Assistant Environment Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The UNHCR Somalia Representation Office is dedicated to leading protection, assistance, and durable solutions for refugees, asylum-seekers, refugee returnees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and host communities across Somalia. Established to address one of the world's most complex displacement situations, the office collaborates closely with the Federal Government of Somalia, Federal Member States, development partners, United Nations agencies, and civil society organizations. The organization aims to support humanitarian responses, resilience, and solutions for those affected by displacement, ensuring that the needs of vulnerable populations are met effectively. The office oversees field and sub-offices throughout Somalia, including locations such as Doolow, Bossaso, and Hargeisa, and employs a diverse team of professionals committed to humanitarian principles and the well-being of displaced individuals and communities.

Job Overview:
The Assistant Environment Officer plays a crucial role in integrating environmental sustainability and climate resilience into UNHCR operations, programs, and projects that benefit refugees, asylum-seekers, returnees, IDPs, and host communities. This position involves working under the direct supervision of the Associate External Relations Officer and contributes to the planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of environmental activities aimed at reducing environmental degradation and promoting sustainable natural resource management. The incumbent will collaborate closely with various units, including program, shelter, protection, and site planning, to ensure that environmental considerations are mainstreamed across humanitarian interventions. The role requires conducting environmental assessments, impact analyses, and supporting initiatives related to ecosystem restoration and climate adaptation. Regular field missions will be conducted to monitor environmental conditions, assess risks, and implement activities such as reforestation and sustainable land use. The Assistant Environment Officer will also engage with government agencies, local authorities, and community organizations to promote environmentally sustainable practices and compliance with regulations, thereby contributing to improved living conditions and resilience for both displaced and host populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant Environment Officer is responsible for conducting environmental screenings and assessments for various projects, preparing and monitoring Environmental Management Plans (EMPs), and maintaining an environmental risk register. The incumbent will identify environmental risks associated with shelter construction and settlement planning, advising on mitigation measures to reduce negative impacts. Compliance monitoring is a key duty, ensuring that contractors and partners adhere to environmental safeguards. The role also involves conducting field monitoring visits, preparing compliance reports, and supporting incident management. Community engagement is essential, as the officer will facilitate consultations and training on environmental risks and safe practices. Coordination with project engineers, local authorities, and implementing partners is necessary to ensure effective environmental management. The Assistant Environment Officer will contribute to project documentation and lessons learned, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into all aspects of UNHCR operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree (Bachelor's minimum) in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Natural Resource Management, Civil/Environmental Engineering, Climate Change, Geography, or a related field. A minimum of four to five years of relevant experience in environmental safeguards, infrastructure monitoring, or humanitarian projects is required. Familiarity with environmental assessment and monitoring, as well as experience in fragile or displacement contexts, is strongly preferred. Knowledge of donor-funded project requirements and environmental regulations is essential, along with strong analytical and communication skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in fields related to environmental studies, natural resource management, or engineering. A Bachelor's degree is the minimum requirement, with advanced degrees being advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of environmental policies, sustainability practices, and relevant regulations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four to five years of relevant experience in environmental safeguards, infrastructure monitoring, or humanitarian projects. Experience in Somalia or similar fragile contexts is preferred, as is familiarity with donor-funded projects and environmental compliance. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of environmental assessment processes and the ability to work effectively in challenging environments.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Somali is required, with advanced levels (C1) in both languages preferred. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, but English and Somali are mandatory for effective communication in this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS LICA 8 level and is expected to last for a duration of 12 months, starting from October 1, 202

• The role is based in Mogadishu, Somalia, which is classified as a hardship location (E level). The position is not remote and requires the incumbent to work on-site. The Assistant Environment Officer will be part of a team that collaborates closely with various sectors within UNHCR, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into all operational responses. The role may involve travel to field locations to monitor and assess environmental conditions and the implementation of sustainability initiatives.