Marine Environmental Engineer Job Vacancy in Baardheere, Somalia – Marine Conservation

Job Description

Position:Marine Environmental Engineer

Company:UNICEF

Location:Baardheere, Somalia

Experience:5+ years

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Marine Science or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Marine Conservation

Department:Environmental Engineering

Salary:5,000,000 – 8,000,000 SSP per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, is a globally recognized organization dedicated to safeguarding the rights and well‑being of children worldwide. Operating in over 190 countries and territories, UNICEF has a strong presence in Somalia, delivering life‑saving programs in health, nutrition, education, water, sanitation, and child protection. The agency works closely with the Somali government, local NGOs, and community leaders to create sustainable solutions that improve the lives of the most vulnerable children and families. As part of its commitment to environmental stewardship, UNICEF integrates climate‑resilient strategies into its humanitarian projects, recognizing that healthy marine ecosystems are essential for food security, livelihoods, and the overall health of coastal communities. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to UNICEF’s mission while advancing marine conservation efforts in Somalia.

Job Overview

The Marine Environmental Engineer will lead technical assessments, design, and implementation of marine conservation projects that support UNICEF’s broader objectives of child health, nutrition, and community resilience. Working from the Baardheere office, the engineer will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, local authorities, and international partners to monitor coastal ecosystems, develop mitigation strategies for pollution, and promote sustainable fishing practices. This position plays a pivotal role in ensuring that marine resources are protected, thereby securing food sources and livelihoods for coastal families. For more information about UNICEF’s work in Somalia, visit https://somaliajobsearch.com/.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive marine environmental impact assessments for UNICEF‑funded projects.
• Develop and implement coastal habitat restoration plans, including mangrove reforestation and coral reef protection.
• Monitor water quality, sedimentation, and biodiversity indicators using GIS, remote sensing, and field sampling techniques.
• Collaborate with local fisheries, NGOs, and government agencies to promote sustainable fishing practices and reduce by‑catch.
• Prepare technical reports, policy briefs, and stakeholder presentations that align with UNICEF’s strategic goals.
• Provide technical guidance and capacity‑building workshops for community members and local partners.
• Ensure compliance with national environmental regulations and international best practices.
• Support grant proposals and donor reporting related to marine conservation initiatives.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of marine ecology, coastal engineering, and environmental management.
• Proficiency in GIS, remote sensing software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and data analysis tools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; knowledge of Somali is highly advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and lead multidisciplinary teams in challenging field conditions.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement, community outreach, and capacity‑building.
• Familiarity with international environmental standards such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Education

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering, Marine Science, Oceanography, or a closely related discipline is required. Advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.) are preferred and will be considered an asset, especially if focused on marine conservation, climate adaptation, or sustainable resource management.

Experience

Candidates must have at least five years of professional experience in marine environmental engineering, coastal management, or related fields. Experience working with international NGOs, UN agencies, or government bodies in developing countries, particularly in East Africa, will be highly valued. Demonstrated success in leading field projects, securing funding, and delivering measurable environmental outcomes is essential.

Salary

The successful candidate will receive a competitive monthly salary ranging from 5,000,000 to 8,000,000 Somali Shillings (SSP), commensurate with experience and qualifications. UNICEF also provides a comprehensive benefits package, performance‑based incentives, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage for the employee and eligible dependents.
• Retirement savings plan aligned with UNICEF’s global policies.
• Paid annual leave, sick leave, and humanitarian leave.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Baardheere.
• Access to UNICEF’s global training resources and mentorship programs.

Training

• Orientation program covering UNICEF’s mission, policies, and operational procedures.
• Technical workshops on marine GIS, environmental monitoring, and climate‑resilient project design.
• Leadership and project management courses offered through UNICEF’s Learning Hub.
• Language training opportunities, including Somali and Arabic, to enhance community engagement.

Working Environment

The role is based in Baardheere, a coastal town that serves as a gateway to several marine habitats critical for Somalia’s fisheries. The work environment combines office‑based analysis with regular field trips to coastal sites, mangrove forests, and fishing villages. Employees benefit from a collaborative, multicultural team that values innovation, integrity, and impact. UNICEF promotes a safe, inclusive, and supportive workplace where staff are encouraged to share ideas and drive change.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through the UNICEF Careers portal, attaching a detailed CV and a cover letter that highlights relevant experience and motivation for the role. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for virtual interviews followed by a field‑based assessment. Please ensure all documents are uploaded in PDF format.

Equal Opportunity Statement

UNICEF is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or age. We encourage qualified women and under‑represented groups to apply, reinforcing our dedication to gender equality and empowerment across all levels of the organization.