The United Nations (UN) has officially announced a large‑scale recruitment drive for consultancy positions for 2026, opening doors for professionals, specialists, and early‑career experts from around the world. With more than 160 consultancy vacancies currently available across multiple UN agencies, this opportunity allows skilled individuals to contribute directly to global development, peacebuilding, sustainability, and innovation initiatives.
UN consultancy roles are project‑based and time‑bound, designed to support specific programmes, policies, and operational needs. These roles play a vital part in the UN’s mission by bringing in external expertise to address complex international challenges at global, regional, and national levels.
For 2026, consultancy opportunities are available across Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and Latin America, highlighting the UN’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and global participation.
Why Choose a United Nations Consultancy Role?
UN consultancies are highly competitive and respected worldwide. They offer professionals the chance to work with leading experts, international policymakers, and multicultural teams while maintaining flexibility in contract duration and location.
Key benefits include exposure to international decision‑making processes, competitive remuneration aligned with UN standards, and the opportunity to build strong professional credibility. Many consultants later transition into long‑term international roles, making consultancy positions an excellent career gateway.
Featured United Nations Consultancy Vacancies for 2026
Below are some highlighted UN consultancy positions that showcase the diversity of roles, locations, and areas of expertise.
1. Analista en Innovación y Tecnologías, Mexico City
Agency: UN‑Habitat
Job ID: 269239
Deadline: 18 December 2025
This role supports digital transformation, innovative city initiatives, and data‑driven urban planning in Latin America.
2. Disarmament Programmes Coordinator Kathmandu
Agency: Office for Disarmament Affairs
Job ID: 268852
Deadline: 18 December 2025
Ideal for professionals with experience in peacebuilding, arms control, and international security.
3. National Consultant SheTrades Outlook (Data Collection), Geneva
Agency: International Trade Centre
Job ID: 269208
Deadline: 22 December 2025
Focuses on gender‑responsive trade policy, data analysis, and women’s economic empowerment.
4. Individual Contractor (ICT Systems), Bangkok
Agency: UN ESCAP
Job ID: 260534
Deadline: 19 December 2025
Suitable for IT professionals with experience in information systems, digital platforms, and technical support.
5. Data Specialist, Nairobi
Agency: UN‑Habitat
Job ID: 268941
Deadline: 22 December 2025
Supports urban data analysis, monitoring frameworks, and evidence‑based policymaking in Africa.
6. Coordinador(a) en Gestión de Conocimiento, Mexico City
Agency: UN‑Habitat
Job ID: 269238
Deadline: 18 December 2025
Focuses on knowledge management, documentation, and institutional learning systems.
7. IDRA Project Management, Junior Consultant, Bonn
Agency: UNCCD
Job ID: 269218
Deadline: 26 December 2025
A junior consultancy for early‑career professionals interested in climate action and environmental governance.
8. Legal Services Consultant, New York
Agency: Office of Administration of Justice
Job ID: 268932
Deadline: 3 January 2026
Supports legal research, advisory services, and case management within the UN justice system.
9. Maritime Law Enforcement Investigation Expert, Dakar
Agency: UNODC
Job ID: 269100
Deadline: 23 December 2025
Focuses on maritime security, counter‑narcotics operations, and law enforcement capacity building.
10. CCAC AQMx Legal Framework & Policy Design Expert, Paris
Agency: UNEP
Job ID: 269128
Deadline: 3 January 2026
Ideal for legal and policy experts working on air quality management and climate action.
Who Should Apply?
UN consultancy jobs are suitable for:
- Mid‑level and senior professionals with specialized expertise
- Early‑career candidates applying for junior consultancies
- Academics and researchers seeking applied policy experience
- Professionals transitioning into international development careers
General Requirements
While criteria vary by role, most consultancies require:
- A relevant university degree
- Proven professional experience in the field
- Strong analytical, drafting, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
- Fluency in English (additional UN languages are an asset)
Tips for a Successful UN Consultancy Application
- Carefully tailor your CV and cover letter to the Terms of Reference (ToR)
- Highlight measurable achievements from previous assignments
- Demonstrate prior UN or international experience, if available
- Apply early, as consultancies may close before deadlines
- Keep your UN Careers profile complete and up to date
How to Apply, Official UN Application Link
All United Nations consultancy vacancies must be submitted through the official UN Careers portal:
