Chief Technical Adviser (CTA)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, established to set the global environmental agenda and promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and operates in multiple countries worldwide, focusing on various environmental issues. The organization is involved in numerous projects aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability and resilience against climate change.

Job Overview:
The Chief Technical Adviser (CTA) will play a crucial role in the successful execution of the GEF 8034 Zambia EbA Project, which aims to build the resilience of local communities in Zambia through the introduction of Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) into priority ecosystems, including wetlands and forests. The CTA will provide technical guidance, project management support, and capacity building to the project team, ensuring that project objectives are met efficiently and effectively. This position requires a deep understanding of climate change adaptation strategies and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and international partners. The CTA will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of project activities, ensuring high technical standards, and facilitating knowledge sharing and awareness-raising initiatives related to climate change and EbA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The CTA will undertake a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing overall technical and operational guidance to the Project Manager and Project Steering Committee to ensure project objectives are met.
• Advising on suitable ecosystem-based adaptation approaches and methodologies.
• Conducting quality assurance and technical reviews of project outputs, including inception reports and training materials.
• Assisting in planning project activities and adjusting the project Results Framework and Work Plan as necessary.
• Drafting and reviewing terms of reference for technical consultancies and assisting in the recruitment process.
• Monitoring the technical quality of project monitoring and evaluation systems.
• Supporting the Project Manager in preparing annual Project Implementation Reviews and conducting project evaluations.
• Mentoring the project team in administrative and financial reporting and liaising with project partners and donor organizations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in sustainable development, international development, environmental sciences, development studies, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level degree with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. A minimum of 10 years of professional experience is required, with at least four years related to climate change adaptation projects, preferably in Zambia or southern Africa. Candidates should demonstrate experience in institutional strengthening, capacity-building, and leading multidisciplinary teams. Familiarity with project management, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation, as well as knowledge of gender mainstreaming and GEF environmental and social safeguards, is essential.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field such as sustainable development, international development, environmental sciences, or development studies is required. A first-level degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying experience. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate change adaptation and ecosystem-based approaches.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience, with at least four years specifically related to the implementation of climate change adaptation projects. Experience in applying ecosystem-based adaptation approaches in Zambia or southern Africa is highly desirable. Demonstrated work experience in managing and coordinating large, multidisciplinary teams and projects funded by bilateral or multilateral organizations is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of local languages spoken in Central and/or northern Zambia is required, as it will facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is for a national/Zambian expert and is expected to last for 24 months. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and applicants should be cautious of any requests for personal banking information.