IMEO Methane Specialist, Turkmenistan and Central Asia

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. Its International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) is a data-driven initiative focused on reducing methane emissions. IMEO provides data to support emissions reductions aligned with the Paris Agreement and manages the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS). This role supports IMEO's work in Turkmenistan and Central Asia.

Job Purpose

This consultant role supports UNEP's International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) in Turkmenistan and the broader Central Asian region. The primary purpose is to implement UNEP's contribution to the UN Joint Programme for Methane Emissions in Turkmenistan and to provide technical engagement with government and National Oil Company (NOC) officials. The role involves developing strategies, coordinating partners, and facilitating methane emissions reduction efforts. By leveraging data from satellites and other sources, the consultant will help translate evidence into actionable methane reduction strategies, contributing to global climate change mitigation goals and supporting the Paris Agreement objectives. The position reports to the MARS Programme Manager.

Responsibilities

The Methane Specialist will provide technical input and feedback for the UN Joint Programme for Methane Emissions in Turkmenistan. Key duties include developing and maintaining contact lists for government bodies and NOCs across Central Asia, and establishing a coordinated approach for partner engagement. The role involves notifying government and company stakeholders of detected methane emissions events in Central Asia and ensuring follow-up actions are taken. The specialist will collect and synthesize stakeholder feedback on emissions events and mitigation efforts. Additionally, the role requires coordinating technical follow-up with IMEO partners and engaging relevant contacts to encourage participation in the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0). Regular updates on engagement status and progress in Turkmenistan and the region will be provided to IMEO management.

Work Experience

A minimum of six years of relevant professional experience is required, preferably working in government or industry within Turkmenistan. Experience in other Central Asian countries is desirable. Direct experience engaging with government officials and national oil companies on methane emissions is also preferred, as is experience with satellite-based methane monitoring.

Skills

Strong coordination and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple concurrent workstreams and competing priorities; technical engagement with government and NOC officials; partner coordination; communication and reporting; experience with methane emissions monitoring and reduction strategies.

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