The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking a Technical Specialist for Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) to provide high-level technical expertise and strategic guidance. The role is primarily focused on climate resilience and ecosystem management initiatives, particularly concerning Somalia, while being based in Nairobi. The specialist will lead strategic assessments, provide technical advisory services to governments and partners, and oversee project implementation from design to completion.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Assessment: Conduct the Somalia NbS Strategic Assessment, analyzing existing initiatives, mapping opportunities, and providing recommendations for programme-wide integration.
Technical Advisory: Produce rolling technical advisory notes and briefs for partners and the government regarding Ecosystem-based Approaches (EbA) and NbS options for Somali ecosystems.
Policy and Governance: Draft policy inputs, guidelines, and briefs for ministries and partners to support effective governance and climate policy reform.
Capacity Building: Develop and deliver training packages, modules, and workshops to enhance stakeholder capabilities.
Project Oversight: Provide technical oversight on NbS workstreams within various projects from the concept stage through to implementation.
Partnership Engagement: Collaborate effectively with project partners including FAO, UN-Habitat, IOM, UNIDO, World Vision, and government institutions.
Adaptation Planning: Provide technical inputs for rural, floodplain, and urban adaptation plans that integrate NbS and hybrid solutions.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Oversee monitoring, evaluation, and reporting for NbS initiatives to ensure impact and lessons learned are documented.
Qualifications and Experience
Education: A relevant university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in environmental studies, ecology, natural resources, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with two additional years of qualifying experience.
Experience: A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in Nature-based Solutions (NbS), Ecosystem-based Approaches (EbA), sustainable natural resources management, and climate adaptation/resilience.
Technical Expertise: Proven experience in designing and implementing ecosystem/nature-based approaches on the ground.
Desirable Skills: Experience in policy advisory work (policy briefs, frameworks), working in arid environments, and experience in fragile or conflict-affected contexts.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply via the official United Nations Careers portal. Click here to apply.
