Senior Environment and Safeguards Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the UN that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 Members, including 194 countries and the European Union, FAO operates in over 130 countries worldwide. The organization provides policy advice and support to countries in the areas of food and agriculture, facilitated through partnerships and resources. FAO Country Offices deliver on programmatic priorities aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, ensuring effective operations with adequate human and financial resources. FAO advocates for policies and investments in food and agriculture, provides technical assistance, and ensures accountable operations.

Job Overview:
The Senior Environment and Safeguards Specialist will play a crucial role in the Transforming Indus Basin with Climate Resilient Agriculture and Water Management Project, which is funded by the Green Climate Fund. This position is responsible for ensuring the timely delivery of all activities related to Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS), Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), and Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP). The specialist will manage and coordinate the implementation of FAO and GCF’s ESS standards, ensuring compliance and advising on best practices for improving social and environmental aspects of the project. The role requires close collaboration with various stakeholders, including government partners and project coordinators, to enhance the capacity of agriculture and pastoral sectors to cope with climate change through effective adaptation strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage and coordinate the implementation of FAO and GCF’s Environmental and Social Safeguards Standards (ESS), establishing a field compliance and reporting structure.
• Oversee the Grievance Redress Mechanism and provide feedback to improve project social and environmental aspects.
• Lead capacity building and training activities for stakeholders, including government and implementing partners.
• Review and update the project’s Environmental and Social Management System.
• Ensure compliance with ESS standards in project safeguards and develop monitoring and reporting systems.
• Conduct field due diligence and advise on site-specific safeguards.
• Incorporate ESS requirements into agreements with implementing partners.
• Address safety and health concerns during project phases.
• Develop and manage the grievance redress mechanism, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness. 1
• Conduct awareness campaigns about the Grievance Redress Mechanism. 1
• Document grievances and redress progress for reporting. 1
• Develop ESS instruments, including project ESMP and other relevant plans. 1
• Identify training needs and conduct ESS training for project staff and partners. 1
• Provide guidance on compliance and safeguarding requirements. 1
• Monitor ESMP implementation through field visits and prepare compliance reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Socio-ecological Sciences, or related fields. A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in safeguards in a senior role with international agencies or multilateral banks is required. Candidates should have a working knowledge of English and good knowledge of Urdu, Punjabi/Saraiki, and Sindhi. Nationality of Pakistan is a requirement for this position. FAO core competencies include results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Socio-ecological Sciences, or related socio-environmental degrees is mandatory for this position. Candidates must have their qualifications recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of professional working experience related to safeguards in a senior role, particularly with international agencies, multilateral banks, or other reputable institutions. Candidates should have hands-on experience in developing, implementing, and monitoring Environmental and Social Safeguards instruments.

Languages:
Candidates must have a working knowledge of English and good knowledge of Urdu. Proficiency in Punjabi/Saraiki and Sindhi is also required, as these languages are essential for effective communication with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
FAO does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position is based in Multan, Pakistan, and is subject to security clearances. For additional employment opportunities, candidates can visit the FAO employment website.