Regional Technical Specialist (Climate Change Adaptation)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global organization that focuses on sustainable development and the realization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, employing over 17,000 staff members. The organization aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development, providing expert advice, training, and support to developing countries. UNDP's work is characterized by its commitment to integrating local knowledge with global perspectives, ensuring that development efforts are both effective and inclusive. The organization is structured into various bureaus, including the Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS), which develops policies and guidance to support UNDP's strategic goals, particularly in crisis response and risk management.

Job Overview:
The Regional Technical Specialist (RTS) for Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) is a pivotal role within the UNDP Climate Hub, responsible for delivering high-quality technical policy, programming, implementation support, and oversight to UNDP country offices in the Africa region. The RTS will engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and private sector partners, to enhance capacities for climate change adaptation. This position requires a strategic approach to developing and implementing climate adaptation initiatives that align with national priorities and the SDG agenda. The RTS will also contribute to the establishment of strategic partnerships and resource mobilization efforts, ensuring that UNDP's climate adaptation projects are effectively funded and executed. The role demands a proactive engagement in policy dialogue and advocacy, as well as a commitment to integrating innovative solutions into climate programming.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Regional Technical Specialist (RTS) include providing second-level oversight and quality assurance for programming initiatives, ensuring compliance with fund and donor requirements. The RTS will lead the development of strategic policy and technical guidance for UNDP Country Offices, ensuring alignment with national priorities. Specific responsibilities include:

• Establishing and maintaining strategic partnerships with stakeholders in the region, including agencies, donors, and NGOs.
• Contributing to the identification and development of new programming opportunities in climate change adaptation.
• Providing technical support for project design and implementation, ensuring adherence to UNDP's project origination standards.
• Conducting quality assurance checks on project components, including budgets and procurement plans.
• Supporting resource mobilization efforts by providing technical guidance for project proposals submitted to donors.
• Monitoring portfolio performance and ensuring timely corrective actions are taken when necessary.
• Facilitating learning and knowledge management by capturing lessons learned and promoting best practices across the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Environmental Economics, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Environmental Law, Natural Resources Management, Sustainable Development, Climate Change Adaptation/Mitigation, or a closely related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. The position requires a minimum of 7 years of experience (9 years with a bachelor’s degree) working with developing countries on climate change adaptation. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience in technical domains relevant to climate change adaptation, project development, and management, as well as substantive experience in policy development processes associated with environmental and sustainable development issues.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as Environmental Economics, Environmental Law, Natural Resources Management, Sustainable Development, Climate Change Adaptation/Mitigation, or International Development with a specialization in Climate Change Adaptation. A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in these areas, combined with additional qualifying experience, will also be considered.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience for candidates with a master’s degree, or 9 years for those with a bachelor’s degree. Candidates should have substantial experience in climate change adaptation, including project development and management, as well as experience in policy development processes related to environmental and sustainable development issues. Demonstrable experience in resource mobilization and strategic partnership development is highly desirable, particularly in the context of adaptation projects funded by vertical funds such as the Green Climate Fund.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. A good command of Portuguese and/or another UN official language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders across the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and the incumbent will report to the Senior Regional Technical Advisor - CCA and the Environment Regional Team Leader. The role involves frequent travel to support country offices in the region, and the incumbent must complete the BSAFE course prior to travel. UNDP emphasizes equal opportunity and diversity in its hiring practices, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their background. The organization does not charge fees during the recruitment process and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace.