Specialist – Nature-Based Solutions

Reporting to the head of the impact assessment and adaptation analysis section, the main responsibility of the successful candidate will be to provide science-based advice in the context of nature-based solutions for adaptation and mitigation, policy support, and capacity building at local to national and global levels. The successful candidate is expected to work on a varied portfolio of activities, including project management and coordination, partnership development, data generation, quantitative and qualitative analysis, as well as contributing to fundraising, and proposal development in collaboration with other staff as well as other relevant colleagues across UNEP.

Specific areas of work for the Specialist – Nature-based Solutions will include:

• Coordinate the work on nature-based solutions at UNPE-CCC through: 

  • strategic inputs regarding the direction and scope of activities related to nature-based solutions; 

  • management and implementation of projects and other initiatives related to nature-based solutions; 

  • support and co-development of fundraising activities under the supervision of the head of section; and 

  • development and maintenance of partnerships and intensive networking in the context of nature-based solutions, in particular those supporting low-carbon, climate-resilient sustainable development.

• Contribute to the development of knowledge and capacity building products for nature-based solutions that address climate risks and support climate mitigation and sustainable development.

• Analyse the opportunities and challenges for public and private sector engagement in nature-based solutions and develop and implement innovative business models for NbS implementation in developing countries and emerging economies.

• Collaborate with the head of unit in setting the work and strategic discussion of the IAAA section in the context of nature-based solutions.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of UNEP-CCC’s and UNEP’s strategies, in particular in the area of nature-based solutions that address climate risks and support climate mitigation and sustainable development.

• Other tasks as designated by the section head.

3. Monitoring and Progress Controls

The incumbent will be evaluated against performance criteria including the following:

• Level of contribution to project objectives

• Level of contribution to resource mobilization, partnership building and maintenance, and networking

• Level of contribution to the UNOPS core competencies (see below)

• Level of contribution to the strategic discussions as part of the IAAA section, UNEP-CCC, and UNEP

a. Education 

Candidates should possess a master's degree in Environmental Sciences, Economics, Natural Resource Management, Political Sciences, or other areas with strong relevance to climate change and nature-based solutions. A Ph.D. with a thesis in a related topic is highly desirable. A bachelor’s degree with an additional two (2) years of experience may be accepted in lieu of the master's degree.

b. Experience

• Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience working on nature-based solutions for adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable development, as well as M&E. Experience with the UNFCCC and climate policies at national and international levels is an important asset.
• Experience in project management and coordination is required.
• Experience working with developing countries and emerging economies is required.
• Experience with fundraising and partnership building are strong assets.
• Experience working in an international agency or organization is desirable.

c. Languages

• The working language at UNEP-CCC is English. Fluency in English is required for this position. Fluency in either Spanish and/or French is highly desired. Knowledge of any other UN language is an asset.