The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking a Special Assistant, Administration for its Climate Change Division based in Nairobi, Kenya (Apply by 11/04/25)

Special Assistant, Administration – United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking a Special Assistant, Administration for its Climate Change Division based in Nairobi, Kenya. This opportunity provides an exciting chance to contribute to global environmental efforts, particularly in the field of climate change, while playing a key administrative role in supporting the work of the UNEP’s Climate Change Division. If you have experience in sustainable development, environmental management, or public administration, and want to be part of a global organization tackling the most pressing environmental issues, this position may be an excellent fit for you.

Position Overview:

• Job Title: Special Assistant, Administration
• Job Opening ID: 252314
• Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
• Category & Level: Professional and Higher Categories, P-3
• Deadline for Application: April 11, 2025
• Organization: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

About UNEP’s Climate Change Division:

The UNEP is the leading global environmental authority, setting the global environmental agenda and advocating for the implementation of the environmental aspects of sustainable development. The Climate Change Division plays a pivotal role in advancing global climate action, supporting countries in their transition toward sustainable, climate-resilient development. The division works with Member States, partners, and stakeholders to bridge gaps in mitigation and adaptation efforts, and enhances access to finance and technology, while also promoting effective climate policies.

Key Responsibilities:

As a Special Assistant, your role will be multi-faceted, supporting both administrative and strategic functions within the Climate Change Division. Your responsibilities will include:

1. Analytical and Strategic Support:
   • Review and analyze policy papers, reports, and documents related to environmental and climate issues.
   • Prepare recommendations for the Director of the Climate Change Division based on your analysis.
   • Support in drafting policy papers and preparing reports and briefing notes for high-level meetings.
2. Meeting and Event Coordination:
   • Organize major workshops, meetings, and events, ensuring smooth logistics and effective communication with governments and other stakeholders.
   • Act as Secretary for divisional management meetings, take minutes, and follow up on decisions made during meetings.
   • Ensure that all administrative and analytical procedures, such as travel arrangements, are in line with the Director’s requirements.
3. Climate Change Program Management:
   • Support the preparation of documents for the UN Environment Assembly, Committee of Permanent Representatives, and other relevant meetings.
   • Oversee the development and implementation of the Climate Change Division’s work program and ensure that deadlines and reporting requirements are met.
4. Administrative and Institutional Tasks:
   • Draft letters, memoranda, and reports for the Director’s signature.
   • Liaise with the Executive Office and other UNEP special assistants regarding divisional concerns.
   • Collect and analyze data to identify patterns and trends, providing insights for decision-making.
5. Additional Support:
   • Assist with the organization and logistics of international climate change meetings, such as the UN Climate Change Conference (COP).
   • Provide support during missions undertaken by the Director, or undertake missions on behalf of the Director.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental studies, climate change, social or political sciences, business administration, or a related field.
• A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.
• Successful completion of degree or non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is a desirable asset.

Experience:

• A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development, environment-related programs, or public administration, ideally within the UN system or a similar international organization.
• Experience in data analytics, research on climate change policies, and preparing briefing materials for high-level meetings is highly desirable.

Languages:

• Fluency in English is required.
• Knowledge of another UN official language is an asset.

Skills and Competencies:

• Professionalism: Strong knowledge of UNEP’s policies, activities, and UN rules and regulations, with the ability to analyze complex environmental issues.
• Teamwork: Collaborative approach to achieving organizational goals with a willingness to share credit for team accomplishments.
• Planning and Organizing: Ability to develop clear goals and adjust priorities when required while ensuring deadlines are met.
• Communication: Proficient in writing reports, preparing presentations, and delivering briefings to diverse audiences.

Why Apply for This Position?

Working with UNEP provides an exceptional opportunity to be part of a dynamic team at the forefront of global environmental action. By supporting the Climate Change Division, you will contribute to addressing some of the world’s most urgent environmental challenges, particularly those related to climate change. Additionally, this role offers valuable experience in a high-level international organization and the chance to grow your skills in administration, policy development, and climate-related programming.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their application, including a CV and cover letter, by April 11, 2025. Please follow the instructions on the UN careers portal to ensure your application is complete.

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Don’t miss your chance to contribute to global environmental change. Apply today!

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