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Join UNESCO as an Associate Project Officer (P-2) – Ocean Conservation and Climate Resilience (Paris, France)

3 weeks ago

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Climate change adaptation and resilience

Join UNESCO as an Associate Project Officer (P-2) – Ocean Conservation and Climate Resilience

3 minutes read

Are you passionate about protecting our oceans and advancing climate resilience? The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is recruiting for the position of Associate Project Officer (P-2) within its Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC). Based in Paris, France, this is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of global ocean science and policy.

Post Details

Title: Associate Project Officer
Grade: P-2 (Professional Level)
Contract Type: Project Appointment (1 year, renewable based on performance and funding)
Duty Station: Paris, France
Application Deadline: 27 June 2025 (Midnight, Paris Time)
Annual Salary: Approx. $85,557 USD, plus UN benefits

About UNESCO and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)

UNESCO’s IOC unites 150 member states to coordinate international efforts in marine science, ocean literacy, capacity development, and climate action. As the UN’s lead agency for ocean science, IOC also coordinates the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030), aiming to reverse ocean health decline and support sustainable ocean governance.

The Marine Policy and Regional Coordination Section within IOC promotes sustainable ocean planning and conservation, including marine protected areas (MPAs) and climate vulnerability assessments. The selected Associate Project Officer will support scientific collaboration, knowledge dissemination, and innovative ocean governance.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Knowledge Sharing

Conduct desk research on best practices in rapid climate vulnerability assessments.
Synthesize innovations in ocean climate resilience, including indigenous knowledge.

Coordination & Stakeholder Engagement

Organize international meetings of ocean scientists, indigenous knowledge holders, and MPA managers.
Maintain a database of MPA contacts and key decision-makers.

Tools & Guidance Development

Help develop a practical guide for local authorities and UNESCO marine areas on climate vulnerability assessments.
Support pilot projects and identify resilience measures.

Communication & Dissemination

Contribute to an online platform for the guidance tools.
Assist with a communications strategy for promoting project results during the UN Ocean Decade.

Required Qualifications

Education

Master’s degree or equivalent in Environmental Science, Climate Studies, Ocean Conservation, or a related field.

Experience
Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in:

Ocean conservation
Marine protected area management
Climate change adaptation and resilience
Documenting innovative ocean science or climate vulnerability methods

Skills

Familiarity with the UN system (IOC/World Heritage Convention preferred)
Strong analytical, organizational, and digital skills
Ability to meet deadlines and perform under pressure
Effective team collaboration, especially in multicultural settings

🌍 Languages

Fluency in English (required)
Knowledge of French or another UN language is highly desirable

Benefits and Entitlements

Annual salary starting at ~$85,557 USD
30 days of annual leave
Family allowance
Medical and dental insurance
UN pension plan
Professional development opportunities

For full details, consult the official UNESCO Guide to Staff Benefits.

Application Process

Deadline to apply: 27 June 2025 (Midnight Paris Time)
Eligibility: Open to candidates worldwide

Steps:

Visit the official UNESCO Careers Portal.
Complete the online application.
Upload your CV, cover letter, and supporting documents.

Note: Applications cannot be edited after submission. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Diversity & Inclusion at UNESCO

UNESCO is committed to:

Zero-tolerance for discrimination and harassment
Gender parity and geographical balance
Encouraging candidates from underrepresented Member States
Welcoming indigenous peoples, minorities, and persons with disabilities

Why This Role Matters

Oceans cover over 70% of Earth and are vital to climate stability, food security, and biodiversity. This role allows you to support global marine conservation, drive climate resilience, and contribute to sustainable ocean governance at the international level.

If you seek a career blending science, policy, sustainability, and global cooperation—this is your chance to make a difference.