Natural Resources Management and Climate Change Resilience Specialist

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Natural Resources Management and Climate Change Resilience Specialist
Location: Mbabane
Country: Eswatini
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an intergovernmental organization established to combat hunger and poverty through agricultural development and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security initiatives. With over 194 member nations, FAO works globally to enhance nutrition and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including farmers' groups, NGOs, and other UN agencies, to achieve its mission. FAO's country offices, led by representatives, support governments in formulating policies and programs aimed at food security and reducing malnutrition, focusing on sustainable use of natural resources.

Job Overview:
The Natural Resources Management and Climate Change Resilience Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the implementation of field projects related to climate change resilience and natural resource management in Eswatini. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the FAO Representation and collaborate closely with government focal points and technical officers. The position focuses on mobilizing climate finance, promoting sustainable land and water management, and enhancing ecosystem services. The specialist will conduct situational analyses, assess institutional capacities, and develop guidelines for integrating climate action into national policies and programs. This role requires a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement and strategic planning to support the Eswatini Government's Climate Change Roadmap.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for conducting a situational analysis of climate change impacts on Eswatini's socio-economic activities and identifying adaptation and mitigation needs. They will assess institutional capacity gaps in mainstreaming climate change and profile existing natural resources and climate-related policies. The specialist will develop guidelines for adopting best practices in ongoing projects, prepare engagement plans with stakeholders, and participate in defining strategic objectives for the Climate Change Roadmap. Additionally, the role involves reviewing risk management strategies, evaluating controls around grant-making processes, and advising on enhancements to align with Green Climate Fund (GCF) requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in environmental science, natural resource management, forestry, climate change, development studies, or a related field. A minimum of five years of experience in natural resource management, particularly in agricultural and forestry development, is required. Full proficiency in English is essential, along with strong analytical and communication skills. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to engage effectively with stakeholders and develop comprehensive resource mobilization plans.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, natural resource management, forestry, climate change, or development studies. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of climate change and its impact on natural resources and agricultural practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in natural resource management, particularly in the context of agricultural and forestry development. Experience in program implementation, project design, and stakeholder engagement is essential. Familiarity with climate finance and environmental funding mechanisms is highly desirable, as is experience working with UN agencies and in field positions.

Languages:
Full proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the local context or the stakeholders involved in the projects.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time and may involve working in various locations within Eswatini. Candidates should be prepared for potential travel as part of their duties. The role may also involve collaboration with international partners and stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and relationship-building skills. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with FAO's policies and standards.