Position Title: Associate Communication Officer (Natural Sciences)
Organization: UNESCO
Sector: Natural Sciences Sector (SC)
Duty Station: Paris, France
Contract Duration: One (1) Year, Renewable Subject to Performance and Funding Availability
Annual Starting Salary: Approximately EUR 87,824
Application Deadline: 15 July 2026 (Midnight Paris Time)
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About UNESCO
UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, dedicated to building peace through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.
The organization promotes sustainable development, cultural diversity, scientific advancement, and freedom of expression while fostering international collaboration to address global challenges.
UNESCO’s core values include:
- Commitment to the Organization
- Integrity
- Respect for Diversity
- Professionalism
About the Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme
The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme is UNESCO’s intergovernmental scientific initiative dedicated to improving the relationship between people and nature.
The programme combines natural and social sciences to advance sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and ecosystem protection while supporting livelihoods and community wellbeing.
Through partnerships, projects, prizes, and international collaborations, the MAB Programme develops innovative solutions to environmental and socio-economic challenges worldwide.
Position Overview
UNESCO is seeking an Associate Communication Officer to support communication, advocacy, outreach, and visibility efforts for the MAB Programme’s extrabudgetary projects and initiatives.
Reporting to the Director of the Division of Ecological and Earth Sciences and working closely with the Chief of Section for MAB Networking and Capacity Building, the successful candidate will help design and implement communication strategies that enhance awareness, engagement, partnership development, and resource mobilization efforts.
The role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to global biodiversity, climate change, and sustainability initiatives while working in a multicultural and international environment.
Key Responsibilities
Communication Strategy and Campaign Development
- Support the design, implementation, and adaptation of communication and advocacy strategies.
- Contribute to public awareness campaigns promoting UNESCO’s environmental and sustainability initiatives.
- Enhance the visibility of projects, programmes, and international prizes.
- Support resource mobilization through strategic communications.
Content Creation and Editorial Development
- Produce high-quality communication materials across multiple formats.
- Draft and edit:
- News articles
- Reports
- Brochures
- Briefing notes
- Information materials
- Project publications
- Create engaging content for websites, social media channels, and mobile applications.
- Translate complex environmental and socio-economic topics into accessible content for diverse audiences.
Digital Communications
- Manage and update digital communication platforms.
- Develop content for social media campaigns and online engagement initiatives.
- Support website management and digital outreach activities.
- Produce multimedia content including:
- Videos
- Visual graphics
- Infographics
- Digital storytelling materials
Monitoring and Evaluation
- Track communication performance indicators and project visibility metrics.
- Monitor and evaluate communication activities and campaigns.
- Prepare analytical reports highlighting outcomes, achievements, and lessons learned.
- Assess communication effectiveness and recommend improvements.
Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement
- Maintain communication networks and partnerships.
- Collaborate with communication officers and programme specialists at UNESCO Headquarters and Field Offices.
- Participate in inter-agency communication forums.
- Strengthen relationships with:
- UN agencies
- Government institutions
- Programme partners
- International organizations
- External stakeholders
Event and Media Promotion
- Promote project initiatives through media channels and communication platforms.
- Support communications at conferences, workshops, and international events.
- Facilitate information sharing and knowledge exchange among stakeholders.
Required Qualifications
Education
Applicants must possess:
- An Advanced University Degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) in:
- Communication
- Journalism
- Public Relations
- Or another relevant field
Professional Experience
Candidates must have:
- At least two (2) years of relevant professional experience in communication and advocacy.
- At least one (1) year of experience gained at the international level is preferred.
Required Skills and Competencies
Communication and Content Development
- Strong writing, editing, and analytical skills.
- Ability to communicate complex socio-environmental issues effectively.
- Experience adapting messages for different audiences and stakeholders.
- Excellent presentation and reporting abilities.
Digital Communication Skills
- Experience managing websites and social media platforms.
- Strong knowledge of:
- Drupal 8
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Experience creating:
- Videos
- Graphics
- Visual content
- Infographics
- Ability to develop engaging digital communication campaigns.
Professional Competencies
- Strong project planning and organizational skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and cross-cultural communication abilities.
- Ability to work effectively in multicultural teams.
- Experience supporting communication strategies and campaigns.
- Strong partnership-building and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Capacity to maintain productive working relationships with programme partners and government authorities.
Language Requirements
Required
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Excellent written and spoken French or Spanish.
- Good working knowledge of the other language (French or Spanish).
Desirable
- Knowledge of another UNESCO official language:
- Arabic
- Chinese
- Russian
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with the following will have an advantage:
- Experience with UNESCO, United Nations agencies, or other international organizations.
- Knowledge of biodiversity, conservation, and environmental programmes.
- Familiarity with ethical and inclusive communication standards.
- Experience supporting international advocacy and outreach initiatives.
Benefits and Entitlements
UNESCO offers a comprehensive international benefits package, which may include:
- Competitive international salary
- Approximately EUR 87,824 annual starting salary
- 30 days annual leave
- Medical insurance
- Pension plan
- Family-related allowances (where applicable)
- Professional development opportunities
- International career growth prospects
Why Join UNESCO?
This position offers an opportunity to contribute directly to global sustainability, biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and environmental awareness initiatives.
You will work alongside international experts, policymakers, scientists, and communication professionals while supporting UNESCO’s efforts to advance sustainable development worldwide.
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Application Process
Interested candidates must complete the online application through the UNESCO Careers Portal before the application deadline.
The recruitment process may include:
- Written assessments
- Pre-recorded video interviews
- Panel interviews
- Reference checks
Shortlisted candidates may also be considered for future UNESCO talent pools.
Additional Information
UNESCO is committed to diversity, inclusion, gender equality, and equitable geographical representation.
Applications from women, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, minority groups, and candidates from underrepresented Member States are strongly encouraged.
UNESCO maintains a zero-tolerance policy against harassment, discrimination, and misconduct.
The organization does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
Application Deadline: 15 July 2026 (Midnight Paris Time)
