding interests, and alignment with UNEP’s mandate. Analyse opportunities across a broad range of sectors, including governments, foundations, private sector entities, and innovative funding mechanisms. Based on this analysis, develop a structured outreach and engagement plan to build strategic relationships and maximize funding opportunities.
The consultant is expected to think creatively and proactively identify emerging and unconventional funding sources to support UNEP’s digital transformation agenda.
Develop Fundraising Materials: Develop compelling and tailored fundraising materials, including pitch decks, concept notes, and proposals aligned with donor priorities. Work closely with team members to refine narratives and strategically package the team's work across key thematic areas — such as environmental data, digital innovation, capacity building, and artificial intelligence — to maximize funding opportunities.
Reaching out to Potential Donors: A Proactively identify and reach out to potential donors with a focus on securing financial support for UNEP’s digital transformation priorities. Target funding sources including public sector funding mechanisms, foundations, high net worth individuals (HNWIs), among others. Work closely with team members to develop and maintain donor engagement, ensuring continuity throughout the fundraising process.
Draft and submit tailored proposals and funding requests that align UNEP’s priorities with donor interests and maximize chances of success.
Strengthen Donor Relationships and Fundraising Knowledge Management: Develop a simple and practical system to document, track, and extract key insights from donor interactions, ensuring institutional memory and continuity in fundraising efforts. This includes maintaining records of outreach, funding history, engagement strategies, and donor intelligence to inform future approaches.
Reporting to the Team on Progress and Insights: Provide regular updates to the team on fundraising activities, including progress made, challenges encountered, and emerging opportunities.
Ensure reporting is solution-oriented, highlighting successes, lessons learned, and areas for continuous improvement. Reporting should support strategic decision-making.


Qualifications/special skills


Advanced university degree (Masters or equivalent) in International Development, Business Administration, Public Policy, Environmental Science, Social Sciences or another related discipline.
At least 10 years of proven experience in fundraising, resource mobilization, or donor relations within international organizations, NGOs, or public/private sector entities.
Demonstrated success in securing funds from a variety of sources.
Experience in building long-term partnerships for transformational projects in alignment with an organization’s strategic goals.
Proven track record in managing complex donor relations and engaging with diverse stakeholders across sectors.
Experience in coordinating fundraising initiatives across multiple regions or global settings.
Experience working in or collaborating with UN agencies or other large international development organizations is an advantage.
Familiarity with environmental issues and digital transformation is highly desirable, particularly experience with projects focused on climate action, biodiversity, or environmental policy. more

The overall objective of UNEP's Ecosystems Division is to support countries in conserving, restoring and sustainably managing their terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems, the biodiversity they contain and the products and services they provide for human well-being and prosperity.
It helps countries develop policies and programmes to respond to ecosystems challenges, and reduce pollution... from land-based and sea-based activities, increase resilience to climate change and reflect linkages between poverty and environment in their development planning. The SSPU’s work is guided by its project document “Preventing and addressing the degradation of freshwater and marine ecosystems from source to sea”, which includes three key areas of work:
Enhancing Wastewater, Nutrient Management and Sanitation Provision for Marginalized Coastal Communities in Sabah, Malaysia ;
Supporting strategies, capacity and data for global wastewater and environmental surveillance in Africa; and
Capacity development project on water quality in the Wider Caribbean Region, including the Gulf of Mexico. Communication and outreach are key components for the success of this project and its areas of work. The main objective of the position of Communications Intern is to support the SSPU in the tasks of the overall communication strategy for the project “Preventing and addressing the degradation of freshwater and marine ecosystems from source to sea”.
The Communications Intern is expected to support the project team in the production and use of efficient and strategic communication products and developing awareness raising material on related topics. The Communications Intern/ will operate under the supervision of the wastewater Programme Management Officer (P4) of the SSPU in coordination with the others PMOs of the Unit, under the overall supervision of the Chief of Unit at UNEP, and in collaboration with Communication Officer of the MFB.


Qualifications/special skills


Applicants must, at the time of application, meet one of the following requirements: 
Are enrolled in a master’s or in a Ph.D. programme; or • Are enrolled in the final year of a bachelor’s programme; or Are within one year after graduation from a Bachelor’s, master’s or Ph.D. programme. in the field of communications, public relations, languages, Information Technology, Graphic Design, or equivalent.
In addition: Demonstrate pleasant interpersonal skills.
Have a demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds and beliefs, which include willingness to try and understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views.
Have a keen interest in the work of the United Nations and has a personal commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter. more

Specific Tasks and Responsibilities


Under the supervision of the Head of the Global Environment Monitoring Unit of the Early Warning and Assessment Division, the consultant will perform the following;
Development of an SDG 6.3.2 pre-data drive outreach package for the 2026 data drive:
Deliverables: Copies of updated documents and PowerPoint presentations (mid-January 2026)
Maintain... flow of country indicator submissions: Engage with countries on a continual basis to secure new submissions and updates for SDG indicator 6.3.2 at Level 1 and Level 2. (continuously)


Deliverables:


Report on indicator reporting status (mid-2026) summarising the mid-year global reporting status.
Report on indicator reporting status (November-2026) summarising the end of year global reporting status. (July 2026)
Contributing (leading on the 6.3.2 part) to related and associated reports such as the SDG 6 Synthesis Report and additional requests as required.
Deliverables: Contributions to additional reports and outputs based on the SDG indicator 6.3.2 as required (September 2026)
Provision of training and capacity development to countries on SDG indicator 6.3.2
Deliverables: Copies of presentations and short meeting reports (continuously)
Creating global outreach: Attendance at relevant international water meetings such as Stockholm WWW or workshops as required.
Deliverables: Copies of presentations and short meeting reports. (as appropriate)
Reporting and giving feedback: Attendance at relevant SDG 6 meetings as required.
Deliverables: Copies of presentations and short meeting reports for all SDG 6 meetings attended. (as appropriate)


Qualifications/special skills


A master's degree in water quality, environmental sciences, and natural resources management is required. A Bachelor's degree in combination with two qualifying years of experience may be accepted in lieu of the master’s degree.
At least seven years of professional experience in water quality monitoring or water resource management required;
A working knowledge of the methodology for SDG indicator 6.3.2 on ambient water quality required;
Experience of lead authorship and coordinating of international multi-author reports required;
Experience in capacity development for water quality in various formats desired more

Responsibilities


Coordination of the Digital Transformation Sub-programme:  Takes the lead on UNEP strategic planning including the development of the Medium-Term Strategy and Programme of Work as well as programming related to the integration of environmental and sustainability norms and goals into the global digital economy, in coordination with all other UNEP Divisions and regional... offices, and in response to national needs and cross-border and sub-regional requirements, and in support of relevant activities of the UN system, as applicable.
Ensures the coherence of UNEP initiatives across divisions and regional offices related to the application of digital tools to accelerate and amplify UNEP's impact and bring more transparency to knowledge of the state of our planet.
Ensures coherence between the work of UNEP's divisions and regional environmental coordinators for the digital transformations sub-programme and that of entities of the UN system within each region, as well as with other relevant regional entities and civil society.
Reviews UN initiatives on digital transformations management, in coordination with relevant bodies of the UN system through established inter-agency coordination mechanisms. Programme/Project Management
Participates in UNEP's project review committee analyses of projects to ensure digital tools and digital ecosystems strategically embed relevant environmental data and analytics into the work of UNEP for consistency with the decisions and guidance of UNEA and its subsidiary body; monitors implementation, reporting and evaluation of activities related to digital transformations by divisions and regional offices in UNEP, in consultation with UNEP's Corporate Service Division, identifying priorities for action, problems and issues to be addressed and proposing corrective actions.
Acts as resource person in preparation for and assists at substantive CPR debates related to an inclusive data architecture and digital ecosystem for the planet, upon request. Resource Mobilization
Takes the lead in developing UNEP's strategy for extra-budgetary resource mobilization related to the management of digital tools and in identifying priorities for the allocation of available resources for UNEP's activities in this area. Gender Mainstreaming
Ensures implementation of gender mainstreaming guidelines by assessing the implications for men and women of planned actions in the area of digital transformation. This includes legislation, policies, or programmes, in all areas and at all levels.
Data Strategy Leads team members efforts to collect and analyze data and provides insight to identify trends or patterns for data-driven planning, decision-making, presentation and reporting. Ensures that everyone can discover, access, integrate and share the data they need.


Education


An advanced university degree (Master's or Doctorate degree, or equivalent) in environment, digital innovation, computing, data science or development field is required.
A first-level degree (bachelor's degree or equivalent) in the specified fields of studies with two (2) additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is desirable.


Work Experience


A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible working experience in project or programme management in complex socio-economic settings is required Experience in environmental and sustainable development and policy analysis at the international level is desirable.
Experience in strategic digital transformation is desirable.
Experience in using data to guide decisions, develop strategic direction, and oversee execution is desirable. Experience in adaptive management, resource allocation for delivery of corporate results and data collection and reporting is desirable.
Experience in strategic planning and programming for environmental/developmental programmes is desirable. Experience in data analytics or related area is desirable. more

Specific tasks and responsibilities


Programme/Project Development Monitor status of programme/project proposals and receipt of relevant documentation for review and approval. Research, compile and present basic country project information/data for use in preparation of project proposals
Project/Programme implementation Prepare Project Cooperation Agreements (PCA) and Internal Cooperation... Agreements (ICAs) and their annexes for CEO approved projects
Prepare PCA/ICA amendment packages for approval by UNEP and Executing Agencies (EAs).
Track circulation of project agreements and project revisions through UNEP approval process. - Review project implementation plans, work plans and budgets; verifies availability of funds; ensure necessary approval and entry in computerized budget system.
Compile, summarize and enter data on project delivery; draft related status reports, identifying shortfalls in delivery, budget overruns, etc., and bring to the attention of the task manager.
Prepare reporting templates to be used by UNEP partners and ensure the EAs from the assigned countries use them to meet reporting requirements, and all sections are completed
Review project expenditure and progress reports to ensure technical and financial compliance with reporting requirement of UNEP, the GEF and the UNFCCC
Guide EAs undertaking project revisions, including the review of budgets and workplans for the assigned countries
Organize meetings with EAs from the assigned countries to discuss disparities identified in reports submitted, over-expenditure against budget lines as well as strategies for the sustainability of the projects.
Support in the administration and consolidation of data from the annual survey’s status of climate report preparation.
Provide support to financial team in financial closure of projects
Prepare Operational Completion Reports for three (3) projects and one (1) umbrella Programme for assigned countries.
Programme/Project Administration Organize and facilitate Enabling Activities Portfolio meetings, as and when needed.
Ensure proper filing and archiving project information of the assigned countries.
Assist with the collection and analysis of data as well as preparation of data presentations and reports for information sharing, responding to queries, knowledge management, planning and decision making. - Support the functionality of the MS Planner, and/or other tracking tools to ensure timely circulation of reports, revisions and other documents.
Prepare a monthly report with a list of completed deliverables. Performance indicators High quality NC, BUR and BTR budgets, workplans, and Quarterly reports prepared by Executing Agencies.
High quality NC, BUR and BTR reports prepared and submitted by national teams in a timely manner.
General and timely coordination and tracking of the enabling activities project portfolio is provided.


Qualifications/special skills


Advanced university degree in one of the following fields is required: natural resources management, biological or physical sciences or environmental sciences studies, international relations or related fields.
A first level degree with additional two (2) years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.
A minimum of two (2) years experience in programme or project administration, technical cooperation, or related area is required.
Experience working with national governments on climate change issues is desirable.
Knowledge of task management and team collaboration tools is desirable
Knowledge of the Global Environment Facility or other international multilateral climate funds is desirable
Knowledge of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) processes is desirable. more

Responsibilities


BUDGET: May act as Officer on behalf of and in the absence of programme managers at office outside of headquarters. • Provides support with respect to the review, analyses and preparation of the medium-term plan and its revisions.
Prepares supporting documents (narrative and supporting tables) with respect to finalization of cost estimates and budget proposals, in terms of... staff and non-staff requirements.
Assists managers in the elaboration of resource requirements for budget submissions.
Undertakes research and provides support to higher level Finance & Budget Officers with respect to budget reviews of relevant intergovernmental and expert bodies.
Monitors expenditures and compares with approved budget; prepares adjustments as necessary.
Reviews requisitions for goods and services to ensure (a) correct objects of expenditure have been charged, and (b) availability of funds.
Assists in preparation of budget performance submissions and finalization of budget performance reports, analysing variances between approved budgets and actual expenditures.  Monitors integrity of various financial databases.
Verifies accuracy of input data, ensuring consistency of data in previous allotments to new allotments issued.
Co-ordinates with other finance and budget staff on related issues during preparation of budget reports.
Periodic reconciliation of accounts (UMOJA system).
GENERAL: Keeping up to date on documents/reports/guidelines that have a bearing on matters related to programme, ensuring compliance with intergovernmental recommendations and decisions as well as with United Nations policies and procedures.
Drafting or prepares correspondence to respond to enquiries in respect to relevant financial and budget matters. • Maintaining and keep up-to-date files.
May be responsible for providing guidance, training and daily supervision to other general service staff in the area of responsibility.
Assists with the collection and analysis of data as well as preparation of data presentations and reports for information sharing, responding to queries, knowledge management, planning and decision making. • Assists with visualizations and updating information material such as web pages or brochures.
Performs other related duties, as assigned.


Education


High school diploma or equivalent.


Work Experience


A minimum of (7) seven years of progressively responsible work experience in finance and accounting is required.
The minimum years of relevant experience is reduced to two (2) for candidates who possess a first-level university degree or higher.
Work experience with an international organization and/or with Global Fund Secretariats/Boards is desirable.
Work experience with an Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP) system, such as Umoja or similar tool is desirable. Experience with Global Environment Facility (GEF) financial management is desirable.
Experience with data analysis, reconciliations and reporting is desirable. more

Key Tasks and responsibilities:


Conduct a gap analysis of existing communication systems, tools and practices within Biodiversity and Land Branch This will include but not limited to assessing existing communication assets, their use and accessibility as well as interviewing personnel and partners to understand communication needs and challenges.
Identify and categorize key internal and... external stakeholders through mapping and analysis, which will then inform tailored messaging for each group.
Develop a consolidated communication strategy/framework for Biodiversity and Land Branch by building on existing communication plans for individual Units and programmes as applicable.
Develop the action plan (road map) to support the implementation of the strategy/framework.
Provide Implementation Support: - Rollout of implementation the communication strategy/framework by developing content, tools, products, guidelines and training materials, and organizing capacity-building activities (e.g. workshops, webinars).
Identify and utilize channels, platforms, networks and media, among others, to effectively communicate key messages to specific stakeholders in line with corporate policy
Identify and utilize effective communication channels to support the dissemination of Biodiversity and Land Branch communication and knowledge products.
Coordinate closely with communications focal points in the Branch and the Communications Division to implement the assignment.
Communication efforts will be strategically aligned with the Medium-Term Strategy (MTS), Programme of Work (POW), and will support the delivery in priority areas identified under the Nature Action Programme.


Qualifications/special skills


Master's degree or equivalent in communication, information science, knowledge management, international development or related fields is required.
A minimum of seven years of work experience in communication and advocacy, knowledge management, organizational learning, information systems or related fields is required.
Experience in developing communication strategies, digital tools and delivering on related plans in multi- cultural teams is required
Experience in delivering communications within the UN system and environmental programs is an advantage more

Responsibilities


Human Resources Management: Coordinates various actions related to the administration of the Division's human resource activities, e.g., recruitment, placement, promotion, relocation, performance appraisal, job classification reviews, separation of staff members and training, ensuring consistency in the application of UN rules and procedures.
Liaises with central... administration/executive services (UNEP Corporate Services Division and UNON Human Resources Management Service) as required.
Oversees the maintenance of vacancy announcement files and keeps track of status of vacancy announcements.
Provides advice and answers general queries on classification procedures and processes.
Provides information and advice to staff/consultants with respect to conditions of service, duties and responsibilities, and privileges and entitlements under the Staff Rules and Regulations.
Monitors Umoja staffing tables for a variety of human resource activities, e.g., appointments, retirement, expiration of appointments, reassignments, transfer, and movement of staff.
Collects data from relevant databases/systems/Business Intelligence platforms and prepares customized HR reports.
General Administration: Serves as a communication link between the Director and staff members and on behalf of the Director keeps staff members informed by conveying directives, reports, status updates and other relevant information, and brings sensitive and urgent matters to the Director's attention.
Focal point for Climate Action Division correspondence logs, routing, and follow-up to ensure timely response and closure of log in the system.
Provides advice and clarification to General Service staff members on office management and improvement of administrative procedures.
Provides substantive and administrative support in managing priorities and workflow of the Director and coordinates multiple and diverse activities to ensure that management directives and decisions are properly carried out and delivered in a timely manner. 


Education


High school diploma or equivalent is required.


Work Experience


A minimum of ten (10) years of experience in human resources and administrative services is required.
The minimum years of relevant experience is reduced to eight (8) years for candidates who possess a first level university degree.
At least seven (7) years͛’ experience in recruitment of staff and other personnel is desirable.
Experience working with an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, specifically with post management is desirable.
A minimun of one (1) year experience in data analytics or related area is desirable. more