The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is a leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the environment. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, UNEP works to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.
As UNEP continues to deliver on its critical mission, the organization is currently seeking highly motivated, passionate, and qualified individuals to fill several strategic and support roles at its Nairobi headquarters. These roles span policy, finance, and programme management functions, offering a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to global environmental sustainability.
Below are the current open positions:
1. Policy Specialist – Transformational Adaptation
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Level: Mid-Senior Level
Job Description:
The Policy Specialist will provide strategic and technical support to UNEP’s work on transformational adaptation to climate change. The role involves shaping and advancing adaptation strategies that go beyond incremental approaches, ensuring systemic change that enhances climate resilience across key sectors.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide thought leadership and policy guidance on transformational adaptation strategies and frameworks.
- Conduct and oversee analysis on emerging adaptation policy trends and their relevance to UNEP’s work.
- Lead stakeholder consultations and inter-agency coordination for adaptation projects.
- Prepare high-quality policy briefs, reports, and technical documents for internal and external audiences.
- Support UNEP’s engagement in global adaptation processes, including participation in conferences and multilateral dialogues.
- Provide technical assistance to countries and regions seeking to mainstream adaptation into their development plans.
2. Deputy Director, Programme
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Level: Director
Job Description:
The Deputy Director will serve as a key member of UNEP’s leadership team, supporting the Director in overseeing programme strategy, policy implementation, operations, and the alignment of projects with the organization’s mandate.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in strategic planning, development, and implementation of UNEP’s programme activities.
- Coordinate and supervise the work of multidisciplinary teams within the Programme Division.
- Ensure alignment of programme objectives with UNEP’s broader environmental agenda.
- Oversee budgeting, performance management, and staff supervision.
- Foster collaboration with UN agencies, donors, and key partners to leverage resources and scale impact.
- Represent UNEP at high-level meetings and global policy forums.
3. Finance and Budget Assistant
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Level: Entry Level
Job Description:
The Finance and Budget Assistant will support the preparation and management of UNEP’s financial plans and budgets, ensuring accuracy, transparency, and compliance with UN financial rules and procedures.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in the preparation and review of financial and budgetary documents.
- Monitor budget implementation and recommend reallocation of funds when necessary.
- Prepare reports and financial data for audits and evaluations.
- Verify accuracy of financial transactions and perform data reconciliation.
- Support the maintenance of financial systems and update records accordingly.
- Assist in processing payments and ensuring adherence to UN financial guidelines.
4. Programme Management Assistant (First Position)
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Level: Entry Level
Job Description:
The Programme Management Assistant will provide administrative and logistical support to facilitate smooth execution of UNEP’s environmental programmes and initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in the coordination of programme/project planning and execution.
- Maintain programme documents, databases, and filing systems.
- Prepare draft reports, correspondence, and meeting minutes.
- Track project timelines, milestones, and deliverables.
- Organize meetings, workshops, and travel arrangements for project staff.
- Perform general administrative tasks as required to support programme operations.
5. Programme Management Assistant (Second Position)
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Level: Entry Level
Job Description:
This role is similar to the first Programme Management Assistant position and offers an opportunity to work with UNEP’s project management teams to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of projects.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide administrative and logistical support to project teams.
- Monitor project progress and compile data for reporting.
- Support the organization of stakeholder meetings and field activities.
- Assist in drafting project documentation and supporting files.
- Liaise with internal departments and external partners for coordination.
6. Programme Management Officer
Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Level: Mid-Senior Level
Job Description:
The Programme Management Officer will be responsible for the design, implementation, and evaluation of complex environmental projects and programmes in support of UNEP’s strategic objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and manage multi-disciplinary environmental programmes and projects.
- Coordinate with other UN agencies, governments, and partners on programme delivery.
- Ensure project activities align with UNEP’s strategic goals and funding requirements.
- Monitor and evaluate project performance and prepare periodic progress reports.
- Prepare project proposals and liaise with donors on funding opportunities.
- Provide technical and policy guidance to project staff and stakeholders.
Why Join UNEP?
Working with UNEP offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in advancing the global environmental agenda. As part of a diverse and passionate team, you will be empowered to contribute to solutions that protect our planet for future generations. Employees benefit from a dynamic international work environment, competitive compensation, and opportunities for professional growth within the UN system.
