Apply for the UNESCO Associate Programme Officer (Sciences) job in Dakar, Senegal. Work on climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, and sustainable development. Applications close 13 July 2026.
UNESCO Programme Officer Job 2026
Are you passionate about climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, environmental science, and sustainable development? The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is inviting applications for an Associate Programme Officer – Sciences based in Dakar, Senegal.
This international opportunity allows environmental professionals to contribute to UNESCO’s Natural Sciences programme across 15 West African countries, supporting initiatives in ecosystem management, climate adaptation, water security, disaster risk reduction, and biodiversity conservation.
If you have experience in environmental sciences, natural resource management, ecology, or climate policy, this could be an excellent opportunity to build your career within the United Nations system.
📅 Application Deadline: 13 July 2026
About UNESCO
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) promotes international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication to build peace and sustainable development worldwide.
Within its Natural Sciences Sector, UNESCO supports countries in addressing global environmental challenges through scientific research, innovation, policy development, and regional cooperation.
The Dakar Regional Office coordinates natural sciences programmes across West Africa, helping strengthen environmental governance and resilience in the face of climate change.
Position Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Associate Programme Officer – Sciences |
| Organisation | UNESCO |
| Grade | SC-8 |
| Duty Station | Dakar, Senegal |
| Contract Type | Service Contract |
| Contract Duration | 12 Months |
| Work Arrangement | On-site |
| Application Deadline | 13 July 2026 |
What You’ll Do
Working under UNESCO’s Natural Sciences Sector, you will support the planning, coordination, implementation, and monitoring of environmental programmes across West Africa.
Your work will contribute directly to regional efforts aimed at protecting ecosystems, strengthening climate resilience, and promoting sustainable natural resource management.
Key Responsibilities
Programme Management
You will:
- Support biodiversity conservation programmes
- Assist with ecosystem management initiatives
- Contribute to climate resilience projects
- Support the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme
- Assist Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) activities
- Support water sciences and disaster risk reduction initiatives
- Monitor project implementation
- Prepare technical reports
Partnership Development
The successful candidate will work closely with:
- National governments
- UNESCO National Commissions
- United Nations agencies
- Universities
- Research institutions
- Civil society organisations
- Development partners
- Private sector stakeholders
Building strong partnerships will be central to delivering UNESCO’s regional environmental programmes.
Resource Mobilisation
Responsibilities include:
- Developing project proposals
- Supporting fundraising initiatives
- Identifying new funding opportunities
- Preparing concept notes
- Building partnerships with international donors
Project Coordination
You will also:
- Coordinate project implementation
- Monitor deliverables and timelines
- Organise field missions
- Support monitoring and evaluation activities
- Prepare progress reports
- Promote project visibility through communication activities
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for professionals working in:
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
- Climate Change
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Natural Resource Management
- Environmental Engineering
- Sustainable Development
- International Development
- Water Resource Management
- Disaster Risk Reduction
Required Qualifications
Applicants should possess:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in:
- Environmental Science
- Natural Sciences
- Ecology
- Environmental Engineering
- Natural Resource Management
- Or a closely related discipline
Professional Experience
Candidates should preferably have:
- At least two years of relevant professional experience
- Experience in environmental programmes
- Biodiversity conservation experience
- Ecosystem management experience
- Natural resource management experience
Experience in the following areas is considered an advantage:
- Climate adaptation
- Climate resilience
- Water resource management
- Ecological research
- Environmental education
- Disaster risk reduction
- Vulnerability assessments
Skills UNESCO Is Looking For
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Excellent communication skills
- Planning and organisation
- Teamwork
- Accountability
- Innovation
- Professional integrity
- Respect for diversity
- Strong stakeholder engagement
- Project management skills
Why Work at UNESCO?
Joining UNESCO offers the opportunity to:
- Contribute to climate resilience across West Africa
- Support biodiversity conservation programmes
- Work with international experts
- Build partnerships across governments and research institutions
- Strengthen science-based environmental policies
- Gain valuable United Nations experience
- Advance your international development career
Recruitment Process
UNESCO’s recruitment process may include:
- Online application review
- Written assessment
- Video interview
- Panel interview
- Reference checks
Applicants should ensure that all information submitted through the UNESCO Careers portal is complete and accurate.
Why FlexJobSpace Recommends This Opportunity
The UNESCO Associate Programme Officer – Sciences position is an outstanding opportunity for environmental professionals looking to build an international career while contributing to climate resilience and sustainable development.
With responsibilities spanning biodiversity conservation, ecosystem management, water security, and regional scientific cooperation, this role offers meaningful work with one of the world’s leading United Nations agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the position based?
The role is based in Dakar, Senegal.
Who can apply?
Professionals with a master’s degree in environmental sciences, ecology, natural resource management, environmental engineering, or related fields.
What is the application deadline?
13 July 2026.
Is this a United Nations position?
Yes. The position is with UNESCO, one of the specialized agencies of the United Nations.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the official UNESCO Careers portal before 13 July 2026.
Before applying, prepare:
- Updated CV or Resume
- Academic qualifications
- Employment history
- Supporting documents
Official Application: https://careers.unesco.org/job/Dakar-Associate-Programme-Officer-Sciences/1365368357/
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Final Thoughts
The UNESCO Programme Officer Job 2026 offers a unique opportunity to contribute to climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem management across West Africa. If you are passionate about using science to address environmental challenges and want to work within the United Nations system, this role provides an excellent platform for professional growth and meaningful global impact. Apply before 13 July 2026 to be considered.
