Senior Environment and Safeguards Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members (194 countries and the European Union), FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide, providing policy advice and support to countries in the areas of food and agriculture. FAO Country Offices advocate, inform, and support policies and investments, provide technical assistance, and ensure effective operations aligned with international standards of accountability. The organization is committed to transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, contributing to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Environment and Safeguards Specialist will play a crucial role in the Transforming Indus Basin with Climate Resilient Agriculture and Water Management Project, which is funded by the Green Climate Fund. This position is vital for ensuring that all activities related to Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS), Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), and Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) are implemented effectively. The specialist will work under the supervision of the FAO Representative in Pakistan and will coordinate closely with various stakeholders, including international officers and national project coordinators. The primary focus will be on enhancing the capacity of agriculture and pastoral sectors to cope with climate change by implementing climate adaptation technologies and practices. The role requires a strong understanding of compliance with environmental and social standards and the ability to manage and coordinate various project activities to ensure alignment with FAO and GCF standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Environment and Safeguards Specialist will be responsible for managing and coordinating the implementation of FAO and GCF’s Environmental and Social Safeguards Standards. This includes establishing a field compliance and reporting structure, managing the Grievance Redress Mechanism, and leading capacity-building activities for stakeholders. Specific duties include reviewing and updating the existing project Environmental and Social Management System, coordinating project safeguards in compliance with FAO and GCF standards, developing a safeguard monitoring and reporting system, conducting field due diligence, ensuring compliance with ESS standards during project implementation, and managing the grievance redress mechanism. The specialist will also conduct training for project staff and stakeholders, prepare monitoring reports, and work with the M&E team to assess compliance and safeguarding perspectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Socio-ecological Sciences, or related fields. A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in safeguards in a senior role with international agencies or multilateral banks is required. Candidates should have a good knowledge of English and Urdu, and must be nationals of Pakistan. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Socio-ecological Sciences, or socio-environmental related degrees is mandatory for this position. Candidates must have their qualifications recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional working experience related to environmental and social safeguards in a senior role. Experience with international agencies, multilateral banks, or reputable institutions is essential. Candidates should have a proven track record in designing and implementing safeguard and risk management activities, preferably for development programs or projects.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Urdu is mandatory. Knowledge of local languages such as Punjabi, Saraiki, or Sindhi is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The positions are at the SB1V-SC9 level, with one position based in Multan and the other in Tandojam, Pakistan. FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The appointment is subject to security clearances.