Analista Ambiental (Open to all applicants)
Qualifications of Analista Ambiental:
- Location:
- Vacancy No: 29714
- Salary: N/A
- Organization: UNDP United Nations Development Programme
- Deadline: 11/05/2025
Brief details about Analista Ambiental:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our extensive network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations build integrated and lasting solutions for people and the planet.
UNDP works in more than 170 countries and territories, providing assistance in policy development, leadership and partnership skills, institutional capacity, and resilience building, promoting sustainable human development. In Panama, it works at the national, municipal, and regional levels. UNDP is part of the United Nations Agencies, Funds, and Programs in Panama, contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The UNDP Country Program Document 2021-2025 seeks to support the efforts of the Panamanian government by 2025 to make the country resilient, with public policies implemented for climate change adaptation and mitigation, land degradation neutrality, biodiversity protection, integrated environmental management, and disaster and health crisis risk reduction, with a territorial, intercultural, human rights, gender, and life course approach. UNDP contributes to this outcome through three outputs:
P3.1. Government institutions and municipalities have improved their institutional and legal frameworks and capacity to respond to climate change and ensure resilience to environmental vulnerabilities and emergencies.
P3.2. Integrated water and coastal zone management includes climate resilience and good practices in green supply chains.
P3.3. National capacities have been enhanced to develop nature-based solutions and climate change adaptation mechanisms that generate sustainable livelihoods.
This approach also mainstreams human rights, gender equity, women’s empowerment, and leaving no one behind.
In its role as a development partner and facilitator of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we provide technical assistance to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs as a catalyst for ensuring that all people live better lives in harmony with the planet.
At the programmatic level, UNDP Panama is organized into three clusters and one portfolio: the Environment, Climate Change, and Risk Management for Sustainable Development Cluster; the Social Inclusion and Equity Cluster; and the Governance, Peace, and Human Rights Cluster. The portfolio focuses on social cohesion for Panama.
In the area of Environment, Climate Change and Risk Management (where the other clusters and portfolios converge), integrated watershed management is one of the tools for achieving the best or optimal allocation of water and land use/human activities to guarantee long-term water resources, healthy ecosystems, and prosperity for people.
In compliance with its constitutional mandate, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP), through its Environmental Policy and Protection Division, has developed actions for the conservation of water resources in terms of quality and quantity for nearly 20 years through comprehensive watershed management. This management has been developed jointly with strategic alliances among stakeholders interacting in the territory, building an unprecedented model of watershed management in the country.
Integrated management of the Panama Canal Watershed (PCW) is the result of a participatory process supported by interdisciplinary research that examined the diverse range of knowledge and experiences, as well as the types of interactions between the population and its environment. The knowledge gained provided evidence for implementing programs based on the dimensions of sustainability that would impact the transformation of traditional development models in the basin.
Project PS102418 “Integrated Management of the Panama Canal Watershed as a Proven Model for Sustainable Development” is designed for the environmental sustainability of the Basin, perfecting the integrated watershed management model, and improving the quality of life of its inhabitants, which impacts people, empowered citizens to conserve the basin and ensure that it remains in healthy conditions to meet current and future demands for water, fertile soils, biodiversity, among others.
The project “Integrated Management of the Panama Canal Watershed, as a proven model for sustainable development”, and the five (5) proposed results, are directly linked to the EDSD and the PIOTA, being an important executing arm for the implementation of the strategic guidelines and priority projects defined in these instruments, as well as in the construction of reference models on integrated watershed management.
The 5 expected results of the Project are:
1. Men and women from rural populations in the Panama Canal Watershed have secured access to land ownership in sustainable regions.
2. Local governance structures are functioning in a coordinated and strengthened manner for the participation and inclusion of men and women, promoting parity in the integrated management of the Panama Canal Watershed.
3. Inclusive, sustainable green businesses, with a sustainable financing mechanism, a focus on climate change adaptation, and a gender perspective are being developed in the Panama Canal Watershed as incentives for conservation.
4. Communities in the selected sub-basins have proven models for the integrated management of the Panama Canal Watershed and are supported through partnerships with the private sector to promote sustainable territorial development.
5. A monitoring and control system is established for prioritized protected areas and for basin areas or economic and productive sectors of interest.
These goals aim to contribute to SDGs 6: Clean water and sanitation, 11: Sustainable cities and communities, 12: Responsible production and consumption, 13: Climate action, 15: Life on land, and also to placing the people of the Basin as a fundamental element of the social fabric, SDG 1: No poverty, and 5: Gender equality. Additionally, SDG 16: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, and SDG 17: Partnerships to achieve the goals, in terms of expanding and strengthening participation and building alliances.
Project Objective
Protected areas in the Canal Basin play a key role in the conservation of its water resources. The natural wealth and conservation of protected areas, and therefore their water resources, are highly threatened by economic activities, increasing urbanization, and the development of highly intrusive activities such as mining, among others. The institutions responsible for managing these natural spaces face a series of technical and administrative limitations that prevent them from fulfilling their obligations regarding the management of natural heritage and the effective implementation of policies and programs that prevent, or, in a second stage, appropriately sanction, situations of regulatory noncompliance.
Given this situation, this project proposes the joint establishment of a protected areas management program, with a view to establishing joint programs with the Ministry of Environment for monitoring and control, and promoting cultural changes in land management, fostering the sustainable development of its communities. Similarly, environmental prevention, assessment, and monitoring programs for the Panama Canal are planned for the Panama Canal Watershed, addressing the productive activities carried out within the area and those that generate environmental aspects and impacts that increase pressure on the quality and quantity of the area’s water resources. Special attention is required for the Trans-Isthmus Corridor, which contains the greatest concentration and diversity of economic activities that require systematic environmental monitoring to promote the implementation of good environmental practices aimed at preventing environmental pollution.
Within the framework of this effort, and with a view to establishing a systematic surveillance and control system in the Panama Canal’s areas of responsibility, this project is being implemented. Initial activities include hiring trained personnel to perform various technical tasks. These professionals include an environmental protection technician.
Scope of work
The Environmental Analyst will perform tasks aimed at promoting compliance with standards, procedures, and regulations applicable to various economic activities, as well as the implementation of good environmental practices. They will design, formulate, and implement environmental monitoring, surveillance, and control programs for productive areas or sectors of interest to the Panama Canal Authority.
Technical Responsibilities:
• Serve as team leader for technicians and consultants involved in tasks related to the scope of work; ensure the timely preparation of reports, reports, and documents required under said scope, within the agreed deadlines; and ensure quality control for corresponding standards.
• Design, establish, and maintain a registration system for economic, productive, and other activities carried out within the Panama Canal watershed and/or by third parties in the Canal’s areas of responsibility.
• Evaluate, design, and establish monitoring systems for significant environmental aspects and impacts of activities carried out in the CHCP and the Canal’s areas of responsibility.
• Propose and advise on the development and establishment of standards, guides, and guidelines that promote good environmental practices and environmental compliance for activities carried out in the CHCP and in the Canal’s areas of responsibility.
• Propose, design, and implement instructions, procedures, and protocols for the environmental monitoring and follow-up of third-party activities and projects in the Canal Basin and its areas of responsibility.
• Formulate, direct, and conduct studies, analyses, evaluations, and field verifications related to the occupation and/or development of activities by third parties in the Canal’s areas of responsibility.
• Propose, design, and implement environmental monitoring, surveillance, and control programs for activities in the basin and its areas of responsibility.
• Conduct analyses, evaluations, and reports on actions in the territory that affect the conservation of natural resources, and particularly water resources, in the Canal Basin.
• Evaluate and monitor the implementation of environmental prevention, mitigation, or compensation measures for activities carried out in the Canal Basin and its heritage areas.
• Conduct studies, analyses, evaluations, and reports on the conservation status of natural resources in the Canal Basin and its areas of responsibility.
• Develop and implement awareness programs aimed at various stakeholders (public, private, community, and others) within the CHCP and its areas of responsibility on aspects related to the socio-environmental management of activities carried out within the territory.
• Coordinate and participate in meetings and events with institutions, communities, local authorities, and other key stakeholders in the project’s areas of interest, as well as conduct field visits to address project-related tasks.
• The incumbent performs other functions within his or her functional profile that are considered necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.
Impact of Results:
Improve environmental performance and management of activities in the territory by establishing appropriate systems for environmental assessment, surveillance, monitoring, and control.
Institutional agreement
The Environmental Analyst will work under the direct supervision of the Project Coordinator and under the strategic guidance of the Environment, Climate Change and Sustainable Development Program Officer.
Expenses involving transportation, lodging, and food, in accordance with the project’s activities and requirements, will be covered by the project in accordance with UNDP rules and procedures.
Skills
Achieving Results:
LEVEL 1: Plans and supervises own work, pays attention to detail, delivers quality work by deadline.
Thinking outside the box:
LEVEL 1: Open to creative ideas/known risks, is a pragmatic problem solver, makes improvements.
Continuous Learning
LEVEL 1: Open-minded and curious, shares knowledge, learns from mistakes, asks for feedback
Adapts with agility:
LEVEL 1: Adapts to change, constructively handles ambiguity/uncertainty, is flexible.
Act with determination:
LEVEL 1: Shows drive and motivation, able to perform calmly in the face of adversity with confidence.
Engagement and Partnership:
Level 1: Demonstrates compassion and understanding toward others, establishes positive relationships.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Level 1: Appreciates/respects differences, is aware of unconscious biases, and confronts discrimination.
Transversal skills
Institutional Management – Communication:
• Communicate clearly, concisely, and accurately, both in writing and verbally; personalize messages and select communication methods based on the audience.
• Ability to manage internal and external communications through the media, social networks, and other appropriate channels.
Institutional Management and Strategy – Negotiation and Influence:
• Reach a common understanding or agreement, persuade others, resolve points of difference through dialogue, negotiate solutions acceptable to all parties and create win-win situations.
Institutional Management and Strategy – Effective Decision-Making:
• Make decisions in a timely and effective manner, consistent with authority, area of expertise, and available resources, and consider the potential for broader implications.
Association Management – Working with Data and Evidence:
• Ability to examine, cleanse, transform, and model data to uncover valuable insights, guide conclusions, and inform decision-making.
Business Development – Collective Intelligence Design:
• Ability to bring together diverse groups of people, data, information, ideas, and technology to solve problems and design solutions or services. Knowledge and understanding of the principles, methodology, design, and practices of collective intelligence.
Technical skills
Digital Environment – Data Collection:
• Be skilled in data classification, data cleaning, survey administration, presentations and reports, including real-time data collection (e.g., mobile, satellite, or sensor data).
Data – Data Analysis:
• Ability to extract, analyze and visualize data to obtain valuable information and contribute to effective institutional decision-making.
Minimum requirements for the NPSA
Minimum Education Requirements
• Advanced university studies (Master’s degree completed or equivalent) in Environmental Management, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Impact Management or related environment is required or
• A Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Management, Agricultural Engineering or related bachelor’s or engineering degrees in combination with two additional years of relevant experience will be considered favorably in lieu of a Master’s degree.
Minimum Years of Relevant Work Experience
• Applicants with a master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field of study do not need to have professional work experience. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) must have a minimum of two (2) years of experience in topics related to environmental inspections and audits.
Required Skills
• Experience coordinating or leading work teams.
• Experience in project management.
• Experience in environmental diagnostics, environmental monitoring and/or environmental impact assessment.
• Experience in preparing technical reports related to the conservation and/or protection of natural resources or environmental management and/or watershed management.
• Ability to analyze and interpret environmental regulations and policies.
• Ability to work in interdisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office computer programs (Word, Excel, Teams and PowerPoint) Zoom, One Drive, SharePoint, among others.
Desired Skills
• Experience in formulating, developing, or implementing environmental monitoring and oversight programs.
• Experience in environmental assessment and monitoring processes.
• Experience in preparing environmental technical reports.
• Experience in environmental audits.
Other Requirements
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to operate 4×4 vehicles in hard-to-reach areas.
• Must be able to swim, as work assignments require being near water.
• Must be willing to work in hard-to-reach areas, where work may involve hiking, horseback riding, and traveling in canoes or outboard motors.
• Must be willing to work Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, as well as extended shifts of more than eight (8) hours. Occasionally, overnight stays in work areas may be required, depending on project demands.
Required Language(s)
• Fluency in Spanish is required
Professional Certificates
• Qualification is required for those who hold university degrees in careers for which qualification is required to be practiced in the Republic of Panama.
Equal Opportunity
As an equal opportunity employer, UNDP values diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures in which we operate and, as such, we invite all qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply for different roles within our organization. Our employment decisions are based on merit and suitability for the position, without discrimination of any kind.
UNDP is also committed to creating an inclusive work environment where all staff are empowered to contribute to our mission, are valued, thrive, and benefit from open career opportunities.
Sexual Harassment, Exploitation, and Abuse of Authority
UNDP does not tolerate harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination, or abuse of authority. Therefore, all selected candidates undergo thorough vetting and are expected to adhere to the respective standards and principles.
Right to select multiple candidates.
UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates who apply for this position for other similar positions within UNDP at the same level and with similar job descriptions, experience requirements, and academic qualifications.