Climate Change Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment (OCB) is a vital part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that focuses on addressing the pressing issues of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. Established to coordinate efforts across various sectors and stakeholders, OCB plays a crucial role in facilitating responses to these interconnected challenges. The organization serves as the focal point for significant multilateral environmental agreements, including the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). OCB also assists FAO member countries in tackling security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security issues in relation to climate change and biodiversity, providing access to climate and environmental financing through mechanisms like the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF). Furthermore, OCB hosts several important programs, including the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Programme and the Commission on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, thereby contributing to the sustainable management of agricultural resources and environmental safeguards.

Job Overview:
The Climate Change Specialist position is integral to the Climate Change Team within OCB, which is responsible for maintaining relationships with the UNFCCC and coordinating FAO's participation in United Nations climate change conferences. The role involves providing technical expertise on climate change and agrifood systems, supporting the implementation of FAO's climate change portfolio, and facilitating knowledge development and training. The specialist will work closely with national counterparts and partners to enhance the effectiveness of climate change programs at the country level. This includes developing concept notes, conducting economic and market analyses, and engaging in capacity-building activities. The position requires a proactive approach to addressing climate-related challenges and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Climate Change Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks aimed at supporting FAO and its partners in the climate change program. Key responsibilities include:

• Providing support to countries on climate-related topics such as Enhanced Transparency Framework, Mitigation, Adaptation, and Loss and Damage, focusing on policy development, access to finance, and the application of tools and datasets.
• Conducting analyses of nationally determined contributions (NDCs), long-term strategies (LTS), and National Adaptation Plans (NAP), as well as projects funded by GEF and GCF.
• Performing financial and market analyses to inform the development of ongoing projects and programs.
• Conducting value chain analyses for specific agricultural commodities to contribute to project development.
• Writing project concept notes, proposals, and other relevant documentation to support ongoing and future initiatives.
• Preparing training materials and organizing workshops to disseminate information effectively.
• Reviewing program documents and participating in country missions to provide on-the-ground support.
• Offering technical assistance for organizing meetings and workshops, and fulfilling any additional duties related to the program as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in climate change, economics, agrifood systems, or a closely related field. Additionally, they should have relevant work experience in climate change and food systems, with specific requirements based on the category of the position: at least 2 years for category C, 5 years for category B, or 10 years for category A. Experience in areas such as climate policy and analysis, climate risk assessment, private sector engagement, project development, climate finance, and gender and social inclusion is essential. A working knowledge of English is mandatory, and familiarity with FAO's core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing, is highly valued.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in fields related to climate change, economics, agrifood systems, or other closely related disciplines. This academic foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of climate change and its impact on food systems, enabling the specialist to effectively contribute to the organization's objectives.

Experience:
The level of experience required for the Climate Change Specialist position varies by category. Candidates must have a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience for category C, 5 years for category B, and 10 years for category A. This experience should encompass various aspects of climate change and food systems, including policy analysis, project development, and climate finance, ensuring that the candidate is well-equipped to handle the responsibilities of the role.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, knowledge of other UN official languages, particularly Spanish and French, is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time, and candidates may be assessed based on their ability to manage partnerships with government and non-government organizations, as well as private sector entities. The role may involve international collaboration, and candidates should be prepared for potential travel as part of their responsibilities. Compensation and benefits details are typically provided during the hiring process.