Technical Assistant

United Nations Environment Programme is the leading global environmental authority, setting the environmental agenda and promoting the sustainable use of natural resources. Headquartered in Nairobi, UNEP works with governments, partners, and stakeholders to address the triple planetary crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

Within UNEP, the Chief Digital Office (CDO) drives the organization’s digital transformation agenda, leveraging emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence—to enhance environmental decision-making, governance, and sustainable development outcomes. This assignment contributes to strengthening UNEP’s digital innovation and strategic coordination efforts.

The Technical Assistant (Special Assistant to the Chief Digital Officer) will be based in Nairobi and will provide strategic, analytical, and coordination support to the Chief Digital Officer. The role focuses on supporting high-level engagements, research, and implementation of digital transformation initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Organizational & Executive Support
• Provide logistical and analytical support for meetings, workshops, and stakeholder engagements.
• Prepare agendas, briefing notes, presentations, and talking points for high-level engagements.
• Support scheduling, coordination, and follow-up of meetings and key activities.
• Accompany the Chief Digital Officer in meetings and support documentation of discussions and outcomes.

2. Strategic Coordination & Communication
• Support internal coordination across teams and ensure timely follow-up on action points.
• Manage correspondence, track requests, and maintain organized workflows for the office.
• Contribute to preparation of reports, summaries, and communication materials.

3. Research & Policy Analysis
• Conduct research and analysis on trends in artificial intelligence, digital technologies, and sustainability.
• Monitor global, regional, and national policy developments relevant to UNEP’s digital agenda.
• Synthesize complex information into concise briefs and actionable insights.

4. Knowledge Management & Innovation
• Support documentation of key initiatives, lessons learned, and strategic insights.
• Contribute to strengthening UNEP’s digital innovation and knowledge-sharing processes.
• Assist in identifying opportunities to leverage emerging technologies for programme impact.

Profile Required

Experience

Minimum 3 years relevant experience, including:
• Research, policy analysis, or strategic coordination
• Experience supporting high-level meetings, events, or stakeholder engagements
• Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills
• Experience in digital transformation, AI, or sustainability is an asset
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural and fast-paced environment

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, International Relations, Political Science, Economics, Environmental Studies, Data Science, Digital Innovation, Communications, Business Administration, or related field.

Languages
• Fluent English

Volunteer Living Allowance:

UN Volunteers serve full-time in their professional expertise, supported by a benefits package, including a monthly living allowance to ensure a secure standard of living at their duty stations. These allowances are not intended as compensation, reward, or salary for the volunteer's service.

Check out our Entitlement Calculator on UVP, the Unified Volunteer Platform.