UN Internships in Kenya, May 2018

United Nations Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity

Org. Setting and Reporting

The United Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) 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. UN Environment’s Ecosystems Division works with international and national partners, providing technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy, and strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. This post is located in Ecosystem Division at the Nairobi Duty station under the supervision of the Head of the Climate Change Adaptation Unit (CCAU). Under the supervision of the Programme Officer, Adaptation Fund, the incumbent will be responsible for the following duties:

Responsibilities

• Participate in the development, implementation and evaluation of the Lake Victoria Basin project and other related climate change adaptation projects; monitor and analyse 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; identify and track follow-up actions. Perform consulting assignments, in collaboration with the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC), by planning facilitating workshops, through other interactive sessions and assisting in developing the action plan the commission will use to manage the change. Research, analyze and present information gathered from diverse sources. Assist in policy development, including the review and analysis of issues and trends, preparation of evaluations or other research activities and studies. • Undertake survey initiatives; design data collection tools; reviews, analyze and interpret responses, identify problems/issues and prepare conclusions. Prepare various written outputs, e.g. draft background papers, analysis, sections of reports and studies, inputs to publications, etc. Provide substantive support to consultative and other meetings, conferences, etc., to include proposing agenda topics, identifying participants, preparation of documents and presentations, etc. Participate in or lead field missions, including provision of guidance to external consultants, government officials and other parties and drafting mission summaries, etc.
  Coordinate activities related to budget and funding (programme/project preparation and submissions, progress reports, financial statements, for the Adaptation Fund Secretariat etc.) and prepares related documents/reports (pledging, work programme, programme budget, etc.). Perform other related duties as required.

Competencies

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.

COMMUNICATION: 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.

PLANNING & ORGANZING: 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 asnecessary; uses time efficiently.

Education

An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in the field of environmental management, natural resources discipline or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two (2) additional years of qualifying experience may be acceptable in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Work Experience

A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management or related area is required. Experience working on climate change adaptation, ecosystem services in connection with vulnerable populations in Africa (especially East Africa) is desirable. Experience connecting climate change adaptation to trans-boundary water management and working within national governments and intergovernmental bodies in East Africa is an asset.

Languages

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

Assessment

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

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