The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is inviting applications for an Associate Programme Officer – Sciences position based in Dakar, Senegal. This exciting international opportunity offers professionals with expertise in environmental science, biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and ecosystem management the chance to contribute to sustainable development initiatives across 15 West African countries.
Working within UNESCO’s Natural Sciences Sector, the successful candidate will support regional programmes that strengthen biodiversity conservation, sustainable natural resource management, climate adaptation, water security, disaster risk reduction, and scientific cooperation while collaborating with governments, research institutions, development partners, civil society, and United Nations agencies.
About the Position
The Associate Programme Officer will work under the overall authority of the UNESCO Regional Director and the supervision of the Programme Specialist for Sciences. The position supports the planning, implementation, monitoring, and coordination of natural sciences programmes that advance environmental sustainability and resilience throughout West Africa.
This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to UNESCO’s efforts in promoting science-based solutions for sustainable development while supporting regional environmental policies and innovative partnerships.
UNESCO Hiring Programme Officers for Climate Resilience and Ecosystem Management Applications Open | Application Deadline: 13 July 2026
Position Details
- Organization: UNESCO
- Job Title: Associate Programme Officer – Sciences
- Contract Type: Service Contract
- Grade: SC-8
- Duty Station: Dakar, Senegal
- Work Arrangement: On-site
- Contract Duration: 12 months
- Recruitment Type: External Candidates
- Application Deadline: 13 July 2026
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will support UNESCO’s Natural Sciences programme through a broad range of technical and programme management activities.
Programme Implementation
Responsibilities include:
- Supporting the development and implementation of activities related to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, and climate resilience.
- Contributing to the implementation of the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.
- Assisting with Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) initiatives.
- Supporting programmes in water sciences, basic sciences, and disaster risk management.
- Coordinating activities based on Member States’ priorities.
- Monitoring programme implementation and preparing technical reports.
Partnership Development
The Associate Programme Officer will:
- Collaborate with governments and national authorities.
- Engage with UNESCO National Commissions.
- Coordinate with United Nations agencies.
- Work alongside scientific institutions and universities.
- Build partnerships with NGOs, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
- Participate in regional and international coordination platforms.
Resource Mobilization
Responsibilities also include:
- Developing project concepts and funding proposals.
- Responding to calls for project submissions.
- Supporting fundraising initiatives.
- Building partnerships with multilateral donors.
- Identifying opportunities to expand UNESCO programme activities.
Project Management
The role involves:
- Planning project implementation according to approved logical frameworks.
- Coordinating project activities with implementing partners.
- Organizing field monitoring and evaluation missions.
- Preparing technical and progress reports.
- Maintaining relationships with stakeholders and beneficiaries.
- Promoting project visibility through communication activities.
Required Qualifications
Applicants should possess:
Education
- Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in:
- Natural Sciences
- Environmental Sciences
- Ecology
- Natural Resource Management
- Environmental Engineering
- Or another closely related discipline
Professional Experience
Candidates should preferably have:
- At least two years of relevant professional experience.
- Experience in environmental engineering or ecology.
- Experience in biodiversity conservation.
- Experience in natural resource management.
- Experience in ecosystem management projects.
Desirable experience includes work involving:
- Ecological research
- Environmental education
- Biodiversity conservation
- Water resource management
- Climate change adaptation
- Climate resilience
- Vulnerability assessments
- Disaster risk reduction
Core Competencies
UNESCO seeks candidates who demonstrate:
- Strong communication skills
- Accountability
- Innovation
- Planning and organization
- Teamwork
- Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement
- Professional integrity
- Respect for diversity
Why Join UNESCO?
Working with UNESCO offers the opportunity to:
- Support sustainable development across West Africa.
- Contribute to biodiversity and ecosystem conservation.
- Advance climate resilience initiatives.
- Collaborate with international development partners.
- Work alongside leading environmental scientists and policymakers.
- Build a rewarding career within the United Nations system.
- Help strengthen science-based environmental policies and programmes.
Recruitment Process
The UNESCO recruitment process may include:
- Online application review.
- Written assessments.
- Pre-recorded video interviews.
- Panel interviews.
- Reference checks.
- Additional documentation where required.
Applicants must complete their application through the UNESCO Careers portal, ensuring that all information provided is accurate and complete before submission.
UNESCO Commitment
UNESCO is committed to recruiting professionals who demonstrate the highest standards of competence, integrity, and professionalism. The organization promotes equal opportunity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, disability, ethnic background, or other protected characteristics.
UNESCO maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment and does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the official UNESCO Careers website before 13 July 2026. Applicants are encouraged to prepare their academic qualifications, professional experience, and supporting documentation well in advance of the application deadline.
Conclusion
The UNESCO Associate Programme Officer – Sciences position provides an outstanding opportunity for environmental professionals to contribute to climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, and sustainable development across West Africa. For candidates passionate about protecting natural resources while working in an international development environment, this role offers meaningful work, regional impact, and valuable career growth within one of the world’s leading United Nations agencies.
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