Environmental and Social Safeguards/Grievance Redress Mechanism (ESS/GRM) Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. Established in 1945, FAO has grown to include 194 member countries and operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on eradicating hunger, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture. In Kyrgyzstan, FAO works closely with the government to develop policies and programs aimed at addressing food security and enhancing agricultural productivity while ensuring sustainable management of natural resources.

Job Overview:
The Environmental and Social Safeguards/Grievance Redress Mechanism (ESS/GRM) Specialist plays a crucial role in the implementation of the GCF funded project 'Carbon Sequestration through Climate Investment in Forests and Rangelands (CS-FOR)'. This position involves supporting the project in achieving its objectives related to carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation, and sustainable management of natural resources. The specialist will work under the supervision of the FAO Representative and collaborate with various project teams and operational partners. The role requires a strong focus on natural resource management, climate change adaptation, and social inclusion, ensuring that environmental and social risks are identified and managed effectively throughout the project lifecycle.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The ESS/GRM Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of tasks including identifying potential environmental and social risks associated with project activities, supporting the disclosure of Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), establishing feedback mechanisms for grievance resolution, and ensuring compliance with environmental and social safeguard requirements. The specialist will also conduct training sessions for stakeholders, facilitate public consultations, monitor compliance with safety and labor protection standards, and guide the work of consultants and subcontractors. Additionally, the specialist will prepare regular progress reports and develop guidance on environmental and social criteria for project activities, ensuring that all actions align with FAO and GCF standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in agriculture, forestry, natural resource management, environmental science, or a related field. A minimum of 8 years of progressively responsible experience in the preparation and implementation of Environmental and Social Management Frameworks (ESMFs) and related plans is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of Russian and Kyrgyz, and be nationals of Kyrgyzstan. Strong communication skills, knowledge of agriculture and pasture management issues in Kyrgyzstan, and familiarity with FAO policies and environmental safeguard requirements are essential. Experience in stakeholder engagement and grievance handling is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in agriculture, forestry, natural resource management, environmental science, environmental engineering, or related fields is required for this position. The educational qualifications must be obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 8 years of progressively responsible experience in the preparation, implementation, and review of Environmental and Social Management Frameworks (ESMFs), Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs), and Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs/ESAs). Additionally, at least 5 years of experience with national, regional, or international projects is preferred, demonstrating a strong background in environmental and social safeguards.

Languages:
Proficiency in Russian and Kyrgyz is mandatory for this position, with a working knowledge (level C) required. Knowledge of English is considered an asset but is not mandatory. Candidates should possess excellent writing and communication skills in both Russian and Kyrgyz.

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 selection process will consider candidates with limited knowledge of English as an asset. For additional employment opportunities, candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website.