Climate Change Specialist

Climate Change Specialist

United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)

September 1, 2026August 20, 2026Nigeria
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to uphold the rights of every child, ensuring their health, education, and protection. UNICEF's Health program focuses on supporting national health priorities, particularly for the most disadvantaged children, through initiatives like immunization and sustainable health services. The organization is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989), which emphasizes the right of all children to the highest attainable standard of health and well-being.

Job Overview:
The Climate Change Specialist position at UNICEF Nigeria is designed to address the pressing challenges posed by climate change on children's health, nutrition, and education. The specialist will play a crucial role in integrating climate change considerations into UNICEF's programs across various sectors, including WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), health, nutrition, education, and child protection. This role involves supporting the implementation of the Climate Landscape Analysis for Children in Nigeria (CLAC) Action Plan, ensuring that the voices of children and young people are included in national climate policy processes. The specialist will work closely with government partners, UN agencies, and civil society to strengthen climate-resilient services and advocate for child-sensitive climate policies. The position requires a proactive approach to evidence generation, program integration, and knowledge management, contributing to UNICEF's mission of promoting the rights and well-being of children in the face of climate-related challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Climate Change Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks, including:
  • Technical Support to Mainstream Climate Change into Sectoral Programmes (40%): This involves compiling relevant information for integration into UNICEF-supported programs, supporting state governments and partners in applying climate-risk informed approaches, and developing tools and guidance for climate risk analysis.
  • Coordination, Finance, and Partnerships (20%): The specialist will support government efforts to secure climate financing, engage in policy dialogue with various stakeholders, and coordinate technical meetings and workshops.
  • Evidence, Research and Knowledge Management (20%): Responsibilities include developing research tools, contributing to climate risk analyses, and documenting best practices from UNICEF-supported initiatives.
  • Monitoring, Reporting and Documentation (20%): The specialist will track climate-related program indicators, conduct field monitoring visits, and contribute to donor reports and presentations showcasing UNICEF's climate change results.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of climate change issues, particularly as they relate to children. The role requires proficiency in project management and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. A strong commitment to UNICEF's mission and values is essential, along with the capacity to engage effectively with children and youth.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in environmental science, social sciences, public health, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may enhance the candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 3-5 years of professional experience in climate change, public health, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or NGOs in a similar capacity is highly desirable. Familiarity with UNICEF's programs and policies will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the official language of Nigeria and the primary language of communication within UNICEF. Knowledge of local languages or other international languages would be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a National UN Volunteer assignment, which means the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The assignment will take place in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, which is classified as a C duty station, indicating moderate living conditions. The role is full-time and involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government institutions, UN agencies, and civil society organizations. The specialist will be expected to engage actively with children and youth, ensuring their perspectives inform UNICEF's climate change advocacy and design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design.