Title:  Industrial Development Officer

​Requisition ID: 5372 
Grade: L4 
Country: Austria 
Duty Station: Vienna 
Category: Professional and Higher 
Type of Job Posting: Internal and External
Employment Type: Staff-Full-time
Appointment Type: Fixed Term - 200 series
Indicative Minimum Net Annual Salary: 124,044 USD 
Application Deadline: 18-Apr-2025, 11:59 PM (Vienna, Austria time)

Vacancy Announcement
THE APPOINTMENT IS LIMITED TO THE SPECIFIED PROJECT(S) ONLY AND DOES NOT CARRY ANY EXPECTATION OF RENEWAL. 
Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.
Detailed information on the project can be found at UNIDO’s Open Data Platform: https://open.unido.org/

Organizational Context

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is the specialized agency of the United Nations that promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization and environmental sustainability. The mission of UNIDO, as described in the Lima Declaration adopted at the fifteenth session of the UNIDO General Conference in 2013 as well as the Abu Dhabi Declaration adopted at the eighteenth session of UNIDO General Conference in 2019, is to promote and accelerate inclusive and sustainable industrial development (ISID) in Member States. The relevance of ISID as an integrated approach to all three pillars of sustainable development is recognized by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which will frame United Nations and country efforts towards sustainable development. UNIDO’s mandate is fully recognized in SDG-9, which calls to “Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation”. The relevance of ISID, however, applies in greater or lesser extent to all SDGs. Accordingly, the Organization’s programmatic focus is structured in four strategic priorities: Creating shared prosperity; Advancing economic competitiveness; Safeguarding the environment; and Strengthening knowledge and institutions.

Each of these programmatic fields of activity contains a number of individual programmes, which are implemented in a holistic manner to achieve effective outcomes and impacts through UNIDO’s four enabling functions: (i) technical cooperation; (ii) analytical and research functions and policy advisory services; (iii) normative functions and standards and quality-related activities; and (iv) convening and partnerships for knowledge transfer, networking and industrial cooperation. Such core functions are carried out in Divisions/Offices in its Headquarters, Regional Offices and Hubs and Country Offices.

The Directorate of SDG Innovation and Economic Transformation (IET) is responsible for developing, based on existing and to-be-developed capacities and service modules, innovative services aimed at strengthening the existing technical cooperation portfolio to meet the current global challenges and attract more funding and new donors, as well as engaging in more and new partnerships with Member States, development partners and the private sector. The Directorate also ensures internal coordination and integration of technical cooperation services at UNIDO and monitoring of the quality and impact thereof. 

The Directorate houses the Divisions of Agribusiness and Infrastructure Development (IET/AGR), Innovative Finance and International Financial Institutions (IET/IFI), Fair Production, Sustainability Standards and Trade (IET/PST), Public-Private Partnerships (IET/PPP), and Climate and Technology Partnerships (IET/CTP). The Directorate also ensures close coordination and collaboration among the Divisions and relevant entities in the Directorate of Global Partnerships and External Relations (GLO) and the Directorate of Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Industrial Development (TCS). 

The focus of the Division of Climate and Technology Partnerships (IET/CTP) is to identify, design, negotiate and coordinate innovative partnerships and support the elaboration and initiation of joint technical cooperation programmes and actions. The Division coordinates UNIDO Global Programme for Hydrogen in Industry and its related partnership and technical cooperation programme and represents UNIDO in relevant high-level policy discussions and fora. The Division facilitates skills development, knowledge management and exchange, and supports UNIDO’s global forum activities associated to climate and technology innovation; and coordinates high-level partnerships and events. Furthermore, the Division aims to support increased participation of Member State and private sector in carbon markets, strengthen global coordination and integrity of carbon projects, and position UNIDO as a leader in the carbon markets space. 

This position is located in the Global Carbon Solutions (IET/CTP/GCS) Unit of the Climate and Technology Partnerships Division. The GCS Unit will coordinate and integrate UNIDO’s strategic approach under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Working in close collaboration with relevant UNIDO divisions and units, the GCS Unit will lead and coordinate UNIDO initiatives on carbon market engagement, including capacity-building efforts under Article 6. It will identify, design, negotiate, and manage carbon market opportunities to support the participation of developing nations in Article 6 mechanisms. It will build strategic partnerships among Member States, the private sector, financial institutions, research institutions, experts, innovation platforms, intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), and other key stakeholders to foster and enhance engagement in a high integrity carbon market. Additionally, it will facilitate knowledge sharing among stakeholders, promote the exchange of expertise, and identify best practices to empower developing nations in their carbon market participation.   

The Technical Advisor will work under the overall guidance of the Chief of IET/CTP, and in close collaboration with colleagues to support the mandate of the Division. 

At the L4 level, the incumbent is expected to deliver (a) work that is innovative and original; (b) in creating an enabling environment which expands across functions and sectors; (c) in building partnerships which result in advocating and championing UNIDO’s programmes and (d) in achieving results within Programme teams. The measure of success is systemic and catalytic delivery of results. 

The UNIDO Staff Performance Management System reinforces collaboration within formal units as well as among cross-functional teams. In this context, the incumbent collaborates with his/her supervisor and colleagues, within as well as outside the unit. Within the formal teams, the incumbent may be expected to backstop other team members as required. 

Staff members are subject to the authority of the Director-General and in this context all staff are expected to serve in any assignment and duty station as determined by the needs of the Organization. 

Project/Programme Context 

Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015 and entered into force in 2016, is a legally binding international treaty on climate change, which mandates countries into climate action to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Article 6 of the Paris Agreement provides principles for how countries can “pursue voluntary cooperation” to reach their climate targets. Article 6.2 allows countries to trade emission reductions and removals (carbon credits) with one another through bilateral or multilateral agreements as well as government-to-private sector on voluntary carbon markets. Countries and firms are eligible to apply for the so-called “emissions compensation” (or offsets) for compensation of emissions in excess of their targets despite emissions abatement measures. The private sector champions various emissions offsetting schemes with varying quality levels. Article 6.4 will create a global carbon market overseen by a United Nations entity, referred to as the “Article 6.4 Supervisory Body”. Project developers will request to register their projects with the Supervisory Body. A project must be approved by both the country where it is implemented, and the Supervisory Body, before it can start issuing UN-recognised credits. These credits, known as A6.4ERs, can be bought by countries, companies, or even individuals. 

In November 2024, during COP 29, an agreement on Article 6 rules was reached, marking a significant milestone as Article 6 is now considered fully operational. This agreement sets the stage for a new phase of international cooperation on carbon markets, enabling countries to meet their climate goals through mechanisms that foster transparency, environmental integrity, and sustainable development. 

Countries and major public and private enterprises increasingly recognize the potential of carbon market-based approaches as part of a package of solutions to drive emissions reductions, stimulate green investments, and support sustainable development. By creating a market for carbon emissions, these systems introduce a financial value to reducing greenhouse gas pollution. The economic incentive encourages businesses and governments to seek out and implement cost-effective ways to lower their carbon footprint. 

Against this backdrop, an internal UNIDO Task Force was set up to investigate the potential role the Organization could play in helping developing countries benefit from renewable energy and industrial decarbonisation projects on the voluntary carbon markets. Building on the outcomes of the work carried out by the Task Force, the   project aims to empower UNIDO Member States and private sector partners to actively participate in high-integrity carbon markets, leveraging Article 6 mechanisms. Through strategic partnerships, capacity building, and project development, the project will focus on fostering scalable, replicable carbon market projects while integrating carbon credit solutions into UNIDO operations. The project also seeks to enhance UNIDO leadership in global carbon markets by developing innovative methodologies, such as for hydrogen-based carbon credits, and by actively engaging in international forums. Ultimately, the project will contribute to global climate action, sustainable development, and the transition to low-carbon economies. 

The project includes the following two outputs

1. Develop a pipeline of high-integrity carbon markets projects. This includes forging partnerships with relevant stakeholders and actors and identifying and developing carbon markets projects, also through the development of dedicated carbon markets project evaluation tools and methodologies for assessing carbon credits. 

2. Strengthen the positioning of UNIDO in the global carbon markets space. This includes building UNIDO internal know-how on carbon markets by organizing specialized training sessions on carbon offsetting methodologies and the specific requirements for carbon projects, positioning UNIDO in the UN system coordination on carbon markets, ensuring UNIDO participation to high-level fora, coordination groups, and policy dialogues, strengthening the role of the Organization and coordination within the UN system on carbon market, and building know-how on Article 6 for the Organization’s Member States. 

3. Functional Responsibilities 

The incumbent works under the overall guidance of the Chief of the IET/CTP Division, and in close collaboration with the colleagues to support the implementation of the carbon market work of the Division. 

The incumbent is responsible for designing, implementing, and monitoring activities aimed at enhancing the participation of developing countries and private sector partners in global carbon markets. Key focus areas include fostering partnerships, developing innovative methodologies (e.g., hydrogen-based carbon credits), and contributing to positioning UNIDO as a leader in high-integrity global carbon market dialogues. 

The incumbent ensures the timely delivery of project outputs, mobilize resources, and engage stakeholders to create a pipeline of high-integrity carbon market projects. He/she oversees capacity-building programs and promote knowledge sharing across Member States, UNIDO staff, and the private sector. 

The role involves managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders, maintaining alignment with Article 6 mechanisms, and ensuring that UNIDO activities adhere to the highest standards of transparency, environmental integrity, and sustainability. 

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to

Programme Development

• Lead the development and formulation of technical cooperation projects and programmes related to high-integrity carbon markets, ensuring alignment with UNIDO strategic goals and guidelines and with Article 6 mechanisms. 
• Foster partnerships with key stakeholders, including industry partners, governments, and international organizations and UN entities, to identify opportunities and develop collaborative initiatives that contribute to the project’s objectives. 
• Introduce and integrate innovative methods and tools into project design to enhance the credibility and impact of carbon projects. 
• Integrate and develop innovative methodologies, such as hydrogen-based carbon credits, into project designs to ensure scalability, replicability, and market credibility. 
• Establish a pipeline of carbon market projects by screening UNIDO portfolio and identifying high-potential opportunities for carbon credit generation. 

Programme Implementation

• Oversee the full lifecycle of project implementation, ensuring that all activities are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget. This includes managing project resources, preparing necessary inputs, and ensuring the quality of project outputs. 
• Monitor progress and performance of the project, conducting regular reviews and site visits to ensure alignment with project goals. 
• Identify potential risks to project implementation and develop mitigation strategies to address these challenges effectively. 

Resource Mobilization

• Cooperate with other relevant UNIDO Divisions to design and implement resource mobilization strategies aimed at securing the necessary funds for the project. 
• Design and implement strategies for securing financial resources through engagement with donor countries, development banks, and private sector partners, ensuring the sustainability and scalability of project activities. 
• Leverage revenues from carbon credits to establish a sustainable funding model for long-term project activities. 
• Support the development of funding proposals and project documentation for submission to donors and other stakeholders. 

Global Forum Function

• Design, plan, and organize UNIDO participation in global fora, conferences, seminars, and expert group meetings, related to carbon markets and climate change mitigation, and represent UNIDO at international events, such as COP, IETA Climate Summits, and other global carbon market forums, advocating for the needs of developing countries 
• Prepare technical papers, publications, and other materials for dissemination at external and internal forums, contributing to global knowledge on carbon markets. 
• Stay informed of the latest technical and economic developments in carbon markets and related areas by maintaining close contacts with specialized institutions, industry representatives, and through continuous learning. 

Advisory Services to Counterparts

• Provide technical advisory services to counterparts. This includes, among others: commenting on, appraising or revising draft project proposals submitted by requesting Governments; advising Governments on financing institutions, multilateral and bilateral organizations and other strategic partners; and provision of technical advice to strategic partners/donors. 
• Support Member States in aligning projects with Article 6 mechanisms, developing capacity, and navigating compliance frameworks. 
• Facilitate stakeholder dialogue through workshops, training, and peer-to-peer exchanges to share best practices and build capacities 

External Relations

• Support advocacy, communication and global forum activities related to the progamme/project and aimed at strengthening public relations, including the preparation of promotional materials, organization of media events, dissemination of information on the project activities through UNIDO/project website and network of UNIDO offices. 
• Performs other related duties and assignments as required. 

Core Values and Competencies

Core Values 

WE LIVE AND ACT WITH INTEGRITY: work honestly, openly and impartially. 

WE SHOW PROFESSIONALISM: work hard and competently in a committed and responsible manner. 

WE RESPECT DIVERSITY: work together effectively, respectfully and inclusively, regardless of our differences in culture and perspective. 

Key Competencies 

WE FOCUS ON PEOPLE: cooperate to fully reach our potential –and this is true for our colleagues as well as our clients. Emotional intelligence and receptiveness are vital parts of our UNIDO identity. 

WE FOCUS ON RESULTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES: focus on planning, organizing and managing our work effectively and efficiently. We are responsible and accountable for achieving our results and meeting our performance standards. This accountability does not end with our colleagues and supervisors, but we also owe it to those, we serve and who have trusted us to contribute to a better, safer and healthier world. 

WE COMMUNICATE AND EARN TRUST: communicate effectively with one another and build an environment of trust where we can all excel in our work. 

WE THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX AND INNOVATE: To stay relevant, we continuously improve, support innovation, share our knowledge and skills, and learn from one another. 

Minimum Organizational Requirements

Education

Advanced university degree (master’s or equivalent) in engineering, sciences, economics, business administration, international relations, or other relevant discipline with specialization in carbon markets, is required. 

Experience

A minimum of seven (7) years of relevant professional experience in management of technical cooperation and carbon projects, including some exposure at the international level, is required. Ability to research and analyse information, make linkages with the strategic vision of the Organization, and recommend solutions is required. Experience in leading a team. Ability to write in a clear and concise manner is required. Ability to work effectively in multi-cultural teams is desirable. Experience in evaluating the needs, conditions, and problems in developing countries, is desirable.  

Language Skills

Fluency in written and oral English is required.  Fluency or working knowledge of another official language of the United Nations is an asset. 

NOTE: 

Employees of UNIDO are expected at all times to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and respect for diversity, both at work and outside. Only persons who fully and unconditionally commit to these values should consider applying for jobs at UNIDO.

For further information on salaries, refer to the International Civil Service Commission website: https://icsc.un.org/

All applications must be submitted online through the Online Recruitment System. Correspondence will be undertaken only with candidates who are being considered at an advanced phase of the selection process. Selected candidate(s) may be required to disclose to the Director General the nature and scope of financial and other personal interests and assets in respect of themselves, their spouses and dependents, under the procedures established by the Director General.

Visit the UNIDO careers site for details on how to apply: https://careers.unido.org/ 

NOTE: The Director General retains the discretion to make an appointment to this post at a lower level.

Notice to applicants:
UNIDO does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process. If you have received a solicitation for the payment of a fee, please disregard it. Vacant positions within UNIDO are advertised on the official UNIDO website. Should you have any questions concerning persons or companies claiming to be recruiting on behalf of UNIDO and requesting payment of a fee, please contact: recruitment@unido.org