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 Programme Management Officer position offers an exciting opportunity to lead and coordinate critical programmes within United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)’s environmental protection, climate action, and sustainable development portfolio. Based in Panama, you will oversee programme implementation, manage stakeholder relationships, and ensure the delivery of high-quality results that advance the organization’s strategic objectives. You will be responsible for programme planning, monitoring and evaluation, resource mobilization, and coordination with government partners, civil society, and other UN agencies. This role is ideal for experienced professionals with strong leadership skills, programme management expertise, and a commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection.

Key Details

• Job Title:Programme Management Officer, P4
• Grade:P-4
• Location:Panama City, Panama
• 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 biodiversity sciences, environmental sciences, natural resource management, natural resource policy, environmental policy, environmental economics or a closely related field is required. A first level university degree in combination with two (2) additional years of relevant qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is desirable.
• English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For th is job opening, English is required. Spanish and Portuguese are required. 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 III UN Level III UN Level III UN Level III Spanish UN Level III UN Level III UN Level III UN Level III Portuguese UN Level III UN Level III UN Level III UN Level III
• A minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in biodiversity and land degradation issues in the Latin America and the Caribbean developing countries / countries in transition is required. Work experience with conceptualizing and developing projects and programmes in the ecosystems and biodiversity field is required. Work experience working with the Global Environment Facility is desirable. A minimum of two (2) years or more of experience in data analytics or related area is desirable.

Skills

• PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge and understanding of approaches relevant to project/programme management, environmental management, biodiversity sciences or related area. 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 analys is, 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. Able to analyze and interpret data in support of decision-making and convey resulting information to management. 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 AND ORGANIZING: 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 as necessary; uses time efficiently. LEADERSHIP: Serves as a role model that other people want to follow. Empowers others to translate vision into results. Is proactive in developing strategies to accomplish objectives. Establishes and maintains relationships with a broad range of people to understand needs and gain support. Anticipates and resolves conflicts by pursuing mutually agreeable solutions. Drives for change and improvement; does not accept the status quo. Shows the courage to take unpopular stands. Provides leadership and takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work; demonstrates knowledge of strategies and commitment to the goal of gender balance in staffing

Benefits

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

How to Apply