Chief Technical Advisor (CTA)

Job Posting Organization:
UN Environment is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus, UN Environment keeps the global environment under review and brings emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The organization operates globally, working with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, particularly in developing countries and those with economies in transition.

Job Overview:
The Chief Technical Advisor (CTA) will be embedded in the Project Management Unit (PMU) established by the Vice President Office of Tanzania (VPO). The CTA will provide technical support and advisory to the lead executing entity (VPO), the second executing entity (UNHCR), the Project Manager, and all PMU members, as well as implementing partners and key project stakeholders. The role requires frequent interaction with counterparts, senior officers, and technical staff from various government entities, international organizations, civil society organizations, and consultants. The CTA will conduct regular missions to the Kigoma region in Tanzania to work with the PMU and visit project sites, ensuring that project activities build climate resilience for host communities and refugees. The work will primarily be home-based, preferably from Tanzania or the East Africa region, utilizing internet communications for coordination and reporting.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee the implementation of climate-resilient village land use planning, ensuring adherence to national guidelines and project agreements.
• Provide technical support to the Project Manager and implementing partners to complete Village Land Use Plans in 20-25 villages.
• Offer guidance on Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) and support stakeholders in the land use planning process.
• Conduct beneficiary mapping in host communities and refugee camps, updating the project Stakeholder Consultation Plan.
• Provide strategic guidance and technical support for project output activities, including generating evidence of economic benefits of ecosystem-based adaptation and developing communication products.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and social safeguards, and support the implementation of the Grievance Redress Mechanism.
• Conduct technical supervision missions to project sites and follow up on recommendations.
• Develop terms of reference for consultancies and oversee the work of technical consultants.
• Prepare high-quality technical and financial reports, including Annual Performance Reports and biannual progress reports. 1
• Engage in stakeholder coordination and establish partnerships with international knowledge exchange platforms.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced University education (MSc or PhD) in Environmental Management/Studies, Natural Resource Management, Climate Change Adaptation, Geography, Landscape Planning, or related fields. A PhD is an added advantage.
• At least 7 years of professional experience in senior technical lead positions in climate change adaptation, environmental, or natural resources management projects, with at least four years at an international or regional level.
• Solid experience in project management, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Demonstrated experience in coordinating land use planning activities, preferably in climate-resilient initiatives.
• Experience in climate change adaptation policy and planning in developing countries.
• Proven experience providing technical support to project managers and ensuring compliance with guidelines.
• Track record of working with governmental bodies and international funding institutions, preferably with GCF projects.
• Experience with gender mainstreaming and social and environmental safeguards is desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced University education (MSc or PhD) in the area of Environmental Management/Studies, Natural Resource Management, Climate Change Adaptation, Geography, Landscape Planning, or related fields is required. A PhD in these areas will be an added advantage.

Experience:
At least 7 years of professional experience in senior technical lead positions in planning and management of climate change adaptation, environmental and/or natural resources management projects/programmes, including institutional strengthening and capacity building, with at least four years at an international or regional level, and four years specifically in climate change adaptation.

Languages:
Fluency in written, reading, and spoken English is required. Fluency in written, reading, and spoken Swahili is desired.

Additional Notes:
The contract type is International Individual Contractor Agreement (IICA), with a level of I-ICA 3 / ICS1

• The contract duration is 24 months with the possibility of extension subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability. The work schedule is part-time (50%), requiring flexibility based on service demands. The position is home-based, preferably in Tanzania or the East Africa region, with regular missions to the Kigoma region in Tanzania. UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity, encouraging applications from qualified women and underrepresented groups.