Consultant for Graphic Novel Development and Illustration Mangres Project
JOB DETAILS
Type of contract : Consultant Contract
Level : Level 2 - Middle
Hiring Unit : Natural Sciences Sector (SC)
Duty Station : Santiago
Work location : Remote
Duration of contract : 6 months
Hiring open to : External candidates
Application deadline (Midnight UTC−3 Time) : 01/06/2026
UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
UNESCO invites you to submit in writing consulting proposals for the work assignment described in the following section. For the preparation of this proposal, the elements to be considered are detailed below. In addition to completing the online application (mandatory), you must submit:
1. A technical proposal consisting of:
A detailed and updated curriculum vitae; and
B. An approach and methodology for the task and comments on the Terms of Reference, if any.
2. A financial proposal, expressed in USD, considering the monthly and total consultancy fees.
UNESCO places great emphasis on ensuring that the objectives of the work assignment, as described in the Terms of Reference, are met. Accordingly, in evaluating the proposals for the assignment, attention will focus first and foremost on the technical elements. From those proposals deemed suitable in terms of the criteria in the Terms of Reference, UNESCO shall select the proposal that offers the Organization best value for money.
Your proposal must be sent by e-mail to roster.santiago@unesco.org no later than (18:00 on 1st june, 2026).
Two separate files must be sent, one for the technical proposal and one for the financial proposal. Please quote in the subject line of the email the following: " Ref:STG/2026/CIC/07 Illustrator for the MangRes Project. You must take into account these conditions to apply, otherwise the proposals will not be considered. It is the responsibility of each individual to ensure that their proposal is received by the deadline.
Thank you for your interest in this UNESCO consulting opportunity; and we look forward to receiving your proposal.
OVERVIEW
In the framework of the extra-budgetary project "Mangrove Restoration as a Nature-Based Solution in Biosphere Reserves in Latin America" (MangRes Project), under the overall supervision of the Director of Ecological and Earth Sciences and the specific supervision of the Programme Specialist in charge of the MangRes Project, the consultant is requested to:
- Update the bookcover for the first volume of the MangRes graphic novel ‘Visiones del Manglar’, according to UNESCO Publications Guidelines.
- Develop three chapters for the second volume of the MangRes graphic novel ‘Visiones del Manglar’. Format : A4, 20 pages maximum per chapter.
- Create illustrations for the 2nd and 3rd chapters, ensuring alignment with the project's messaging and themes.
- Depict Latin American and the Caribbean mangrove species, landscapes, and environments.
- Ensure scientific accuracy and engage with educational and environmental awareness-raising goals.
- Create the layout and integrate approved text into the final design.
- Deliver the finalized illustrations for the 2nd and 3rd chapters for a final review, addressing all feedback from UNESCO.
- Provide print-ready files and digital files for web (screen) to UNESCO.
- Define a cohesive color palette, character design, and artistic technique suitable for the project.
- The contractor shall comply with UNESCO Publications Guidelines, UNESCO Open Access Policy, UNESCO visual identity and branding requirements, and all editorial, technical and copyright instructions provided by UNESCO. The contractor shall sign the applicable Author Contract and Grant of Rights, granting UNESCO the rights required to reproduce, publish, translate, adapt, distribute, archive and disseminate the work, in whole or in part, in all languages, formats and media, including print, digital, web, educational and promotional uses. No royalties shall be payable by UNESCO.
- The contractor shall not use generative artificial intelligence tools to create, modify or complete any illustrations, characters, backgrounds, layouts, covers or visual elements for this publication. All visual material must be original or based only on references approved by UNESCO. The contractor shall provide a list of all visual references used and shall ensure that no third-party material is incorporated without prior written authorization and appropriate rights clearance.
Long Description
1.1 Preparing three preliminary story proposals to guide the creative direction of Volume II.
1.2 Develop a story line and narrative structure for the three chapters of the graphic novel, including schematic version of the actions, sequences, and contents of each chapter.
1.3 Provide the illustrated mock-ups of the three chapters, including integration of narrative text and sketch-level artworks
2. Deliver the final illustrations of the three chapters for a final review, ensuring all feedback from UNESCO is addressed.
Provide fully finalized full-colour illustrations, integrating all comments and observations from the UNESCO.
Incorporate approved text into the final design.
Deliver print-ready files to UNESCO.
3. Additional Requirements
All final documents must be delivered as print-ready PDFs and include source files. UNESCO adheres to Open Access Policy / Creative Commons license and will always credit the designer for their work
COMPETENCIES - Core (C) & Managerial (M)
- Communication (C)
- Accountability (C)
- Innovation (C)
- Knowlegde sharing and continuous improvement (C)
- Planning and organizing (C)
- Results focus (C)
- Teamwork (C)
For detailed information, please consult the UNESCO Competency Framework.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION
Technical degree in Graphic design, Illustration, visual arts, animation, or a related field.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in illustration, graphic novel, comic production or visual storytelling.
Experience in illustration for the promotion and protection of biodiversity.
Demostrated experience delivering print ready files for professional publication.
Previous experience working with international organizations or UN agencies is desirable.
Long Description
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES
Advanced proficiency in digital illustration and design software including: adobe illustrator and adobe Photoshop.
Understanding of copyright, intellectual property rights and image licensing requeriments.
Abilty to collaborate effectivly with multidisciplinary teams.
Ability to prepare high-resolution, print ready files in multiple formats.
SELECTION AND RECRUITMENT PROCESS
Please note that all candidates must complete an on-line application and provide complete and accurate information, by the above deadline.
To apply, please visit the UNESCO Careers website. No modifications can be made to the application once submitted.
The process may include pre-recorded video interviews and/or written assessments, interviews with a Panel, as well as reference checks. In addition, candidates may be requested to provide additional information which may be pertinent to the position’s qualifications.
Please note that all candidates, whether selected or not, will be informed of the outcome of their application in due course.
Short-listed candidates may also be added to Talent Pools; subject to their consent (i.e. Data Privacy Statement).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- UNESCO recalls that paramount consideration in the appointment of personnel shall be the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, technical competence and integrity.
- UNESCO applies a zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment.
- lndividuals from minority groups and indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply.
- All applications will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.
- The statutory retirement age at UNESCO is 65 years.
- UNESCO does not charge a fee at any stage of the hiring process.