Organization: UNEP - United Nations Environment Programme
Location: Nairobi
Level: National
Education Level: No need for Higher Education
Languages: Speaks English, French
Application deadline: March 13, 2026
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. This position is located in UNEP's Office of Science, which is responsible for analyzing the state of the global environment, providing scientific advice and evidence, data analytics, statistics, and intelligence to catalyze and promote international cooperation and action on the environment. This post is located in the Strategy and Operations Section (SSOS) of the Office of Science of UNEP in Nairobi, Kenya. Under the direct supervision of the Head, Strategy and Operations Section (SSOS), the incumbent will perform the following duties:
Responsibilities
a) UNEP Focal point for review/quality assurance/validation of maps and all-geospatial related products.
- Serves – in full autonomy – as the UNEP focal point for validation/quality assurance/quality control of all geospatial-related products on publications, presentations, and electronic platforms, conducting map clearances in order to ensure adherence with United Nations mapping rules and guidelines.
- Reviews/validates and clears all maps /country names prior to the issuance and publication of any map in publications, presentations, including dissemination via electronic means for the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) to ensure adherence with the UN mapping rules and guidelines.
- Maintaining up-to-date geospatial United Nations-approved basemap data sets content, which forms a base for mapping in the organization.
b) Geospatial Data and Information Management
- Conduct geospatial data management, analysis, and visualization using Geospatial technologies to provide early warning information as a basis for environmental decision-making.
- Identify/collate/compile relevant data on specific environmental themes using geospatial technologies from existing sources to identify trends or patterns.
- Create operational dashboards and story maps for interactive data visualization and sharing.
- Perform GIS processing on UNEP projects.
- Provide Geospatial training and guidance to new/junior staff as well as other UNEP staff.
- Provide inputs for the implementation of the One UN Geospatial Situation Room that includes the development of interactive online web mapping services.
c) Administrative Tasks
- Drafts and prepares correspondence and communication materials that include a wide range of documents/reports, debriefings, and memos related to all aspects of geospatial data and information.
- Lead recruitment/hiring of United Nations Volunteers (UNVs), consultants, and interns by developing the terms of reference, conducting interviews, and writing interview reports in the unit.
- Supervising the day-to-day activities of United Nations Volunteers (UNVs) and Interns that involve providing guidance and training.
- Assists with the collection and analysis of data as well as the preparation of data presentations and reports for information sharing, responding to queries, knowledge management, planning, and decision making.
- Assists with visualizations and updating information material, such as web pages or brochures.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Competencies
PROFESSIONALISM:
Technical qualifications and knowledge in geo-database management and knowledge in remote sensing, geography, and its related areas; ability to organize and manage geospatial data from various sources; Proven expertise in geospatial matters, including mapping, cartography, and online mapping visualization techniques. Ability to perform analysis, modelling, and interpretation of data in support of decision-making. 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. Commitment to implementing the goal of gender equality by ensuring the equal participation and full involvement of women and men in all aspects 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.
ACCOUNTABILITY:
Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable.
Education
A High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Job - Specific Qualification
Relevant training in GIS Systems Administration is desirable.
Work Experience
- A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in geospatial information, analysis, mapping, data visualization, information management, or related areas is required.
- The minimum years of relevant experience is reduced by two years for candidates who possess a first level University degree.
- Experience with database programming languages (Python, SQL) and/or web GIS platforms is required
- Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS), remote sensing tools, and spatial databases is required.
- Experience in data modeling and database management is desirable.
- One (1) year or more of experience in data analytics or a related area is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required.
The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework.
Don't miss out on these exciting opportunities! To stay updated on the latest job openings:
- Follow Job Base (Kenya) on LinkedIn
- Join the conversation on Twitter
- Like our Facebook page
- Check out our inspiring stories on Instagram
- Subscribe to our WhatsApp Channel for real-time updates
By following Job Base (Kenya) on these platforms, you'll not only stay informed about job opportunities but also be part of a community that's passionate about entrepreneurship and social impact.