Senior Mediation Adviser (Multiple Positions)

About the role

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is seeking senior mediation advisers to join its Standby Team (SBT) mechanism. These consultants will provide short‑term, targeted technical advice to UN envoys, political and peacekeeping missions, and partner organisations engaged in conflict prevention and mediation worldwide.

Key responsibilities

• Design, facilitate and advise on mediation, political or peace processes at national, sub‑national or local levels.
• Provide rapid, on‑the‑ground technical support to UN officials and key stakeholders under defined Terms of Reference.
• Integrate gender considerations into all mediation activities.
• Collaborate with the DPPA Mediation Support Unit to determine deployment needs and ensure alignment with the SBT mechanism.
• Maintain readiness for short‑notice deployments and adhere to contractual exclusivity requirements.

Required profile

• Extensive experience leading or advising on mediation, political or peace processes.
• Strong analytical capacity and deep understanding of conflict mediation dynamics.
• Proven ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and operate in dynamic environments.
• Demonstrated competence in mainstreaming gender into mediation work.

Required skills

What we offer

• Consultancy contracts with the possibility of retainer or When‑Actually‑Employed arrangements.
• Opportunities to work alongside UN envoys and international peacebuilding actors.
• Exposure to a wide range of conflict settings and political processes worldwide.