Carbon Finance Specialists Roster

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is the most inclusive intergovernmental platform in Asia and the Pacific. Established to respond to the demand from the region, ESCAP aims to strengthen its work on carbon finance. The organization focuses on providing targeted, demand-driven support to countries through a comprehensive set of measures, including harnessing carbon finance to deliver clean energy financing, mobilizing private capital, and enhancing integrated policy and regulatory frameworks. ESCAP operates across multiple countries in the Asia-Pacific region, working to address complex challenges related to climate change and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The role of the Carbon Finance Specialists is multi-faceted, focusing on providing technical, analytical, and advisory support across various assignments related to carbon finance, carbon markets, and energy transition financing. The specialists will engage in research and analysis, policy and regulatory advice, and the development of technical guidance and tools. They will also support capacity-building activities aimed at increasing the knowledge and capabilities of member States regarding carbon credits and transition credits. The specialists will work under the oversight of the Chief of the Financing for Development Section, ensuring that carbon finance perspectives are integrated into policy dialogues and decision-making processes. Their work will contribute to the overarching goal of supporting member States in accelerating energy transitions through strengthened policies and financing mechanisms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Carbon Finance Specialists include analyzing carbon pricing instruments and frameworks, advising on coal-plant decommissioning strategies, developing criteria and frameworks for carbon credits, and quantifying emissions reductions from coal-fired power plant decommissioning. They will also draft regional carbon finance policy frameworks, develop training materials for member States, and facilitate capacity-building activities. The specialists will analyze carbon markets in the Asia-Pacific region, assess carbon finance flows, and scope opportunities and methodologies relevant to energy transition financing. They will also monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of stakeholder engagement and capacity-building initiatives, ensuring that recommendations are practical and applicable.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or higher) in relevant fields such as economics, finance, public policy, environmental economics, climate change, energy policy, or sustainable development. A PhD in a relevant field is desirable. Additionally, a minimum of 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in carbon finance, carbon markets, climate finance, or related fields is required. Demonstrated expertise in carbon pricing instruments, emissions trading systems, and carbon market governance is essential. Experience in developing policy recommendations and working with governments or international organizations on carbon market initiatives is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in economics, finance, public policy, environmental economics, climate change, energy policy, sustainable development, engineering, law, or a related discipline. A PhD in a relevant field is considered an asset, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the area of carbon finance and related topics.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 to 10 years of progressively responsible experience in fields related to carbon finance, carbon markets, climate finance, and energy transition. This experience should include demonstrated expertise in carbon pricing instruments, emissions trading systems, and the development of policy recommendations and analytical reports. Familiarity with carbon market developments in the Asia-Pacific region is highly desirable, as is previous experience working with the United Nations system or other international organizations.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are required for this position. Knowledge of another United Nations official language is desirable, as it may enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This announcement is for the purpose of establishing a roster of qualified consultants to advise ESCAP's multi-year programme on energy transition financing in Asia and the Pacific. Inclusion in the roster does not guarantee employment or engagement, and specific consultancy assignments, contract duration, and remuneration levels will be determined separately for each assignment. ESCAP is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive working environment and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all nationalities, genders, and backgrounds. The organization does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.