Opportunity

The Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) is a collaborative system implemented through observing networks, regional alliances and national activities, aimed at delivering data and information for climate, operational ocean services, and ocean health. The Intergovernmental Oceanographic , Commission (IOC) of UNESCO is the lead agency for GOOS, and we seek a scientific officer with expert and project management experience to contribute to GOOS.

As Programme Specialist, you will join the IOC/UNESCO secretariat operating under the guidance from its 150 Member States and from the ocean observing scientific community. You will manage, advise and report on programme design, guidelines, resources and progress. You will advocate for organizational involvement and participation in ocean observation and services activities and fundraise for projects, supporting GOOS under supervision of the Head of Ocean Observing and Services Section of the IOC.

This is a unique opportunity for a motivated and experienced individual who wishes to further develop their career in programme management related to ocean sciences and regional coordination.

Responsibilities:

More specifically, you will be expected to perform the following duties:

• Take responsibility for delivery of work plans for the GOOS Regional Alliances (GRAs); provide analytical input and develop and track activities and outputs; organize the annual GRA council meetings and bi-annual GRA forum; engage to further develop the GRAs particularly in the Pacific, Caribbean, Africa, and Arctic regions; fundraise, and manage and target budget, to have maximum and reportable impact.
• Manage work plans, governance and activities of the Expert Team on Operational Ocean Forecasting Systems (ETOOFS); provide scientific expertise and input to the development of relevant documents and content updates.
• Coordinate with and expand expert networks and stakeholder engagement, including with the World Meteorological Organisation and other intergovernmental organizations and relevant Ocean Decade initiatives.
• Develop and coordinate activities with National Focal Points; initiate technical advice and assistance to support collaborative work and recommend programme and project approaches to strengthen engagement.
• Deliver organizational, management and coordination support to the GOOS Office, including for the GOOS Steering Committee and the GOOS Executive meetings and other relevant activities and events.
• Further resource mobilization and develop alternative funding mechanisms for GOOS projects and developing concepts and project proposals for targeted systems development.

Qualifications:

Education

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in the field of marine science.
• A PhD in the field of marine science would be an asset.

Experience

• At least 4 years of relevant professional experience in marine science or related field, of which preferably two (2) years acquired at international level.
• Professional experience of project management, or other relevant management and coordination experience.

Technical Knowledge

• Experience in oceanography, and specifically in the field of ocean observing , forecasting and services.
• Relevant scientific publications related oceanography.

Skills and Competencies

• Experience with project management, and in evolving flexible planning for complex and changing environments.
• Demonstrated strategic and goal orientated approach, with knowledge of management by objectives.
• Good conceptual, analytical, research and organizational skills and excellent drafting skills, with the ability to produce accessible reports and papers on scientific, technical, and strategic issues.
• Good negotiating, communication and advocacy skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to work in a multicultural environment and foster team cooperation.

Languages

• Excellent knowledge of English.
• Knowledge of French and/or the other UNESCO official languages (Arabic, Chinese, Russian or Spanish) is an asset.

Apply online.