The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is Hiring a Programme Assistant for the duration of 12 months

Position Title: Programme Assistant – Climate Action Subprogramme
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Organization: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
Duration: 12 months
Closing Date: 14 May 2025

About United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.

Position Summary

The Programme Assistant will support the Climate Action Subprogramme within UNEP’s Climate Change Division. This role involves assisting in the strategic planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of climate action initiatives, ensuring alignment with UNEP’s Medium-Term Strategy (MTS) and Programme of Work (PoW). The position requires close collaboration with various divisions and regional offices to promote coherence and synergies across UNEP’s climate-related activities.

Key Responsibilities

1. Portfolio Coordination

• Assist in the design and implementation of the Climate Action Subprogramme across UNEP divisions and regional offices.
• Review project and programme concepts to ensure alignment with MTS strategic objectives.
• Provide guidance on thematic alignment with strategic priorities, working with Programme and Project Direct Responsible Individuals (DRIs).
• Participate in Project Review Committee secretariat analysis to ensure consistency with MTS, PoW, and UNEA decisions.
• Conduct monthly reviews of the portfolio status, identifying necessary rectifying measures.

2. Strategic Planning

• Support strategic planning processes resulting in the MTS, PoW, and Programme Budget Fascicles.
• Facilitate the drafting of climate action sections of the 2026-2029 MTS and PoW.
• Collaborate with Regional Subprogramme Coordinators to ensure regional and country engagement.
• Review Subprogramme successes and challenges in previous MTS and PoW implementations.

3. Reporting and Analysis

• Compile results related to the Climate Action Subprogramme, such as Quarterly, Annual, and Programme Performance Reports.
• Support Programme Performance Reporting to the Governing Bodies, identifying risks and mitigation measures.
• Develop and monitor tools like the Subprogramme PoW progress tracker.
• Assist in preparation for and during substantive Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR) debates related to the subprogramme.

4. Capacity Building

• Support capacity building on Results-Based Management (RBM) across UNEP.
• Assist in the development and dissemination of RBM tools and guidelines.
• Provide training and support to UNEP staff on RBM principles and practices.

5. Administrative Support

• Provide general administrative support to the Climate Action Subprogramme.
• Assist in organizing meetings, workshops, and conferences.
• Maintain and update project files and documentation.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Skills

Education:

• A Master’s degree in environmental sciences, natural resources management, international development, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree with 2 years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:

• At least 2 years of experience at the national or international level in sustainable development, natural resources management, engineering, or the implementation of environmental-related programmes and projects is required.
• Prior experience with developmental projects, climate change, and developing country contexts is an asset.

Languages:

• Fluency in English (oral and written) is required. Working knowledge of another UN language would be an asset.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Familiarity with data analysis and reporting tools is desirable.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications by 14 May 2025. Applications should include a detailed resume and a cover letter outlining the candidate’s qualifications and experience relevant to the position.

Additional Information

• The position is subject to local recruitment pursuant to staff rule 4.4 of the United Nations Staff Rules.
• Applicants for positions in the General Service and related categories must be authorized to work for the United Nations in the duty station where the position is located.
• The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing, or training).

For more information visit the Careers Portal and to apply click here.

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