Biodiversity and ESD Project Specialist – Level A

About the role

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking a Biodiversity and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) Project Specialist (Level A) for a 7‑month consultancy based in Vienna, Austria. The specialist will support the Carpathian Convention Secretariat in advancing biodiversity conservation, large‑carnivore action plans, and ecological connectivity across the Carpathian region.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to the revised International Action Plan on Conservation of Large Carnivores and Ecological Connectivity in the Carpathians.
• Support implementation of projects such as CARPATHIAN LIFE, NaturaConnect, and linking biodiversity, pastoralism, and cultural heritage through ESD.
• Coordinate and draft inputs for project applications, background documents, and technical papers.
• Assist in organizing Carpathian Convention meetings, including CCIC sessions, Working Group on Biodiversity, and COP8.
• Facilitate activities of the Carpathian ESD Expert Network, including Carpathian Day coordination and educational resource stock‑takes.
• Prepare background papers, policy notes, and briefing materials ensuring scientific accuracy and alignment with EU and global frameworks.
• Develop strategic approaches for strengthening thematic networks and contribute to internal resource‑mobilisation strategies.
• Update the Carpathian Convention website, platforms, and databases, and guide communication and dissemination activities.

Required profile

• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in environmental science, biodiversity, ecology, or a related field.
• Proven experience in biodiversity conservation projects, preferably involving large carnivores and ecological connectivity.
• Familiarity with the Carpathian region, its conventions, and multi‑stakeholder coordination.
• Demonstrated ability to produce high‑quality technical documents, policy notes, and briefing materials.
• Experience organizing international meetings, workshops, or conferences.
• Knowledge of UNEP, EU, and global environmental frameworks.

Required skills