The Senior Mediation Adviser position offers a unique opportunity to provide specialized technical and process expertise in support of mediation and peace processes globally. This fully funded consultancy role, managed by UNOPS, deploys experts to advise UN envoys, political missions, and regional organizations on conflict mediation and good offices.
UNOPS, the United Nations Office for Project Services, manages the Standby Team of Senior Mediation Advisers (SBT) mechanism in partnership with the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA). The SBT provides rapidly deployable, short-term technical advice to support conflict prevention and mediation efforts worldwide.
Senior Mediation Adviser Benefits
- Full-time contract with UNOPS
- Opportunity to serve on a When-Actually-Employed / Retainer contract
- Rapid deployment to field assignments (usually 2 to 3 weeks)
- Remote support and research opportunities
- Contribute to UN peace and security efforts
Senior Mediation Adviser Eligibility Criteria
- Advanced University Degree (Master’s or equivalent) with 10 years of relevant experience; OR First Level Degree (Bachelor’s) with 12 years; OR technical/military degree with 14 years
- Relevant experience in leading, designing, or supporting mediation, negotiations, facilitation, or dialogue in conflict, post-conflict, or prevention settings
- Working knowledge of oral and written English is required
- Capacity to travel frequently and on short notice (within 72 hours)
- Ability to live and work under difficult conditions
Program Components
Key responsibilities include:
- Provide technical and procedural expertise in one or more mediation specializations.
- Participate in mediation, facilitation, and dialogue processes.
- Contribute to drafting relevant sections of peace agreements as appropriate.
- Provide technical advice to MSU/UNOPS clients, mediation teams, parties, and stakeholders through deployments, remote support, calls, online engagements, and written materials.
- Prepare reports on field deployments.
- Support the development of policy and guidance materials.
- Conduct research on emerging technologies, tools, and platforms relevant to mediation processes.
- Undertake extended field assignments, usually lasting 2–3 weeks.
How to Apply for Senior Mediation Adviser
- Submit application through the UNOPS careers portal before the closing date
- Application materials must be submitted in English; cover letter may be in French with English translation
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews (scheduled October 5-9, 2026)
- Selection may involve Occupational Personality Questionnaire, written test, job simulation, case study, and competency-based questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Senior Mediation Adviser position. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Senior Mediation Adviser role?
The Senior Mediation Adviser provides specialized technical and process expertise in mediation and peace processes. The role supports UN envoys, political missions, and regional organizations in conflict mediation and good offices worldwide.
Who is the employer for this position?
The employer is UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services). The incumbent reports to UNOPS while also substantively reporting to the Mediation Support Unit (MSU) of UNDPPA.
What are the education requirements?
An Advanced University Degree (Master’s or equivalent) with 10 years of relevant experience is required. A First Level University Degree (Bachelor’s) with 12 years, or a technical/military degree with 14 years, may be accepted in lieu.
What experience is required?
Relevant experience includes leading, designing, or supporting mediation, negotiations, facilitation, or dialogue in conflict, post-conflict, or prevention settings. Experience in mediation advice to chief mediators or conflict parties is also relevant.
What language skills are needed?
Working knowledge of oral and written English is required. Working knowledge of at least one other UN official language (especially Arabic or French) is highly desirable.
What is the contract type and duration?
The contract type is International ICA at level IICA-4/ICS-12. The duration is open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance.
What are the key responsibilities?
Key responsibilities include providing technical expertise on mediation process design, security arrangements, constitutional issues, power-sharing, gender inclusion, climate change, transitional justice, and digital technology in mediation.
What is the deadline to apply?
The posting end date is 03-Jul-2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Are there opportunities for retainer contracts?
Yes, candidates recommended after the interview process may be offered a When-Actually-Employed / Retainer contract. This allows intermittent service with a unit price per day worked.
How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted through the UNOPS careers portal. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Interviews are scheduled for October 5-9, 2026.
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