A high-impact professional opportunity at the heart of global environmental policy is now open! The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking a Programme Management Officer (P-3) to join its Economics of Nature Unit in Nairobi, Kenya. This pivotal role focuses on applying economic analysis to transform global food systems and conserve biodiversity. If you are an environmental economist or programme management professional with a passion for sustainability, this is your chance to contribute to the UN’s vital work. The application deadline is January 31, 2026.
UNEP Programme Management Officer (P-3) – Key Details
Here’s a quick overview of this prestigious international position:
- Position: Programme Management Officer
- Level: P-3 (International Professional)
- Organization: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- Division/Unit: Ecosystems Division / Economics of Nature Unit
- Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
- Focus Area: Environmental Economics & Sustainable Food Systems
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
About the Role at UNEP
This position sits within UNEP’s Economics of Nature Unit, which is dedicated to making the economic case for protecting ecosystems and biodiversity. As a Programme Management Officer, you will play a central role in advancing projects like “True Value Accounting: Making the Economic Case for Food Systems Transformation,” using frameworks such as TEEBAgriFood (The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity for Agriculture and Food).
You will be at the intersection of science, economics, and policy, working to provide governments and stakeholders with the evidence needed to shift towards sustainable practices. This is a hands-on role involving project management, stakeholder coordination, policy analysis, and field missions.
Key Responsibilities & Impact
The successful candidate will be responsible for a diverse portfolio, including:
- Project Management: Implement, monitor, and evaluate projects on sustainable agri-food systems in countries like India and Kenya.
- Policy & Technical Guidance: Provide expert advice to governments, research institutes, and partners on applying environmental economic valuation.
- Analysis & Reporting: Prepare high-quality policy briefs, analytical reports, and background papers to inform decision-making.
- Stakeholder Coordination: Facilitate collaboration among a global network of partners, including steering committees and national institutions.
- Capacity Building: Conduct training workshops and outreach on ecosystem valuation, spatial modelling, and the TEEB approach.
- Strategic Planning: Develop work plans and roadmaps for mainstreaming economics into biodiversity and food policy.
Eligibility & Required Qualifications
This is a specialized role requiring a strong academic and professional background. Candidates must meet the following criteria:
Education:
- An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Economics, Environmental/Ecological Economics, Resource/Agricultural Economics, or a closely related field.
- A first-level degree with additional experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.
- Asset: Training or certification in data analytics, business analytics, or data science.
Professional Experience:
- A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in programme/project management, specifically related to environmental economic valuation.
- At least 2 years of hands-on experience using GIS and spatial modelling tools for ecosystem services.
- At least 4 years of experience working on agri-food or food systems-related projects.
- Highly Desirable: Previous experience within the UN system or a comparable international organization.
Required Competencies
UNEP seeks candidates who demonstrate:
- Professionalism: Expertise in environmental economics and policy analysis, with sound judgment and attention to detail.
- Teamwork: Proven ability to collaborate effectively in a multicultural, international environment.
- Planning & Organizing: Strong skills in managing resources, timelines, and complex projects.
How to Apply for this UNEP Position (Step-by-Step)
All applications must be submitted through the official UN careers portal:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to the UN Careers (Inspira) website.
- Search for the Job Opening: Use the job code or search for “Programme Management Officer, P-3” with UNEP in Nairobi.
- Create/Update Your Inspira Profile: Ensure your personal history form (PHF) is complete and up-to-date.
- Prepare Your Application: Tailor your cover letter and CV to highlight your experience in environmental economics, food systems, GIS, and project management as it relates to the specific responsibilities listed.
- Submit Before the Deadline: Complete and submit your application well before the portal closes.
🔥 Pro Tip: UN applications are highly competitive. Your personal history profile and cover letter must explicitly and quantifiably demonstrate how you meet each required qualification and experience criterion. Use keywords from the vacancy announcement.
Application Deadline
The closing date for applications is strict:
📅 January 31, 2026.
Official Website & Application Portal
To review the full job description, requirements, and to apply, you must visit the UN’s official careers platform.
👉 CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE UN CAREERS (INSPIRA) PORTAL AND APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What does the P-3 level mean?
A: P-3 denotes an International Professional level within the UN system, typically requiring a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience, as this position does.
Q2: Is the position fully funded/What is the salary?
A: This is a staff position with a competitive UN salary and benefits package, not a fellowship or grant. The remuneration for P-3 level includes a base salary, post adjustment for Nairobi, and benefits such as rental subsidy, dependency allowances, health insurance, and pension plan.
Q3: Is fluency in English required?
A: Yes. Fluency in English (both oral and written) is a standard requirement for most UN professional positions. Knowledge of another UN official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is often an advantage.
Q4: I have 5 years of general project management experience, but not specifically in environmental valuation. Can I apply?
A: The requirement is for 5 years specifically in programme/project management related to environmental economic valuation. General project management experience is unlikely to meet the specialized bar unless directly applicable.
Q5: What is the selection process?
A: The process typically involves an initial screening of applications against the criteria, followed by a substantive technical evaluation and a competency-based interview for shortlisted candidates. The entire process can take several months.
Need Help? Preparing your UN application or tailoring your cover letter? Share your questions in the comments below!
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