location_on Lisboa, Portugal
schedule 4 year fixed-term contract
The Ocean Policy & Stakeholders' Engagement Programme is growing to meet the demands of an expanding project portfolio. We are looking for a Policy Officer to join the team and support delivery across three new projects. You will work closely with the Head of Ocean Policy & Stakeholders' Engagement and the programme's Social Scientist and Policy Expert, providing research, analytical and coordination support across a fast- moving portfolio that spans ocean governance, blue economy development and international policy.
This role sits at the intersection of ocean governance, blue economy development and international policy. You will help track and interpret developments in multilateral processes (including Ocean Pact, EU Green Deal, UNCLOS, BBNJ, CBD), support engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, and help translate complex technical and scientific evidence into clear, actionable material.
Support research, evidence synthesis and analysis of ocean governance, blue economy and policy issues across BlueMissionAA2030, Isla Bonita, GenBlue and other projects.
Draft and contribute to policy briefs, reports, presentations and stakeholder communications in English.
Support engagement with stakeholders across governments, industry and civil society, including preparation for meetings, workshops and events.
Monitor and summarise developments in relevant international policy and legal frameworks (e.g. Ocean Pact, BBNJ, CBD) and regional governance processes.
Lead project coordination tasks, including monitoring, evaluation and (Technical & Financial) reporting requirements.
Liaise with scientific colleagues to help translate technical and scientific findings into policy-relevant outputs.
Provide general administrative and logistical support to the Ocean Policy Group as needed.
Essential requirements
A relevant degree (MSc, PhD preferred) in international relations, marine/environmental policy, law, political science or a related field.
Experience with project management, monitoring and evaluation, and demonstrable experience in R&I EU Funded projects, especially Horizon Europe.
Strong research, analytical and writing skills, with the ability to synthesise complex information clearly.
Fluency in written and spoken English; Portuguese, French, and/or Spanish would be an added value.
Experience with stakeholder co-design methodologies and participatory approaches is a must.
Experience supporting multilateral, diplomatic or multi-stakeholder processes.
Ability to communicate complex issues to non-technical and diverse audiences.
Strong organisational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks and deadlines, and work independently.
Must be eligible to work in Portugal.
Desirable
Familiarity with international ocean laws and treaties (UNCLOS, BBNJ Agreement, CBD) or regional seas conventions.
A good understanding of ocean governance and blue economy.
Understanding of EU/Atlantic governance structures and decision-making processes (e.g. OSPAR, EU Atlantic Strategy and All-Atlantic Alliance).
Basic scientific literacy in oceanography or marine ecology, sufficient to engage credibly with scientists.
What we offer
The opportunity to work on high-profile international ocean policy projects within a multidisciplinary team based in Lisbon and Terceira.
A salary commensurate with your experience and expertise.
One remote day per week.
Professional development opportunities — training.
About AIR Centre
AIR Centre is an international research organisation working at the intersection of ocean, climate and space science, with a strong focus on generating evidence-based solutions for sustainable development across the Atlantic region. Its Ocean Policy Group works to connect scientific research with international ocean governance, translating evidence into policy recommendations for governments, industry and civil society.
Salary: Gross monthly salary 2460-3500€ depending on experience, plus daily meal allowance and health insurance
Reports to: Head of Ocean Policy & Stakeholder Engagement
Start date: As soon as possible
Please send your CV and a cover letter by 4th September 2026, quoting 'Policy Officer' in the subject line.
Contact: recruitment@aircentre.org
Application Deadline: September 04, 2026