The UNFCCC Programme Officer (P-4) to lead the United Arab Emirates Just Transition Work Programme (JTWP). Based in Bonn, Germany, this one-year renewable position offers an annual salary of USD 84,672 plus benefits. Learn about the role, qualifications, salary, and how to apply before 9 November 2025.
About the Role
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is inviting qualified professionals to apply for the Programme Officer (P-4) position within its Programmes Coordination Department. The selected officer will provide strategic leadership and coordination for the United Arab Emirates Just Transition Work Programme (UAE JTWP)—a key initiative designed to promote equitable, inclusive, and sustainable transitions toward low-carbon economies worldwide.
This position is based at the UNFCCC Secretariat in Bonn, Germany, with an initial appointment of one year, renewable depending on performance and funding availability.
About the UNFCCC Secretariat
The UNFCCC Secretariat plays a central role in driving global climate policy. It supports the implementation of the Paris Agreement, the Kyoto Protocol, and the Convention on Climate Change by coordinating negotiations, delivering technical assistance, and supporting Parties in achieving their climate goals.
The Programmes Coordination Department provides strategic guidance and ensures coherence among the Secretariat’s four key divisions:
- Adaptation
- Means of Implementation
- Mitigation
- Transparency
Together, these divisions form the operational core that helps nations deliver on climate commitments and build resilience to climate impacts.
Position Summary
Under the supervision of the Manager for Programmes Coordination (P-5), the Programme Officer (P-4) will lead a small team tasked with implementing the UAE Just Transition Work Programme. This includes managing intergovernmental dialogues, coordinating negotiations, and ensuring coherence between just transition principles and the broader climate policy agenda.
The role combines strategic planning, inter-agency coordination, policy development, and stakeholder engagement at the highest international levels.
Key Responsibilities for UNFCCC Programme Officer
1. Lead the UAE Just Transition Work Programme
- Organize and deliver inter-sessional and in-session events, including:
- Two annual Just Transition dialogues.
- The annual High-Level Ministerial Roundtable on Just Transition.
- Liaise with Chairs of the Subsidiary Bodies (SBI and SBSTA) to design event topics and agendas.
- Review submissions from Parties and stakeholders to shape dialogue content.
- Draft official reports and analytical summaries of discussions.
- Build and maintain trust-based relationships with government and non-state actors.
2. Support Intergovernmental Negotiations
- Coordinate preparation for intergovernmental discussions under the Subsidiary Bodies and Conference of the Parties serving as the Meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement (CMA).
- Draft negotiation texts, briefing papers, and technical notes.
- Provide strategic advice to Presiding Officers and facilitate coherence across thematic areas.
3. Drive Just Transition Coordination Across the Secretariat
- Lead cross-divisional collaboration to integrate just transition priorities into adaptation, mitigation, and finance programmes.
- Chair the internal JTWP Task Team to ensure coherence of activities.
- Offer strategic and analytical input on just transition policy linkages.
4. Represent the UNFCCC in External Engagements
- Build partnerships with UN agencies, intergovernmental organizations, and civil society.
- Represent the Secretariat at conferences, workshops, and consultations.
- Promote inclusive dialogue on climate justice and sustainable livelihoods.
5. Other Duties
- Support the Programmes Coordination Department in achieving its strategic objectives.
- Contribute to Secretariat-wide initiatives on policy integration and programmatic alignment.
Qualifications and Experience
Education
- Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in law, economics, social sciences, environmental policy, natural sciences, or development studies.
- A first-level degree (Bachelor’s) plus two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a Master’s degree.
Professional Experience
- At least seven years of progressively responsible experience in climate policy, sustainable development, or environmental governance.
- Minimum two years of international experience related to climate change policy or intergovernmental negotiations.
- Experience working with or within UN processes is highly desirable.
Language Proficiency
- Fluency in English (spoken and written) is required.
- Knowledge of another UN official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is an advantage.
Core Competencies
Technical and Professional Skills
- In-depth knowledge of climate change frameworks and UNFCCC processes.
- Excellent analytical, drafting, and coordination abilities.
- Ability to synthesize complex policy information clearly.
Leadership and Management
- Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
- Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.
- Effective delegation, mentorship, and performance management.
Communication and Negotiation
- Strong verbal and written communication skills across technical and non-technical audiences.
- Skilled negotiator able to navigate complex political environments.
Result Orientation
- Focused on delivering high-quality outcomes under tight deadlines.
- Demonstrated ability to plan strategically and manage multiple priorities.
Contract Details
Contract Type: Fixed-term appointment (1 year, renewable).
Duty Station: Bonn, Germany.
Annual Salary: USD 84,672 (net)
Post Adjustment: Currently 39% of base salary (subject to change).
Additional Benefits Include:
- Pension and health insurance (UNJSPF and UNSMIS)
- 30 days annual leave
- Family, education, and relocation allowances (if eligible)
- Professional training and career development opportunities
Full employment details: UNFCCC Employment Conditions
Application and Selection Process
How to Apply
- Applications must be submitted online via the official UNFCCC recruitment portal:
https://unfccc.int/secretariat/employment/recruitment
Deadline
- 9 November 2025 at 23:59 (CET)
Selection Stages
- Application Review – Screening for relevant education and experience.
- Written Assessment – Evaluates analytical and drafting skills.
- Competency-Based Interview – Focused on leadership, judgement, and strategic delivery.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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Diversity and Inclusion
The UNFCCC values diversity, gender parity, and inclusivity. Applications are strongly encouraged from:
- Women and underrepresented nationalities
- Persons with disabilities
- Professionals from developing countries
The Secretariat fosters a respectful, inclusive workplace free from discrimination.
Why This Role Matters
The Just Transition Work Programme under the Paris Agreement is a groundbreaking effort to ensure that the global shift to sustainable economies leaves no one behind. As Programme Officer, you will play a central role in shaping how countries implement fair, inclusive, and economically viable transitions to net-zero — balancing climate ambition with social equity.
This is an opportunity to influence policy, lead negotiations, and strengthen global collaboration on climate justice at the highest levels of international governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Just Transition Work Programme (JTWP)?
The UAE JTWP is a global initiative under the UNFCCC that ensures climate action integrates fairness, inclusion, and sustainable economic transformation.
2. What is the salary range?
The post offers a net salary of USD 84,672 plus post adjustment (~39%), bringing total compensation to roughly USD 117,000 annually, depending on family status and location.
3. Is relocation required?
Yes, the position is based in Bonn, Germany, where the UNFCCC Secretariat is located.
4. Who can apply?
Professionals with advanced degrees and significant experience in climate, environment, or policy-related fields. There are no nationality restrictions.
5. What is the contract duration?
The appointment is for one year, with a possibility of extension based on performance and funding.
6. When will interviews take place?
Shortlisted candidates can expect interviews between late November and early December 2025.
Conclusion
This UNFCCC Programme Officer (P-4) position is a rare opportunity to lead transformative work on climate justice and sustainable transitions. The role combines negotiation strategy, policy leadership, and coordination at the heart of the UN’s climate mission.
If you have the expertise and vision to shape global just transition frameworks, apply now through the UNFCCC career portal before 9 November 2025.
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