Climate mitigation modelling consultant
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority within the UN system. The NDC Act & Invest project, funded by the International Climate Initiative and the NDC Partnership's Partnership Action Fund, aims to help countries enhance their climate ambition and translate Nationally Determined Contributions into actionable plans. This role supports the Mitigation Branch in Paris.
Job Purpose
This role provides crucial technical modelling support for UNEP's PAF and NDC Act & Invest projects, focusing on Long-Term Low-Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS) and sectoral mitigation modelling in key sectors like energy and transport. The consultant will develop and review baseline and mitigation scenarios, quantify emission reductions, and assess mitigation potential and costs. The purpose is to ensure robust, transparent, and consistent modelling that underpins credible long-term strategies and NDC implementation plans, ultimately accelerating progress towards the 1.5°C goal and enhancing global resilience. The work will involve close collaboration with national counterparts and project teams to translate modelling outputs into policy-relevant information for investment planning.
Responsibilities
Develop and maintain a modelling workplan, including an inventory of models, data sources, assumptions, and a quality-assurance approach. Review and document baseline and mitigation scenarios for LT-LEDS in partner countries, ensuring alignment with national GHG inventories and NDC targets. Conduct sectoral mitigation modelling for energy, transport, and other priority sectors, quantifying emission projections, mitigation potential, and indicative costs. Prepare technical notes, guidance, and training materials for national counterparts and project teams. Review technical aspects of project proposals and pipelines developed by partner countries, providing constructive feedback on methodologies and assumptions. Ensure methodological consistency across country modelling exercises and support the translation of modelling results into actionable policy recommendations and investment plans.
Work Experience
Requires a minimum of 8 years of progressive professional experience in climate change mitigation modelling, energy system modelling, or GHG emission scenario analysis. Experience with recognized modelling tools, sectoral mitigation analysis, linking scenarios to costing and investment needs, and documenting/training on modelling approaches is essential.
Skills
Advanced quantitative modelling and scenario analysis skills. Strong analytical ability with attention to data quality and transparency. Understanding of climate mitigation policy, NDCs, and long-term strategies. Strong technical writing skills. Ability to review and provide feedback on modelling work. Capacity to manage multiple country processes and meet deadlines. Effective communication of complex modelling results to diverse audiences.