PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER (PUBLICATIONS EDITOR) – Nairobi, Kenya

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER (PUBLICATIONS EDITOR) – Nairobi, Kenya

Job Opening

• Job Title: Public Information Officer (Publications Editor)
• Job Opening ID: 239707
• Job Network: Public Information and Conference Management
• Job Family: Public Information
• Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
• Department/Office: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
• Category and Level: Professional and Higher Categories, P-4
• Date Posted: August 14, 2024
• Application Deadline: September 28, 2024

About UNEP

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the world’s leading environmental authority that champions global environmental advocacy. UNEP sets the global environmental agenda and ensures the seamless implementation of sustainable development. It serves as a staunch advocate for the global environment, working with key stakeholders and partners. This position is located in UNEP’s Communication Division at the Nairobi duty station.

Job Summary

The Public Information Officer (Publications Editor) will play a pivotal role in UNEP’s global communication efforts by overseeing and coordinating content production and editing for scientific publications. The officer will manage the production process from concept to final product, ensuring all materials adhere to UNEP’s guidelines and house style. This role is crucial for maintaining UNEP’s reputation for delivering high-quality, science-backed information on environmental issues.

Key Responsibilities

1. Content Production and Editing
   • Edit publications following UNEP’s editorial standards, ensuring clarity, coherence, and accuracy.
   • Perform structural and copy-editing to align with UNEP’s house style and guidelines.
   • Manage vocabulary lists, taxonomies, and peer-reviewed science content to support UNEP’s knowledge management activities.
   • Write and edit complex scientific material for reports, publications, and issue briefs.
   • Review launch assets for reports, including key messages, copy for social media, video scripts, stories, and press releases.
2. Coordination of Publications Editing
   • Plan and manage the daily workflow of the science editing team to ensure efficient coordination.
   • Collaborate with other divisions to streamline the editing process, ensuring roles and responsibilities are clear across teams.
   • Provide editing guidance and updates to UNEP staff to ensure that all publications meet UNEP’s high standards.
3. Team Supervision
   • Supervise the publications unit, including recruitment and management of science editors.
   • Foster a collaborative and creative work environment that encourages innovation.
   • Manage the unit’s financial resources, ensuring alignment with UNEP’s financial policies.
   • Increase awareness across UNEP of the availability and importance of editing services.
4. Capacity Building
   • Evaluate the impact of UNEP publications and analyze trends and feedback.
   • Build networks and plan outreach activities to enhance understanding of the editing process across UNEP.
   • Develop and implement capacity-building programs for science editors, including training and the development of guidelines.
5. Data Analysis and Reporting
   • Collect and analyze data to identify trends or patterns in UNEP publications.
   • Provide insights through data visualization, using graphs, charts, and reports to support data-driven decision-making.

Competencies

1. Professionalism
   • Strong skills in writing and editing complex, scientific-technical reports and publications.
   • Proven ability to research and analyze environmental issues, and interpret data for decision-making.
   • Ability to manage projects, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively across teams.
   • Commitment to gender equality and integrating gender perspectives in all work areas.
2. Communication
   • Excellent ability to speak and write clearly and effectively.
   • Tailor communication to different audiences and ensure openness in sharing information.
   • Foster two-way communication to engage effectively with team members.
3. Planning and Organizing
   • Set clear, strategic goals and effectively allocate time and resources to meet those goals.
   • Proactively plan for contingencies and ensure progress is monitored and adjusted as needed.
   • Prioritize tasks to ensure efficient time management.
4. Leadership
   • Empower others to translate vision into results and take the lead in driving positive change.
   • Maintain strong relationships across a broad network to achieve organizational goals.
   • Promote a collaborative work culture and actively engage in resolving conflicts.

Qualifications and Skills

1. Education
   • Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in science editing or related field.
   • A first-level university degree with two (2) additional years of qualifying experience may substitute for an advanced degree.
   • Completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.
2. Experience
   • A minimum of seven (7) years of experience in editing scientific publications or similar content is required.
   • Experience managing editors and working in international settings is desirable.
   • Two (2) or more years of data analytics experience is an added advantage.
3. Languages
   • Fluency in English is required (spoken, written, and comprehension).
   • Knowledge of another UN language is desirable.

Work Environment

The position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, at the UNEP office, which offers a dynamic international work environment. Staff members are encouraged to contribute to UNEP’s mission of environmental advocacy while building strong, collaborative relationships with colleagues from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds.

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the official United Nations Careers Portal by following the instructions in the job listing. Candidates must complete all fields, ensuring their professional experience and contact details are up to date.

Special Notice

• This position is for an initial period of one year and may be extended.
• UNEP is committed to achieving a 50/50 gender balance and geographical diversity in its staffing.
• Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Successful applicants may be placed on a pre-approved roster for future job openings.
• The United Nations does not charge any fees during any stage of the recruitment process.

Call to Action

Are you passionate about environmental sustainability and public information? Do you have a proven track record in editing scientific publications? Join UNEP and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future! Apply today to be part of a global team that is making a positive impact on the planet.

Apply Now: UN Careers Portal

Why Join UNEP?

1. Global Impact: As part of UNEP, you will contribute to critical global initiatives addressing climate change, biodiversity conservation, and the promotion of sustainable development.
2. Professional Growth: UNEP offers opportunities for career advancement, professional development, and access to global networks of experts in the field of environmental sustainability.
3. Diversity and Inclusion: The United Nations is committed to promoting gender equality and cultural diversity. UNEP welcomes candidates from all backgrounds and is dedicated to creating an inclusive work environment.

TELEGRAM CHANNEL

Additional Information

• Salary: Competitive salary, subject to UN regulations and local allowances.
• Location: This is an onsite position based in Nairobi, Kenya.
• Duration: One year with the possibility of extension based on performance.

Apply Now and make a difference in the world! If you’re ready to embark on a career that protects our planet and engages in meaningful work, UNEP is the place for you.