Environmental Social Safeguarding Specialist (ESS Specialist)

Job Posting Organization:
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Biodiversity Management Bureau (DENR-BMB) is a key agency in the Philippines focused on the conservation and sustainable management of the country's biodiversity. The organization is involved in various initiatives aimed at reversing land degradation and enhancing ecosystem resilience. The DENR-BMB collaborates with international partners such as Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and Conservation International to implement projects like the RESEEDPh Project, which is a significant initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The agency operates within the Philippines and is dedicated to addressing environmental challenges through science-based approaches and community engagement.

Job Overview:
The Environmental Social Safeguarding Specialist (ESS Specialist) will play a crucial role in managing, coordinating, and monitoring project activities related to the RESEEDPh project. This project aims to restore degraded ecosystems in protected areas and broader landscapes in the Philippines. The ESS Specialist will be responsible for leading the implementation of the Environmental Social and Management Framework (ESMF) in accordance with GEF standards. This position requires a strong focus on ensuring compliance with environmental safeguarding measures and providing technical support to project partners. The ESS Specialist will work closely with various stakeholders to achieve the project's objectives, which include reversing land degradation and improving sustainable land management practices. The role demands a proactive approach to identifying issues and implementing solutions to enhance project outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ESS Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including leading technical, monitoring, and reporting activities under the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and Management Plan (ESMP). This includes overseeing the entire project cycle from start-up to close-out, ensuring alignment with CRS program quality principles and donor requirements. The specialist will train partners and grantees on ESMP principles and risk mitigation measures, support the implementation of accompanying plans such as the Stakeholder Engagement Plan and Gender Mainstreaming Plan, and track their effectiveness using MEAL indicators. Additionally, the ESS Specialist will manage environmental risks, coordinate project MEAL activities, and ensure accountability through effective reporting. The role also involves reviewing project documentation, conducting budget reviews, and preparing trend analysis reports to disseminate results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in environmental science, engineering, management, environmental policy, economics, social development, or related fields. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in similar fields combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be considered. A minimum of five years of work experience in Environmental and Social Safeguarding for large-scale projects is required, ideally with a focus on land restoration and livelihoods. Familiarity with international standards and codes of practices in environmental and social safeguarding, as well as experience with World Bank ESG and GEF/GCF ESMF policies, is highly desirable. Additional experience in complex grant management is a plus, and candidates with relevant experience may be considered for educational qualifications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as environmental science, engineering, management, environmental policy, economics, or social development. Candidates with a Bachelor’s degree in similar fields may be considered if they have an additional two years of relevant experience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of environmental and social safeguarding in large-scale projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in Environmental and Social Safeguarding, particularly in large-scale projects focused on land restoration and livelihoods. Experience working with international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) and familiarity with environmental safeguarding standards and practices are critical for success in this role. Candidates with additional experience may be considered in lieu of some educational requirements, emphasizing the importance of practical knowledge in the field.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Filipino is mandatory for this position. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages is essential for engaging with diverse stakeholders and ensuring compliance with project requirements. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is expected to involve significant travel, with a requirement to be willing and able to travel up to 70% of the time to project locations. The role does not have supervisory responsibilities but requires strong relationship management skills and the ability to work effectively with local stakeholders. The position is full-time and is part of a larger initiative aimed at environmental restoration and sustainable land management in the Philippines. Catholic Relief Services is committed to safeguarding program participants and ensuring a safe working environment for all staff.