Senior Specialist, NbS Project Development and Community Engagement

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is a leading global conservation organization founded in 1961, dedicated to preserving the world's biological diversity and ensuring sustainable use of natural resources. With a mission to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has a diverse workforce of more than 5,000 employees. The organization focuses on various environmental issues, including climate change, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development, and collaborates with governments, businesses, and communities to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Senior Specialist, NbS Project Development and Community Engagement, is a pivotal role within WWF's Nature Finance and Investment (NFI) team, specifically in the Nature Markets Unit (NMU). This position is designed for an individual who is passionate about mobilizing large-scale financing for nature through innovative market solutions. The Senior Specialist will play a crucial role in developing and implementing nature-based solutions (NbS) projects that align with WWF's conservation priorities. This includes working closely with deal leads to create high-quality commercial NbS projects, particularly those that generate carbon removal credits. The role also emphasizes the importance of community engagement and benefits sharing, ensuring that projects are not only financially viable but also socially responsible and environmentally sustainable. The Senior Specialist will be responsible for keeping abreast of market standards and best practices, thereby ensuring that WWF's projects meet both organizational and international benchmarks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting NMU deal leads in the origination, design, and development of carbon and other commercial NbS products; advising deal teams on carbon project development, market methodologies, and standards; designing and implementing stakeholder engagement processes; ensuring project alignment with international standards and WWF's impact goals; conducting assessments of projects led by other organizations; managing project delivery and stakeholder engagement; and supporting broader strategy development and implementation. The role requires a proactive approach to project management and the ability to work collaboratively across various teams and stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree with at least 6 years of relevant experience, or an advanced degree with a minimum of 3 years of experience. Required qualifications include project development experience, particularly with carbon or nature-based projects, familiarity with carbon market mechanisms, and strong skills in stakeholder engagement and benefits sharing. Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, are essential, as is the ability to work inclusively with Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The candidate should also demonstrate a strong understanding of community engagement approaches and their value to various stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required, with advanced degrees preferred. The educational background should ideally include studies related to environmental science, sustainability, finance, or a related discipline that supports the understanding of nature-based solutions and project development.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in project development, particularly in the context of carbon or nature-based solutions. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on relevant projects, ideally in emerging markets or developing economies. Experience in stakeholder engagement, particularly with Indigenous communities, is highly valued. The role may also require travel up to 20% of the time for project development and relationship building.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Spanish or Indonesian is considered a strong asset. The ability to communicate effectively in multiple languages will enhance collaboration with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a limited-term position for 2 years, with the possibility of extension. The role is hybrid, requiring in-office presence in Washington DC for 2 days a week. The position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship or relocation assistance. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and will need to verify their identity and eligibility to work upon hire. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities and values diversity in its workforce.