Background Information - Job-specific
South East Asia Multi-Country Office (EAPMCO)
The South East Asia and Pacific Multi Country Office (EAPMCO) supports, develops and oversees the UNOPS projects in South East Asia and the Pacific. EAPMCO was established in January 2023 following the merger of the Thailand Multi-Country Office, which covered 20 countries across North East Asia, South East Asia and the Pacific, and the Cambodia Multi-Country Office, which covered 4 countries South East Asia - 3 countries in the Mekong Sub-region (Cambodia, Lao PDR and Vietnam) and the Philippines. EAPMCO currently covers 24 countries across North East Asia, South East Asia and the Pacific. With its head office in Bangkok, the Multi-Country Office comprises nine business units: SEMCO Thailand, EAPMCO Indonesia, EAPMCO Pacific Operations Cluster, EAPMCO Papua New Guinea, EAPMCO China, EAPMCO Vietnam, EAPMCO Lao PDR, EAPMCO Philippines and EAPMCO Cambodia.
In 2024, the UNOPS EAPMCO implemented projects worth more than USD 80 million, in the areas of Energy Transition, Digital Transformations, Sustainable Environmental Management, Climate Change, Waste Management, Rule of Law and Access to Justice, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Post Conflict Reintegration, Emergency Relief, Post COVID19 Economic Transformations, and Health, through HR, procurement, construction, contract management, fund and program management services. The Multi Country Office head office in Bangkok provides strategic direction, operational support, delivery oversight, and assurance of the excellence of business processes and quality standards across all of the Multi Country Office locations. It is also responsible for developing, delivering and managing the portfolio of engagements in the country of the MCO location itself.
UNOPS in Indonesia
UNOPS established its operations in Indonesia in 2005 in response to the catastrophic Indian Ocean tsunami. UNOPS has invested over $200 million in Indonesian projects, emphasizing advanced infrastructure development, sophisticated fund management, strategic procurement, and comprehensive capacity building. These projects address critical domains including environmental protection, climate resilience, energy transition, health system enhancement, educational facility reconstruction, and post-disaster recovery and management. UNOPS Indonesia also plays a vital role in enhancing post-COVID-19 economic resilience, advancing sustainable energy solutions, and providing advisory support, technical assistance, and transactional services to other UN agencies.
All Indonesian projects are delivered through the country teams based in Jakarta, Indonesia and backstopped by UNOPS South East Asia and Pacific Multi-Country Office (EAPMCO) in Bangkok, Thailand.
Southeast Asia Regional Program on Combating Marine Plastics (SEA-MaP Regional Project)
The Southeast Asia Regional Program on Combating Marine Plastics (SEA-MaP Regional Project) is a five-year program financed by the World Bank. Its objective is to aid the Member States (AMS) of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in combating marine plastic pollution and mitigating its negative impacts. This aligns with implementing the ASEAN Regional Action Plan (RAP) for Combating Marine Debris. The project is implemented by ASEAN through the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC), with the structure comprising a Project Steering Committee (PSC), a Project Management Unit (PMU), and a Regional Implementation Support Unit (RISU) located within the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). More information on the project can be found in the Project Appraisal Document (PAD).
The SEA-MaP Regional Project adopts a long-term, programmatic approach and is divided into two main components:
Strengthening Policies and Institutions for Plastics Circularity.
Through the development of regional guidelines, enhancement of plastics metrics and monitoring, and support for policy harmonization, the project aids in implementing the ASEAN RAP. The project's goals are designed to surpass its lifespan, aiming to strengthen regional actions and integrate them within the existing ASEAN structure, alongside fostering capacity building for decision-makers, private-sector champions, and other relevant stakeholders.
Establishing Regional Platforms for Innovation, Knowledge Sharing, and Partnerships.
The SEA-MaP Regional Project is committed to creating and institutionalizing two Platforms for 1) innovation and investment and 2) knowledge sharing and partnerships across ASEAN to address plastic pollution. These Platforms, aiming to bolster sustainability, will foster collaboration with regional private-sector champions and support existing data and research networks. They are designed to promote circular economy solutions and encourage plastic reduction partnerships. Further, they seek to catalyze private sector investment and support. The Platforms will provide technical assistance to plastics innovators, especially focusing on women-owned innovations, social enterprises, and NGOs, to help turn innovative ideas into proofs of concept, pilots, and bankable business solutions.
Table 1 below outlines the deliverables under each component.
Components
Deliverables
Component 1: Strengthen Regional Policies and Institutions for Plastics Circularity
1.1: Supporting Regional Policy Development, Harmonization, and Implementation
Best Practice Manual on Standards for Plastic Packaging
Regional Guidebook on Standards for Responsible Plastic Waste Trade, Sorted Plastics, and Recycled Plastics
Regional Guidebook on Financial Mechanisms for Investments in Plastic Waste Management
Regional Guidebook on Phasing Out Single-Use Plastics
EPR Handbook and Customized Toolkit
1.2: Supporting Regional Collaboration and Strengthening Monitoring Capacity
Regional Baseline Report (including on policies)
Guidebook for Common Methodologies for Assessment and Monitoring of Plastic Pollution
Regional Training Program on Plastic Waste Management
Component 2: Establish Regional Platforms to promote Innovations, Knowledge, and Partnerships for Plastics Circularity
2.1: Regional Platform for Innovation and Investments
Regional Platform for Innovation and Investments
Web Platform/โMarketplaceโ for Investments/ Innovation
Annual technology/innovation expos
Sustainability strategy
2.2: Establishing a Regional Platform for Knowledge and Partnerships
Resource Mobilization Strategy
Knowledge Sharing and Training
High-Level Policy Dialogue and Discussion
Communications
Scope of assignment
In this context, UNOPS is engaging an Individual Contractor (retainer) to support the Regional Implementation Support Unit (RISU) in executing its portfolio. The Retainer Specialist will offer assistance across various sectoral areas, including:
Technical Support & Quality Assurance
Serve as a key technical advisor, providing timely input to ensure the high-quality implementation of project deliverables. This includes offering expertise in marine plastic pollution, waste management, circular economy, policy frameworks, innovative solutions, financial strategies, and data analysis.
Provide specialized support to RISU on issues related to marine plastic pollution and the circular economy within the project's scope.
Assist RISU in managing assigned workstreams by monitoring progress, facilitating meetings to guide contractors, documenting decisions, and ensuring effective coordination.
Ensure quality assurance for assigned program activities and deliverables by:
Supporting SEA-MaP contractors with technical expertise and strategic guidance to fulfill assignments as outlined in the Terms of Reference (ToR) and inception plans.
Facilitating technical discussions with SEA-MaP implementing partners to address strategic issues and suggest improvements based on thorough analysis.
Leading the review process of contractors' deliverables by RISU and Implementing Partners, ensuring that any issues are satisfactorily resolved and that outputs meet the required quality standards for approval.
Stakeholder Engagement & Capacity Building
Support RISU in organizing and participating in technical meetings focused on marine plastic debris.
Deliver presentations to enhance operational capacity-building efforts.
Provide scientific advice to implementing partners to secure stakeholder engagement and support. Assist in engaging stakeholders and fostering partnerships among key entities, including government agencies, private sector participants, and community organizations.
Documentation & Reporting
Prepare written materials on marine plastics to aid decision-making and facilitate stakeholder engagement.
Draft technical documents, such as ToRs and reports.
Policy & Programmatic Support
Assist in conceptualizing activities related to marine plastics, including providing technical policy support.
Contribute to discussions on regional policy harmonization and the adoption of best practices to combat marine plastics.
Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E)
Assist RISU in conducting M&E activities as required.
Additional Advisory Responsibilities
Provide high-level technical advice on marine plastics initiatives as needed by the project team.
Specific Focus on the Regional Platform for Innovation and Investments
Among the assigned workstreams, the Specialist will specifically oversee activities related to implementing the Regional Platform for Innovation and Investment. This Platform aims to promote innovative circular economy solutions and foster partnerships focused on plastic reduction. It aligns with Action 14 of the ASEAN Regional Action Plan, which calls for establishing a regional platform to support innovation and investments in the plastic value chain within the ASEAN region.
The Platform seeks to stimulate, incubate, and commercialize innovations in plastics and plastic waste management. It engages academics, private sector stakeholders, investors, civil society, and policymakers to drive innovation in waste management and marine debris solutions. Key features include a digital financing marketplace, an AI-powered assistance tool, an accelerator program, and an annual innovation expo.
Functional ResponsibilitiesResult Orientation and Quality Assurance:
Assure the high-level technical quality of the activities planned under the SEA-MaP Regional programme.
Provide regular technical support to assigned contractors for delivering their work with excellence
Provide strategic inputs in the discussions among the RISU, the PMU, the ASEC and the World Bank.
Validate from the technical point of view the knowledge products of the project (documents, background papers, analyses, publications, etc.).
Provide high-quality technical advisory inputs and advice to UNOPS on any marine plastics technical issues and queries as requested from stakeholders to ensure strong buy-in on proposed methodologies related to the project implementation.
Provide high-level technical input and presentations on assigned topics/activities and the RISU at meetings, conferences, consultations, etc.
Technical Expertise and Oversight:
Provide updated information on marine plastic pollution, including sources, distribution, impacts, and mitigation strategies.
Analyze scientific literature, policy documents, and industry reports to stay informed about emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in the field.
Advise on conceptualizing the activities, bringing in relevant knowledge, examples, and best practices.
Provide expert advice and guidance to SEA-MaP consultants on the design and implementation of deliverables.
Support collaborating with government agencies, development entities, academia, and industry partners to identify priority areas for intervention and recommend evidence-based solutions.
Offer technical expertise and support to partners and stakeholders in the project seeking to address marine plastic pollution through capacity-building initiatives, training programs, and educational workshops.
Support the quality assurance of training materials, manuals, and guidelines on plastic waste management and pollution prevention for diverse audiences.
Support in reviewing the progress of the project by analyzing data on performance indicators
Provide technical support in developing communication materials, including reports, presentations, and social media content, to communicate research findings, policy recommendations, and success stories to diverse audiences.
Prepare the scope of work of the various activities and detailed Terms of Reference for any new capacity building work or rolling-out any current technical deliverables of the project. Support in identifying appropriate individual or institutional contractors for any evolving workstreams of the project.
Capacity Building and Knowledge Management:
Provide technical support and capacity development to AMS and institutional stakeholders.
Develop and implement mentoring, coaching, and hands-on guidance programs for contractors.
Support the dissemination of project findings, ensuring accessibility and alignment with ASEAN priorities.
Ensuring regional-level capacity building activities are tailored to the needs of the AMS.
Other tasks:
Provide backstopping technical support to the RISU as requested by the Senior Program Manager/RISU project coordinator on any marine plastics technical issue as required.
Any other tasks related to providing high-level technical advice to RISU as required by the project team on ASEANs behalf.
Develops and implements sustainable business strategies, thinks long term and externally in order to positively shape the organization. Anticipates and perceives the impact and implications of future decisions and activities on other parts of the organization.(for levels IICA-2, IICA-3, LICA Specialist- 10, LICA Specialist-11, NOC, NOD, P3, P4 and above) Treats all individuals with respect; responds sensitively to differences and encourages others to do the same. Upholds organizational and ethical norms. Maintains high standards of trustworthiness. Role model for diversity and inclusion.
Acts as a positive role model contributing to the team spirit. Collaborates and supports the development of others. For people managers only: Acts as positive leadership role model, motivates, directs and inspires others to succeed, utilizing appropriate leadership styles. Demonstrates understanding of the impact of own role on all partners and always puts the end beneficiary first. Builds and maintains strong external relationships and is a competent partner for others (if relevant to the role). Efficiently establishes an appropriate course of action for self and/or others to accomplish a goal. Actions lead to total task accomplishment through concern for quality in all areas. Sees opportunities and takes the initiative to act on them. Understands that responsible use of resources maximizes our impact on our beneficiaries. Open to change and flexible in a fast paced environment. Effectively adapts own approach to suit changing circumstances or requirements. Reflects on experiences and modifies own behavior. Performance is consistent, even under pressure. Always pursues continuous improvements. Evaluates data and courses of action to reach logical, pragmatic decisions. Takes an unbiased, rational approach with calculated risks. Applies innovation and creativity to problem-solving. Expresses ideas or facts in a clear, concise and open manner. Communication indicates a consideration for the feelings and needs of others. Actively listens and proactively shares knowledge. Handles conflict effectively, by overcoming differences of opinion and finding common ground. Education/Experience/Language requirements
Education: Minimum advanced university degree (Masterโs or equivalent) or higher degree in relevant disciplines such as Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Management, Marine Biology, Marine Ecology, Natural resource management, Sustainability Studies, or another relevant discipline is required.
A first university degree (Bachelorโs or equivalent) in above-mentioned fields with two (2) additional years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of an advanced degree or higher degrees.
Experience:
At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in marine plastic pollution, circular economy, environmental sustainability, or related research areas.
Experience working on relevant regulations and policies related to waste management; recycling, and plastic pollution prevention; Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) frameworks; single-use plastic ban/reduction frameworks, etc, is required.
Experience in marine plastics-related innovation projects/programs is required.
Experience working with innovators, investors, the private sector, incubation and acceleration programs and engaging in technical capacity building, matchmaking, and business development is a strong asset.
Previous experience working with platforms on innovation platforms dedicated to addressing plastic pollution is a strong asset.
Relevant experience in addressing marine plastic debris, innovative solutions, and policies in the ASEAN region is a strong asset.
Familiarity with World Bank projects and ASEAN institutional frameworks and key stakeholders is a distinct advantage.
Required experience in producing, editing and reviewing high-quality documents (reports, guidebooks, manuals, training materials, etc.).
Experience in mentoring, coaching, monitoring consultants and contractors, and managing project portfolios is required.
Understanding of IT, AI-driven systems, and Digital Platform Development is a strong asset.
Experience in working with the UN, normative bodies, government, non-government actors, private sector, academia, and the community is desirable.
Required expertise in capacity-building and stakeholder engagement within an international or regional context.
Skills:
Strong technical expertise in marine plastics and circular economy solutions.
Exceptional coordination and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to provide quality assurance and mentoring for technical deliverables.
Proficiency in project management tools and methodologies.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Full working knowledge (Fluency) in written and oral English is required.
Knowledge of another official UNOPS language is an asset
Contract type, level and duration
Contract type: International ICA , Retainer Contract level: ICS 10 / IICA-2 / LICA 10 Contract duration: One year with the possibility of extension subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds and satisfactory performance.
For more details about the ICA contractual modality, please follow this link:
https://www.unops.org/english/Opportunities/job-opportunities/what-we-offer/Pages/Individual-Contractor-Agreements.aspx
Disclaimer:
This is not a full-time position. Retainers may be requested to carry out tasks on an intermittent and need basis. There are no minimum hours or days guaranteed. In duty stations where the NPO category has been established by the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC), a Local Individual Contractor Agreement (LICA) must be issued for a home-based contract. For home-based position, it will be the responsibility of the selected candidate to make arrangements, to a standard deemed acceptable by UNOPS, for a secure internet connections, laptop and/or equipment necessary for work (as defined by UNOPS). For home-based positions, candidates must have the necessary permissions to work in their home base location without sponsorship from UNOPS.Additional Information
Please note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes.
Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments.
UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity. Our workforce consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages, races, gender identities, sexual orientations, and abilities. UNOPS seeks to sustain and strengthen this diversity to ensure equal opportunities as well as an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce.
Qualified women and candidates from groups which are underrepresented in the UNOPS workforce are encouraged to apply. These include in particular candidates from racialized and/or indigenous groups, members of minority gender identities and sexual orientations, and people with disabilities.
We would like to ensure all candidates perform at their best during the assessment process. If you are shortlisted and require additional assistance to complete any assessment, including reasonable accommodation, please inform our human resources team when you receive an invitation.
Terms and Conditions
For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.
For retainer contracts, you must complete a few mandatory courses ( they take around 4 hours to complete) in your own time, before providing services to UNOPS. Refreshers or new mandatory courses may be required during your contract. Please note that you will not receive any compensation for taking courses and refreshers. For more information on a retainer contract here.
All UNOPS personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, as well as other relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, all personnel must demonstrate an understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in a manner consistent with UN core values and the UN Common Agenda.
It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential personnel. Recruitment in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.