Purpose of the Position
UNICEF Zimbabwe seeks to contract the services of a Climate Change officer to support the realization of the global, regional and country office proposed climate and environmental agenda. This role is considered to be a critical position within social policy, rendering a range of support that includes;
• The mainstreaming of climate change principles within UNICEF programming ensuring alignment and conformity to the post 2015 agenda in sustainable development
• The coordination and management of all CO climate change and green economy-related activities, advocacy materials, documentation and programmes
• UNICEF’s contribution to the National Climate Change Policy and National Renewable Energy Policy
• The organisation of UNICEF’s support regarding public events such as commemoration of important environmental days (world environment day, national tree planting day, etc.)
• The documentation of best practices and lessons learned directly linked to country program goals and activities.
The officer will further facilitate the roll out of climate related activities arising from the publication of the report on the impacts of climate change on children in Zimbabwe and will ensure that all events, correspondence, reports and documentation are well attended and maintain a high standard of organisation.
Key Expected Results
• Completed report on “Designing Innovative energy solutions to address environmental sustainability issues affecting children” and will have identified and developed an implementation plan for this initiative.
• Completed two Improved Cook stove SSFA contracts and have resulting evidence and reports obtained from these studies.
• Conducted second ever Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission inventory capturing data for the year 2014, and an analysis will be provided regarding the results differentials between the two years.
• By the end of 2015, the UNICEF Zimbabwe Country Office will have made defined progress to move the UNICEF country office environment toward a more climate neutral position through activities such as emission reductions, energy efficiency, waste management, and awareness raising and cost savings.
• Identification of opportunities, proposal calls and funding streams suitable for UNICEF climate change related programmes and activities. This shall include: private sector funding / partnerships, availability and feasibility of accessing Global Climate funds, Carbon Credit funds, and any additional fund types.
• Establish increased links and partnerships with environment agencies, institutions and organisations as well as an analysis of current and previous climate change related projects to determine feasibility and suitability for further engagement in 2016.
• A progress report noting the mainstreaming of climate change and environmental sustainability issues across UNICEF programme.
• Achieve the participation of young people, women and other vulnerable groups in the national climate change policy and renewable energy policy.
• Active participation in and contributions to the UN system coordination and programming e.g. through the UN Development Assistance Framework, joint programming initiatives, thematic groups, etc.
• Attendance at climate change and environmental related events, monitoring of UNICEFs support for such environmental activities/events as well as detailed reports following these activities.
• The development of a road map regarding ways in which the UNICEF Zimbabwe CO can progress toward integrating Proposed Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) seven, thirteen and fifteen. Numbers: 7 - “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all”; 13- “ Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts ”; 15- “Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss” (UNGA OWG, 2014)
• Monitor UNICEF-funded environmental activities and ensure that programmes/projects are progressing according to plan. This includes assisting project authorities in problem-solving and implementing corrective measures requiring undertakings of frequent monitoring visits to assigned projects.
• Undertake any tasks as requested by the Chief of Social Policy and/or the Representative.
Qualifications of Successful Candidate
Education
Advanced University degree or recent postgraduate in Geographical Sciences, Development Practice, Environmental Management, or related field.
Work Experience
· Experience in project management and coordination a key asset
· Knowledge and experience in climate and environmental issues is essential
· Experience in training and capacity building with groups an asset
· Knowledge in emerging technology applied to climate change is desirable
· Experience in capacity building and developing proposals/ concepts an asset
· Experience in producing informational or technical documentation is an added value
HOW TO APPLY:
If you have experience of working in a similar capacity, meet the above profile and want to make an active and lasting contribution to build a better world for children, send your application letter together with resume to the following address. All applications must have a cover letter and a C.V. and applications without cover letters will not be considered. If sending via email quote “Vacancy NoticeEnvironment (Climate Change) Officer P-2, Fixed Appointment Post),”as subject heading.Please email or drop in person.
Human Resources Manager
UNICEF, 6 Fairbridge Avenue, Belgravia Harare, Zimbabwe
or email:hararevacancies@unicef.org
Applications should be received by 16 January 2015. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
UNICEF is committed to gender equality in its mandate and its staff, and equal opportunities for people living with disabilities. Well qualified candidates, particularly women and people living with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.