Waste Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) is a partnership of governments, intergovernmental organizations, and representatives from the private sector, environmental community, and civil society. Established to address integrated climate and clean air solutions, the CCAC focuses on reducing emissions of short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) such as methane, black carbon, HFCs, and tropospheric ozone. Brazil became a CCAC member in June 2023 and has shown commitment to tackling super pollutants through various national and international frameworks. The CCAC aims to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders to implement effective climate actions and improve air quality.

Job Overview:
The Waste Specialist will provide technical support to the SLCP Unit in developing actions to mitigate short-lived climate pollutants in the waste sector, particularly focusing on organic waste and wastewater. This role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including ministries and local governments, to align national waste policies with SLCP mitigation goals. The Specialist will also work on enhancing waste management systems, promoting source segregation, and developing financing mechanisms for SLCP mitigation solutions. The position requires a strong emphasis on collaboration with the CCAC Secretariat and other sectors to elevate the visibility of SLCP mitigation efforts in Brazil.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Waste Specialist will be responsible for providing specialized technical support to advance the SLCP mitigation agenda in Brazil's waste sector. Key responsibilities include: 1) Developing and reviewing policies to integrate SLCP considerations into waste management; 2) Identifying and implementing financing mechanisms for SLCP mitigation solutions; 3) Collaborating with various stakeholders to implement actions that mitigate SLCP emissions while generating social and environmental benefits; 4) Supporting the Clean Air and Climate Plan's implementation and governance; 5) Developing knowledge products and capacity-building initiatives for stakeholders; 6) Ensuring alignment with CCAC initiatives and supporting Brazil's leadership in the CCAC Waste Hub.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in relevant fields such as environmental sciences, natural resources management, or sustainable development. A first-level university degree combined with four additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. At least 7 years of professional experience in climate change and waste management is required, along with demonstrated abilities in report writing, data analysis, and providing technical advice to high-level stakeholders. Knowledge of development communication and capacity-building methods is essential, and experience in organic waste management systems is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in fields related to environmental sciences, biology, environmental engineering, or sustainable development is required. A first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may be considered. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in the principles of climate change, waste management, and environmental policy.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in areas relevant to climate change and waste management. Experience in organic waste management systems, financing mechanisms for waste projects, and familiarity with Brazil's public sector institutions will be advantageous. Proven experience in developing and implementing SLCP mitigation strategies is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese and English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is strong communication skills in both Portuguese and English to effectively engage with stakeholders and produce necessary documentation.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for 12 months, with a hybrid work model acceptable, requiring regular presence in Brasilia as agreed with the SQA/MMA. The role is part of a significant initiative to enhance Brazil's waste management system's contribution to SLCP mitigation, focusing on collaboration and capacity building across various sectors. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.