The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is inviting applications for the position of Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist. This vital role will support UNEP’s mission to lead global efforts in addressing environmental challenges through evidence-based action, continuous learning, and improved accountability. The specialist will work at the heart of UNEP’s strategic operations, ensuring that its projects and initiatives deliver measurable impact and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Role Overview
The Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Specialist will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing UNEP’s monitoring and evaluation systems to enhance program effectiveness across global regions. The incumbent will establish innovative methods for tracking performance, analysing results, and generating insights that inform decision-making and future planning. This position requires a results-oriented professional with strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of evaluation methodologies, and a passion for driving environmental progress through data-driven learning.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and operationalize comprehensive MEL frameworks and systems that align with UNEP’s strategic goals and global environmental priorities.
- Oversee data collection, management, and reporting processes to ensure accuracy, transparency, and accountability in measuring programme results.
- Conduct in-depth evaluations of ongoing and completed projects to assess impact, identify lessons learned, and recommend improvements for future interventions.
- Collaborate closely with country and regional offices, implementing partners, and other UN agencies to harmonize monitoring and evaluation approaches.
- Lead training and capacity-building sessions to strengthen UNEP staff and partners’ understanding of MEL concepts, methodologies, and tools.
- Prepare high-quality analytical reports and policy briefs that communicate findings clearly to internal stakeholders, donors, and international partners.
- Promote a culture of learning and knowledge sharing within UNEP, encouraging adaptive management and continuous improvement across programmes.
- Ensure that all monitoring and evaluation activities integrate gender equality, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability principles.
Qualifications and Experience
- A postgraduate degree in environmental science, development studies, statistics, economics, or a closely related discipline.
- A minimum of seven to ten years of relevant professional experience in monitoring, evaluation, and learning, preferably within international development, environmental projects, or multilateral institutions.
- Proven expertise in results-based management, impact assessment, and data analysis for large-scale programs.
- Demonstrated ability to design and implement MEL frameworks, tools, and indicators tailored to complex multi-stakeholder environments.
- Strong communication, writing, and presentation skills, with the ability to distil complex findings into practical recommendations.
- Excellent interpersonal and teamwork abilities, with experience working in multicultural settings.
- Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of additional United Nations languages is an advantage.
Competencies
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to interpret data and translate insights into actionable recommendations.
- Strategic Planning: Capacity to link MEL results to organizational objectives and global frameworks such as the SDGs.
- Innovation: Willingness to adopt new evaluation methodologies and technologies to improve data accuracy and accessibility.
- Collaboration: Skilled in fostering partnerships with governments, NGOs, and research institutions to enhance collective learning.
Why This Role Matters
This position offers a unique opportunity to influence how UNEP measures and amplifies its impact in addressing urgent environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The MEL Specialist will play a critical role in ensuring that UNEP’s programmes are efficient, accountable, and continuously improving through systematic learning. By advancing evidence, based decision-making, the role strengthens UNEP’s capacity to deliver tangible results for people and the planet.
In joining UNEP, the successful candidate becomes part of a global movement dedicated to creating a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive world. This position is ideal for professionals who are passionate about using data and evaluation to drive meaningful environmental change and global development outcomes.
