UNIDO Project Associate Job 2026: Circular Economy and Sustainable Development Career in Vienna, Austria
Overview
The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) is recruiting a Project Associate in Vienna, Austria. The post is graded ISA-P1 and runs for six months under a temporary project personnel appointment. It supports a project called Climate and Biodiversity Action through Circular Economy Solutions (CB-ACES), which is funded by the German Government's International Climate Initiative. The project aims to lower harmful effects on climate and biodiversity by changing selected sectors and value chains in Brazil, Mexico and South Africa, with a focus on socially just circular economy approaches.
The associate works under the Project Manager and helps with the administrative, analytical and technical coordination needed to deliver the project.
What you get
The contract lasts six months and is tied to this specific project, with no expectation of renewal. The role offers exposure to international cooperation, project monitoring, stakeholder engagement and environmental development work. Salary details are set out in the full vacancy documentation.
Who can apply
This is a professional-level post rather than an entry-level one. Applicants need an advanced university degree, such as a master's or equivalent, in engineering, sciences, economics, business administration, international relations or a related field. They also need at least one year of professional experience coordinating development or technical cooperation programmes and projects, plus experience in circular economy or a related area.
Experience in climate change mitigation, biodiversity protection, industrial sustainability and resource efficiency is desirable, as is work with international project consortia, government bodies, private companies and civil society. Familiarity with monitoring and evaluation, financial administration, enterprise resource planning systems and gender-responsive approaches also helps. Fluent written and spoken English is required, and Portuguese or Spanish is desirable.
Requirements
Duties include compiling background information on economic and social factors for assigned sectors or countries, verifying data, preparing tables and charts, and reviewing project documents. The associate also helps monitor implementation, pulling information on outputs, outcomes, indicators and risks from UNIDO's project management systems, and maintains records and prepares reports. Arranging briefings, tours and activities for visitors, missions and fellowship holders is part of the job as well. Strong organizational and writing skills are important.
How to apply
Applications go through UNIDO's online recruitment system, using a CV that highlights project coordination, research, monitoring and reporting experience along with any circular economy or climate work. Submit before the stated deadline.