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Associate Project Officer (Marine Spatial Planning) - Job Opportunity at UNESCO

Paris, France
Contract
Mid-level
Posted: May 26, 2025
On-site
USD 84,123 per year

Benefits

Comprehensive 30-day annual leave package providing exceptional work-life balance, exceeding typical industry standards for international organizations
Complete family allowance support system demonstrating UNESCO's commitment to supporting employees' personal lives and dependents
Full medical insurance coverage ensuring health security and peace of mind for international assignments
Robust pension plan providing long-term financial security and retirement planning benefits
International organization employment status offering unique career development opportunities and global networking

Key Responsibilities

Lead strategic implementation of the MSPglobal Programme, directly contributing to UNESCO's 20-year legacy in marine spatial planning and shaping global ocean governance policies
Orchestrate high-level international meetings and maintain critical relationships with donors, beneficiary countries, and key stakeholders, positioning yourself as a central figure in global marine policy networks
Drive the development and delivery of cutting-edge MSP guidelines, tools, and training materials that will influence marine spatial planning practices worldwide
Co-organize and deliver impactful national, regional, and global MSP events that bring together international practitioners and decision-makers
Generate comprehensive project documentation and reporting to donors, directly influencing future funding decisions and program sustainability
Build and maintain a global network of MSP practitioners and authorities, establishing yourself as a key connector in the international marine policy community
Contribute to strategic project proposal development, helping secure future funding and expand UNESCO's influence in marine spatial planning

Requirements

Education

Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in the field of marine/coastal resources management, environmental sciences or equivalent

Experience

A minimum of two years of experience in the development of technical reports and trainings related to marine policies such as marine spatial planning, integrated coastal zone management, and sustainable blue economy. Experience in project implementation, including co-leading activities and support to information/knowledge management and project reporting. Demonstrated experience with organisation and facilitation of online and face-to-face events (preferably at international level)

Required Skills

Familiarity with UNESCO-IOC's guides on MSP Demonstrated ability to conceptualize issues, compile and analyse data as well as synthesise information in coherent and succinct formats Ability in basic web design (minor use of HTML), web content, etc Excellent coordination and organisational skills, high attention to details and ability to multi-task Flexibility and ability to work under tight deadlines and with a certain degree of autonomy following the directions and guidance of the supervisor Ability to work collaboratively in a multi-cultural environment, to engage effectively with existing and potential institutional partners/collaborators as well as team spirit Excellent knowledge of English
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Industry Trends

The global marine spatial planning sector is experiencing unprecedented growth as governments worldwide recognize the critical need for sustainable ocean management in response to climate change, overfishing, and competing maritime interests. The European Union's Maritime Spatial Planning Directive and similar policies globally are driving demand for MSP expertise. International organizations are increasingly prioritizing ocean governance as part of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021-2030), creating significant opportunities for professionals with MSP expertise to influence global policy frameworks. The integration of digital technologies and data analytics in marine spatial planning is revolutionizing the field, with growing emphasis on web-based tools, GIS applications, and stakeholder engagement platforms that require both technical and policy expertise.

Salary Evaluation

The USD 84,123 annual salary is competitive for international organization roles at the P-2 level, positioning slightly above market rate when considering the comprehensive benefits package, tax advantages, and career development opportunities typical of UN system organizations.

Role Significance

Typical team structure involves working within a specialized 5-8 person MSP team at UNESCO-IOC, with regular collaboration across international networks of 50+ practitioners and stakeholders globally.
This mid-level position represents a significant opportunity to influence global marine policy while working under senior leadership. The role combines operational responsibility with strategic input, positioning the incumbent as a key contributor to UNESCO's marine spatial planning initiatives.

Key Projects

Development of international MSP guidelines that will be adopted by multiple countries Coordination of multi-million dollar European Commission co-funded projects Organization of high-profile international conferences with 200+ participants from government, academia, and industry Capacity building programs across Africa, Latin America, Caribbean, Asia and Pacific regions

Success Factors

Building and maintaining strong relationships with international stakeholders, donors, and government representatives is crucial for project success and career advancement in this role Developing deep technical expertise in marine spatial planning tools and methodologies while maintaining awareness of broader ocean governance trends will distinguish high performers Demonstrating cultural sensitivity and multilingual communication skills is essential given the international scope and diverse stakeholder base of MSPglobal projects Balancing autonomous project management with collaborative team dynamics will be critical for delivering complex international projects on schedule

Market Demand

High demand driven by global ocean policy initiatives, climate change adaptation needs, and the growing recognition of marine spatial planning as essential for sustainable development goals.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Marine spatial planning expertise is absolutely essential as this represents the core technical competency required for all aspects of the role, from developing guidelines to training stakeholders and organizing events Project management and coordination skills are critical given the complex, multi-stakeholder nature of international development projects with strict timelines and deliverables Cross-cultural communication and stakeholder engagement abilities are vital for success in managing relationships with diverse international partners, government officials, and technical experts

Beneficial Skills

Web design and digital communication skills are increasingly valuable as marine spatial planning becomes more technology-driven and stakeholder engagement moves toward digital platforms Knowledge of French and Spanish significantly enhances effectiveness in engaging with francophone and hispanic regions covered by MSPglobal activities Understanding of UNESCO procedures and UN system operations accelerates integration and effectiveness within the organizational structure

Unique Aspects

This role offers rare direct involvement in shaping global ocean policy through the MSPglobal programme, which represents one of the most significant international initiatives in marine spatial planning
The position provides access to UNESCO's extensive global network and the opportunity to work on projects spanning multiple continents and cultures
Working on European Commission co-funded projects offers exposure to major international development funding mechanisms and high-level policy processes
The role combines technical expertise development with international diplomacy and stakeholder engagement, creating a unique professional profile highly valued in both public and private sectors

Career Growth

Progression to senior roles typically occurs within 3-5 years with demonstrated success in project delivery and stakeholder management

Potential Next Roles

Senior Project Officer or Program Coordinator roles within UNESCO or other UN agencies MSP Consultant positions with international development organizations or private sector firms National or regional MSP program leadership roles within government agencies Academic positions focusing on marine policy research and teaching

Company Overview

UNESCO

UNESCO stands as one of the world's most prestigious international organizations, serving as the United Nations' specialized agency for education, science, and culture. The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission represents UNESCO's authoritative voice in ocean science and governance, with a 60-year history of leading international ocean cooperation.

UNESCO-IOC holds the premier position in global ocean governance, serving as the coordinating body for ocean science within the UN system and maintaining partnerships with over 150 member states.
Based in Paris, this role sits at the heart of international diplomacy and policy-making, with regular interaction with European Commission officials, member state representatives, and global ocean governance networks.
UNESCO fosters a collaborative, multicultural environment that values diversity, intellectual rigor, and commitment to global sustainable development, offering unique opportunities for international travel and cross-cultural engagement.
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