About United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

TheUnited Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)is the leading global environmental authority that sets the world’s environmental agenda, promotes coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP works with governments, civil society, businesses and other UN entities to address critical environmental challenges including climate change, ecosystem degradation, chemicals and waste management, and environmental governance. UNEP’s mission is to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Job Summary

This Data Scientist, P4 position offers an opportunity to make a significant impact within United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)’s work in environmental protection, climate action, and sustainable development. Based in Kenya, you will contribute your expertise to advance the organization’s mission and support international cooperation on critical global challenges. This role offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic, multicultural environment while contributing to meaningful outcomes that benefit communities worldwide.

Key Details

• Job Title:Data Scientist, P4
• Grade:P-4
• Location:Nairobi, Kenya
• Department:United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
• Contract Type:Professional Staff
• Salary Range:$84,672.0 – $106,777.0 USD annually

Qualifications

• Advanced university degree (Masters degree or equivalent) in data science, computer science, artificial intelligence, or a closely related field, is required. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For th is job opening, English is required. French is desirable. The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework (please consult https://languages.un.org for details). Required Languages Language Reading Writing Listening Speaking English UN Level II UN Level II UN Level II UN Level II Desirable Languages Language Reading Writing Listening Speaking French UN Level II UN Level II UN Level II UN Level II
• A minimum of (7) seven years of progressively responsible experience in data science is required. Experience in using data to advance decisions, strategies and execution is required. Experience managing small teams is required. Experience of working with international multi-agency projects, ideally in an environmental context is desirable. Experience of data science tools such as Jupyter, Matlab, Knime, SPSS, SAS, or similar Statistical Programming Languages such as R, Python, Javascript or related is desirable. Experience contributing to technical publications (peer- reviewed or on established technical fora) in AI or data science is desirable Experience building AI/data models for the environment is desirable.

Skills

• PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge of data analys is life cycle from ingest and wrangling to analys is and visualization to present findings. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, ability to build new products and drive new approaches. Ability to convey complex / difficult data science topics to clients in a relatable manner. Takes pride in the work for the organization and understands the impact that can be brought into the organization by allowing data-driven and evidence-based decisions. 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. TEAMWORK: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings. CLIENT ORIENTATION: Considers all those to whom services are provided to be clients and seeks to see things from clients point of view. Establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect. Identifies clients needs and matches them to appropriate solutions. Monitors ongoing developments inside and outside the clients environment to keep informed and anticipate problems. Keeps clients informed of progress or setbacks in projects. Meets timeline for delivery of products or services to client. MANAGING PERFORMANCE: Delegates the appropriate responsibility, accountability and decision-making authority. Makes sure that roles, responsibilities and reporting lines are clear to each staff member. Accurately judges the amount of time and resources needed to accomplish a task and matches task to skills. Monitors progress against milestones and deadlines. Regularly discusses performance and provides feedback and coaching to staff. Encourages risk-taking and supports creativity and initiative. Actively supports the development and career aspirations of staff. Appraises performance fairly.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Professional development opportunities
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
• Inclusive and collaborative work environment

How to Apply