Associate Project Officer (P-2) – Ocean Conservation | Apply by June 27

Are you passionate about safeguarding our oceans and building climate resilience? Do you have a strong background in marine science, environmental policy, or sustainable development?

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is looking for a motivated and mission-driven Associate Project Officer (P-2) to join the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC). This is a rare opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge global efforts addressing ocean governance, marine ecosystem protection, and sustainable climate solutions.

🌍 About the Role

As an Associate Project Officer within UNESCO’s IOC, you’ll support international initiatives that drive ocean conservation and climate action. You’ll work at the intersection of science and policy — coordinating key projects, engaging with international stakeholders, and supporting data-driven approaches to marine ecosystem protection.

This role is ideal for professionals who want to apply their expertise on a global platform, influence high-level environmental decisions, and promote sustainability across the world’s oceans.

🌐 Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the implementation of global ocean governance programs led by the IOC.

• Support data analysis and policy alignment for marine biodiversity and climate resilience efforts.

• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports, research briefs, project plans, and strategic communication materials.

• Liaise with partners across UN agencies, national governments, NGOs, and scientific institutions.

• Promote the use of oceanographic data in developing regional and international strategies for sustainability.

Associate Project Officer (P-2) – Ocean Conservation | Apply by June 27

🧭 Why This Position Matters

The world’s oceans are facing unprecedented threats from climate change, pollution, and unsustainable development. This role gives you a platform to help shape global responses to marine crises, while supporting UNESCO’s mission to foster international collaboration in science, education, and culture.

Your work will directly contribute to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water, and you’ll help protect vital marine resources for future generations.

✅ Candidate Requirements

To qualify for this opportunity, you should have:

• A Master’s degree or equivalent in marine science, oceanography, environmental policy, or a related field

• Minimum 2–4 years of professional experience in project coordination, international program management, or marine policy

• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills

• Familiarity with UN systems or international environmental frameworks is a strong advantage

• Fluency in English (working knowledge of French is highly desirable)

🌟 Benefits of Working with UNESCO

• Competitive UN salary ($85,557 annually) + full UN benefits package

• Access to global professional networks in science, policy, and international development

• Work in Paris, one of the world’s leading cultural and diplomatic hubs

• Collaborate with passionate experts committed to sustainability and equity

• Contribute to high-impact environmental projects with real global influence

📌 Application Details

• Position: Associate Project Officer (P-2)

• Department: Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC)

• Contract Type: Fixed-Term (1 year)

• Salary: ~$85,557 USD per year + benefits

• Application Deadline: June 27, 2025 (Midnight Paris time)

🔗 Apply Now: Application

FAQs

1. What is the role of the Associate Project Officer (P-2) at UNESCO?
This role supports the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) by assisting with program coordination, ocean policy development, and sustainability projects. You’ll help advance global ocean governance and marine conservation efforts.

2. Where is the duty station for this position?
The duty station is Paris, France, at UNESCO headquarters. The role is office-based with potential for limited travel depending on project needs.

3. What is the salary for this role?
The starting salary is approximately $85,557 USD annually, excluding UN benefits such as health insurance, pension, paid leave, and relocation support, which can significantly increase total compensation.

4. Can U.S. citizens apply for this position?
Yes. This is an international UN position open to candidates of all nationalities, including U.S. citizens, provided they meet the qualifications and are eligible to work in France under UN protocols.

5. What qualifications are required?
You’ll need a Master’s degree (or equivalent advanced degree) in marine science, environmental policy, international relations, or a related field, and 2+ years of relevant experience, ideally with international or intergovernmental organizations.