Consultant for Climate Smart Education Systems Initiative (CSESI)

Job Posting Organization:
Save the Children is a global organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and their families. Established in 1919, it operates in over 100 countries, employing thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that children have access to education, healthcare, and protection from harm. The organization is committed to creating a world where every child can thrive, and it values diversity, inclusion, and collaboration in its mission to support vulnerable communities. Save the Children partners with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and local communities, to implement programs that address the root causes of poverty and inequality.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the Climate Smart Education Systems Initiative (CSESI) Pacific, a project aimed at enhancing the climate resilience of education systems across the Pacific region. This consultancy is expected to run from July to November 2026 and will involve working closely with Pacific Ministries of Education to develop actionable climate finance concepts. The consultant will be responsible for translating climate finance priorities into viable project ideas, facilitating workshops, and engaging with stakeholders to ensure that the concepts align with funder requirements. The role requires a blend of technical expertise in climate finance and strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with various partners and government entities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the CSESI team and Pacific partners to translate climate finance roadmap priorities into viable concept ideas.
• Design and facilitate a regional workshop to prioritize and shape concept ideas, expected to take place between 20 July and 7 August 202
• Support countries in defining feasible funding pathways, including engagement with relevant accredited entities and national focal points.
• Facilitate targeted follow-up sessions and workshops to further develop and refine selected concepts.
• Lead the development of up to two climate finance concept notes that align with funder requirements.
• Support early engagement with funders and partners to test and strengthen the viability of the concepts.
• Ensure that all activities are conducted in accordance with Save the Children’s policies and procedures, particularly regarding child safeguarding.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate must possess a strong technical background in climate finance, with over 10 years of experience in designing and delivering climate finance, climate change, disaster risk reduction (DRR), or resilience programs, particularly in the Pacific region. At least 5 years of this experience should be specifically in climate finance. The candidate should have a proven track record of working with governments and Ministries on climate change and climate financing processes, as well as experience in program and project design, including the development of concept notes or proposals. Additionally, the candidate should have experience engaging with national governments, UN agencies, international bodies, and/or donors, and a strong understanding of climate finance mechanisms and processes such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF), Global Environment Facility (GEF), and Adaptation Fund. Demonstrated ability to facilitate workshops and engage diverse stakeholders in multi-country contexts is also essential.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in environmental science, climate change, finance, public policy, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees (Master's or PhD) are preferred, particularly those focusing on climate finance or environmental policy. Continuous professional development in climate finance and related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience, ideally over 10 years, in the field of climate finance, climate change adaptation, and resilience programming. This experience should include at least 5 years specifically focused on climate finance, with a strong emphasis on working within the Pacific region. The candidate should have a history of successful project design and implementation, particularly in collaboration with governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all communications and documentation will be conducted in English. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Pacific region would be considered an advantage, as it may facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is a short-term position, expected to last from July to November 202

• The role is home-based, allowing for flexibility in location, but candidates should be situated within the Pacific region or Australia. The position is part-time, with specific deliverables and timelines outlined in the Terms of Reference. Compensation details will be discussed during the interview process, and all consultants are required to undergo relevant background checks and adhere to Save the Children’s Child Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct.