About the opportunity
The Project Technical Officer (Associate Programme Officer) will provide hands-on technical implementation and assurance for assigned activities within the Kilimanjaro Transboundary Aquifer System (KTAS) Project, titled “Unlocking the Groundwater Potential of the Kilimanjaro Water Tower” (GEF ID 11547). Operating under the Natural Sciences Sector (SC) in Nairobi, Kenya, the incumbent will help convert field observations, partner inputs, and technical studies into validated datasets, maps, implementation records, monitoring evidence, and concise technical products. The five-year GEF International Waters initiative is implemented by FAO and executed by UNESCO in collaboration with Kenya and Tanzania to strengthen water security, climate resilience, and transboundary cooperation.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive salary associated with the SB5 level service contract
- 12-month contract duration with the possibility of renewal
- Opportunity to work within a prominent international environmental and scientific cooperation project
Who can apply?
- Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in hydrogeology, geology, water resources management, environmental science, geoinformatics, or a closely related field
- Early-career professional experience in applied hydrogeology, groundwater monitoring, water-resources data, GIS, or environmental fieldwork (intended for candidates with less than two years of relevant professional experience)
- Practical experience collecting, checking, analysing, or presenting environmental or water data
- Experience preparing clear technical records, maps, figures, briefs, or reports from multiple sources
- Excellent knowledge of English (written and spoken); working knowledge of Kiswahili is desirable, and knowledge of French or another official UNESCO language is an asset
Required documents
- Online application via the UNESCO Careers website with complete and accurate information
When to apply
- Application deadline is 16/10/2026 at midnight UTC+3 time
How to apply
- Visit the UNESCO Careers website
- Complete the online application form and provide all required information before the deadline
- Participate in further selection stages if shortlisted, which may include pre-recorded video interviews, written assessments, and panel interviews
Additional information
- The position is based on-site in Nairobi, Kenya, under a Service Contract at level SB5 within the Natural Sciences Sector (SC).
- Hiring is open to external candidates.
- UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment and does not charge a fee at any stage of the hiring process.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- An ideal match for early-career hydrogeologists or environmental scientists looking to apply GIS and water resources skills in an international development context.
- Strong fit for candidates with academic training in water resources management or geology who want hands-on experience in transboundary aquifer projects.
- Well-suited for professionals eager to collaborate directly with government agencies and international stakeholders in East Africa.
What should you think carefully about?
- The contract is initially offered for 12 months, which means long-term job security depends on project extensions or subsequent opportunities.
- Relocation to Nairobi, Kenya, is required for this on-site position.
- Candidates should possess strong foundational technical skills in GIS and hydrogeology to meet the demands of rapid field data processing and reporting.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This 12-month service contract provides practical, high-profile international project experience that bridges academic study and applied groundwater management. It serves as an excellent stepping stone for junior specialists aiming to build a career in international water governance, environmental science, or United Nations agencies.
Our take
Early-career professionals holding an advanced degree in hydrogeology or water resources management who are ready to relocate to Nairobi should seriously consider applying. Those seeking permanent institutional staff positions right away or lacking foundational GIS and environmental data experience may find this role less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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