Consultant for Nature Based Solutions (NbS)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP works with national and local authorities, civil society, other UN organizations, research institutions, and the private sector to catalyze the efficient use of the region’s natural assets and reduce the degradation of the environment. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees, focusing on various environmental issues including climate change, ecosystem management, and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in strengthening Somalia’s knowledge base and practice on Nature Based Solutions (NbS) by consolidating existing initiatives and providing practical advisory support to FAO, IOM, WVI, Somali partners, and contributing to harmonized consortium guidelines. The position aims to improve understanding of NbS opportunities for resilience and water management, provide clearer guidance for relocation and riverine interventions, and develop a practical framework endorsed by Somali authorities to inform future programming. The consultant will report to the head of the Climate security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Unit with direct supervision by the JOSP Project Manager. The expected duration of the consultancy is four months, from November to March, and the work will be home-based.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at enhancing the use of NbS for natural resources management and climate resilience in Somalia. Key duties include reviewing and cataloguing NbS appropriate for Somalia and Hirshabelle state, providing technical advice to partners, supporting the harmonization of consortium approaches, and developing guidelines. The consultant will also develop and present a NbS Rehabilitation Advisory Framework for endorsement by the government. Outputs will include a catalogue of NbS, targeted advisory briefs for specific JOSP flow-control structures, river embankment breakage sites, canal embankment rehabilitations, and IDP relocation sites, as well as harmonized consortium NbS guidelines and a finalized NbS Rehabilitation Advisory Framework endorsed by Somali authorities. The consultant must ensure that all outputs are delivered on time, meet UNEP quality standards, and reflect stakeholder inputs as well as JOSP and national priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in environmental science, ecology, natural resources, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Additionally, at least 10 years of professional experience in Nature Based Solutions for water/land management and climate resilience, ecosystem-based approaches, and sustainable natural resources management is required. Experience in designing and implementing ecosystem/nature-based approaches on the ground is also necessary, along with advisory work experience, developing policy briefs, guidelines, and frameworks. Experience working in arid environments and fragile contexts is desired.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in environmental science, ecology, natural resources, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively contribute to the project.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of professional experience in Nature Based Solutions for water/land management and climate resilience, as well as experience in ecosystem-based approaches and sustainable natural resources management. Candidates should have a proven track record of designing and implementing ecosystem/nature-based approaches on the ground, which is critical for the successful execution of the consultancy. Experience in advisory roles, developing policy briefs, guidelines, and frameworks is also desired, as is experience working in arid environments and fragile contexts, which will enhance the consultant's ability to navigate the complexities of the Somali environment.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is required for this position, as effective communication is crucial for the role. Knowledge of Somali is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate better engagement with local partners and stakeholders. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will enhance the consultant's capacity to deliver outputs that are culturally and contextually relevant.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for four months, from November to March, and will be conducted on a home-based basis. The position does not specify additional information regarding contract duration, seniority level, or compensation. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization also does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.