Programme Specialist – UNESCO Ocean Literacy and Capacity Development Vacancy
💼 Position: Programme Specialist
📍 Location: Paris, France
💰 Salary: Approximately USD 131,965 annual starting salary (plus benefits and entitlements)
📅 Application Deadline: 31 August 2026
📧 Apply via: UNESCO Careers Portal
📌 Application Method: Complete the online application through the UNESCO Careers website before the deadline.
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UNESCO is inviting qualified professionals to apply for the position of Programme Specialist within the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC). Based in Paris, France, the successful candidate will lead UNESCO’s capacity development and ocean literacy programmes, supporting international efforts to strengthen ocean knowledge, education and sustainable marine management.
This fixed-term opportunity is suited for experienced professionals with backgrounds in ocean science, marine education, capacity development, international programme management and partnership building.
About the Position
| Job Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Employer | UNESCO – Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) |
| Position | Programme Specialist |
| Grade | P-4 |
| Contract Type | Fixed Term |
| Contract Duration | 2 years (renewable) |
| Duty Station | Paris, France |
| Job Family | Programme Coordination |
| Annual Starting Salary | Approximately USD 131,965 |
| Application Deadline | 31 August 2026 |
| Hiring Type | Internal and External Candidates |
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The Programme Specialist will serve under UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, supporting the development and delivery of IOC’s capacity development and ocean literacy programmes.
The role focuses on improving ocean understanding, strengthening marine education initiatives and supporting Member States in developing the knowledge and skills required to manage ocean resources sustainably. As a cross-cutting programme, capacity development and ocean literacy activities support various IOC programmes related to ocean observation, marine research, data management and policy development.
The successful candidate will work within the framework of UNESCO’s Medium-Term Strategy, IOC strategies and international commitments related to ocean science and sustainable development.
Key Responsibilities
The Programme Specialist will lead strategic planning, coordination and implementation of IOC capacity development and ocean literacy activities. This includes working with UNESCO teams, IOC regional bodies, Member States, international organisations and other stakeholders to design and deliver effective programmes.
The role involves developing partnerships with governments, research institutions, international organisations, non-governmental organisations and philanthropic partners to expand capacity-building opportunities. The successful candidate will also support resource mobilisation efforts by contributing to project proposals, managing approved programmes and monitoring implementation progress.
The position requires coordinating projects, managing budgets, supporting staff and contractors, and ensuring activities align with IOC priorities and strategic objectives.
The Programme Specialist will also lead expert groups, advisory committees and steering groups established by IOC Member States while preparing reports, recommendations and strategic documents for senior leadership and governing bodies.
A key part of the role will involve creating communication strategies that promote ocean literacy and demonstrate the importance of marine education and capacity development to international partners, donors and wider audiences.
Qualifications and Experience
Applicants must hold an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in an ocean-related field, education or another relevant discipline.
Candidates should have at least seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in marine education, capacity development, ocean literacy or related fields. At least three years of international experience is preferred.
Applicants should demonstrate experience in designing, implementing and evaluating international multidisciplinary programmes or projects. Strong experience in partnership development, resource mobilisation and collaboration with governments, agencies and institutions is required.
UNESCO is seeking candidates with strong leadership abilities, excellent communication skills and experience managing teams in multicultural environments.
Knowledge of marine education networks, ocean literacy initiatives, monitoring and evaluation frameworks and strategic programme development will be highly valuable.
Excellent written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of another UNESCO official language, including French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian or Spanish, is an advantage.
Benefits and Career Opportunity
UNESCO offers competitive international professional benefits, which may include annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance and pension benefits depending on eligibility.
The Programme Specialist position provides an opportunity to contribute to global ocean sustainability efforts while working with governments, scientists, educators and international organisations.
Professionals appointed to UNESCO international positions may also benefit from exposure to global policy development, international cooperation and strategic programme leadership.
Application Process
Interested candidates must complete the online application through the UNESCO Careers Portal before 31 August 2026.
Applicants should ensure that all information provided is accurate, as applications cannot be modified once submitted. The recruitment process may include written assessments, pre-recorded video interviews, panel interviews and reference checks.
UNESCO is committed to diversity, inclusion and equal opportunity. Applications from candidates from underrepresented Member States, women, persons with disabilities and individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged.
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