National Environmental & Social Safeguards Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) was established in 1945 and is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. The organization has a mission 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. FAO operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. The organization is committed to supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving nutrition, thereby contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The National Environmental & Social Safeguards Specialist will play a crucial role in the implementation of the FAO Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) within the context of the project 'ADAPT Jamaica: Enhancing climate change resilience of vulnerable smallholders in Central Jamaica.' This position requires a proactive approach to ensure that environmental and social safeguards are integrated throughout the project lifecycle. The specialist will be responsible for conducting environmental and social risk screenings, maintaining databases of screening outcomes, and ensuring compliance with national legislation and FAO guidelines. The role also involves engaging with local communities and stakeholders to facilitate communication and ensure that their concerns are addressed in project planning and execution. The specialist will work closely with various partners, including the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) and local authorities, to promote climate-resilient agricultural practices and enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Environmental & Social Safeguards Specialist include conducting environmental and social risk screenings for all project interventions, ensuring systematic assessments of potential risks, maintaining an up-to-date database of screening outcomes, and conducting routine field visits to monitor the implementation of mitigation measures. The specialist will also collect primary environmental and social data, act as a liaison between the Project Management Unit (PMU) and various stakeholders, support stakeholder engagement activities, prepare operational monitoring reports, provide logistical support for Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), and support capacity building for PMU staff and partners. Additionally, the specialist will monitor compliance with mitigation measures, maintain updated ESS risk registers, support the establishment of the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), and coordinate with the Gender and Social Inclusion Specialist to ensure gender-sensitive approaches are integrated into all activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in environmental sciences, social sciences, natural resource management, rural development, or related fields. They should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in applying Environmental and Social Management Frameworks (ESMF) and screening tools. A working knowledge of English at level C is required, and candidates must be nationals of Jamaica. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of national environmental and social legislation, relevant experience in the Caribbean, and demonstrated ability to conduct field monitoring and engage with diverse stakeholders. Excellent coordination, communication, and report writing skills are essential, along with the ability to work under tight deadlines.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in fields such as environmental sciences, social sciences, natural resource management, or rural development. Candidates must have their qualifications recognized by an institution accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in applying Environmental and Social Management Frameworks (ESMF) and screening tools. Experience in the Caribbean context, particularly in Jamaica, is considered an asset. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with stakeholders and conducting field monitoring activities.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at level C is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees 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 position may involve full-time engagement, and the appointment is subject to security clearances. For further employment opportunities, candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website.