Service Contract
Support implementation of Sciences program for biodiversity and climate resilience in West Africa.
Overview
Support implementation of Sciences program for biodiversity and climate resilience in West Africa.
You have:
- Advanced university degree (Master II or equivalent) in Natural Sciences with good expertise in sustainable management of natural resources or related field.
- Preferably a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in environmental engineering, ecology, biodiversity and/or natural resources management.
- Experience at international or regional level is desirable.
- Experience in ecosystem and biodiversity conservation would be an asset.
**JOB DETAILS** --------------- **Type of contract :** Service Contract **Level :** SC8 **Hiring Unit :** Natural Sciences Sector (SC) **Duty Station :** Dakar **Work location :** On site **Duration of contract** **:** 12 months **Hiring open to :** External candidates **Application deadline (Midnight UTC±0 (UTC) Time) :** 13/07/2026 **UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism** **SUPERVISION** --------------- Under the overall authority of the Regional Director and the supervision of the program specialist for Sciences, the incumbent will be responsible for supporting the implementation of Sciences program in 15 countries of West Africa covered by the office. **DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES** ------------------------------- Within this context, the incumbent will be responsible for: **Program Implementation** - Contribute to the development, coordination and implementation of activities related to biodiversity, ecosystems management and climate resilience within the framework of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Program and based on Member States needs. - Support the implementation, monitoring, evaluation and reporting of the other Natural Sciences sector activities such as Science Technology and Innovation (STI), water sciences, basic sciences, and Disaster Risk Management. - Interact regularly with various stakeholders (regional, national and local authorities, National Commission for UNESCO, United Nations agencies, scientific institutions, private sector, NGOs, sub-regional organizations) for the development and implementation of joint programs; Participate in the Organization's representation activities in the various exchange platforms. - Contributing to resource mobilization by responding to calls for projects and developing concept notes and project proposals in accordance with national priorities in order to strengthen program activities related to natural resources management. - Contribute to the search and development of partnerships with national authorities, the private sector, civil society, NGOs and multilateral funding bodies. - Supporting UNESCO in its role as a hub of ideas and innovations for Sustainable Development. **Project management support** - Coordinate the planning of project activities in accordance with their logical frameworks. - Ensure the implementation of activities in close collaboration with the various stakeholders. - Organize monitoring and evaluation missions in the field when needed, ensuring the effective involvement of beneficiaries and the preparation of related reports - Establish, develop and maintain consistent working relationships with project partners. - Ensure the visibility of projects through regular communication and maintain the link with internal and external partners. Long Description ---------------- **Work experience** - Preferably a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in the areas of environmental engineering, ecology, biodiversity and/or natural resources management. - Experience in activities and/or projects that involved ecological science education, training and/or research on ecosystems and biodiversity conservation, water management, vulnerability analysis, adaptation and resilience within the context of climate change, is desirable. **REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS** --------------------------- **Education** - Advanced university degree (Master II or equivalent degree) in the field of Natural sciences with good expertise in sustainable management of natural resources or in a related field. Long Description ---------------- **Desirable qualifications** - Experience at international or regional level - Experience in ecosystems and biodiversity conservation would be an asset **COMPETENCIES - Core (C) & Managerial (M)** ------------------------------------------------ - Communication (C) - Accountability (C) - Innovation (C) - Knowlegde sharing and continuous improvement (C) - Planning and organizing (C) - Results focus (C) - Teamwork (C)For detailed information, please consult the [UNESCO Competency Framework](https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000245056?posInSet=9&queryId=bcd2a5ea-9a90-4938-88c1-3f56099f4201). Long Description ---------------- **SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS** ------------------------------------- Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information, by the above deadline. To apply, please visit the [UNESCO Careers website](https://careers.unesco.org/careersection/2/joblist.ftl?locale=en_GB). No modifications can be made to the application once submitted. The process may include pre-recorded video interviews and/or written assessments, interviews with a Panel, as well as reference checks. In addition, candidates may be requested to provide additional information which may be pertinent to the position’s qualifications. Please note that all candidates, whether selected or not, will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course. Short-listed candidates may also be added to Talent Pools; subject to their consent (i.e. Data Privacy Statement). **ADDITIONAL INFORMATION** -------------------------- - UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of personnel shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity. - UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment. - lndividuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. - All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality. - The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years. - UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the hiring process.
Potential interview questions
| Can you describe your experience in project management related to biodiversity? | This question assesses your direct experience and achievements in managing biodiversity projects. | Highlight specific projects, your role, and outcomes related to biodiversity. |
| How do you approach resource mobilization for environmental projects? | The interviewer wants to know your strategy and success in securing funding. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What challenges have you faced in implementing environmental programs and how did you overcome them? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe a situation where you collaborated with multiple stakeholders on a project. What was your role? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What strategies do you use for monitoring and evaluating project outcomes? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Can you give an example of how you have influenced policy or practice in natural resource management? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you envision UNESCO's role in sustainable development in your area of expertise? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What innovations have you brought to past projects? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |