Consultant for Urban Heat Action Plan

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is part of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), which was established in 194

• ESCAP's mission is to promote inclusive and sustainable economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. The organization operates in 62 member states and 9 associate members, focusing on various issues including climate change, urban development, and disaster risk reduction. ESCAP aims to enhance regional cooperation and integration, providing a platform for dialogue and collaboration among member states.

Job Overview:
This consultancy role is integral to the ESCAP project titled 'Enabling Urban Action to Enhance Climate Resilience in Asia,' which is funded by the United Kingdom’s CARA Fund. The project is designed to bolster urban resilience in South and Southeast Asia, particularly in response to the increasing challenges posed by extreme heat. The consultant will work specifically in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, a city that is experiencing significant urban heat vulnerability due to its geographical conditions and rapid urbanization. The consultant's primary responsibility will be to develop and implement a comprehensive urban heat action plan that addresses the adverse effects of extreme heat, ensuring that the plan is gender-mainstreamed and disability-aware. The consultant will also engage with various stakeholders, including city officials and vulnerable populations, to ensure that the interventions are inclusive and effective.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks:

• Finalizing a comprehensive baseline assessment report for Cox’s Bazar, which includes urban heat vulnerability zone mapping, risk parameters, and analysis of heat characteristics using available data.
• Leading the development of a gender-mainstreamed and disability-aware urban heat action plan that incorporates immediate, mid- and long-term interventions, such as nature-based solutions and climate-responsive urban planning.
• Providing expert inputs for the organization and delivery of multi-stakeholder workshops aimed at raising awareness among government officials, civil society, and vulnerable groups.
• Offering ongoing technical guidance and support to city officials on the implementation of the action plan, including the development of Letters of Agreement (LoAs).
• Ensuring the meaningful participation of vulnerable groups in all project activities, in line with GEDSI principles.
• Coordinating with various project partners and stakeholders to ensure effective collaboration and integration of efforts.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as urban planning, environmental science, climate change adaptation, public policy, or sustainable development. A PhD and professional certifications in climate adaptation or disaster risk reduction are considered desirable. Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in urban climate resilience, heat mitigation strategies, or sustainable urban development. A proven track record of working with city governments in developing countries is essential, along with experience in baseline assessments and vulnerability analyses. Familiarity with South Asian contexts, particularly Bangladesh, and experience with gender-responsive and disability-inclusive planning approaches are also desirable. Candidates should possess expert knowledge of the urban heat island effect, heat mitigation strategies, and climate adaptation planning, as well as a strong understanding of nature-based solutions in urban settings.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as urban planning, environmental science, climate change adaptation, public policy, or sustainable development. Additional qualifications such as a PhD and professional certifications in climate adaptation or disaster risk reduction are highly desirable and will enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in areas related to urban climate resilience, heat mitigation strategies, or sustainable urban development. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with city governments and local authorities in developing countries, particularly in South Asian contexts. Experience in conducting baseline assessments and vulnerability analyses is essential, as is familiarity with gender-responsive and disability-inclusive planning approaches.

Languages:
The consultant must have an excellent command of written and spoken English. A working knowledge of Bengali or other relevant Bangladeshi languages is desirable, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the consultancy.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based and expected to last from April to July 202

• The position does not specify a fee for the recruitment process, emphasizing that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment, including application, interview, or training processes. This highlights the organization's commitment to transparency and integrity in its hiring practices.