Overview
The Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialist will support the implementation and monitoring of environmental and social safeguards to ensure compliance with FAO, national, and Green Climate Fund (GCF) requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Support implementation and monitoring of the Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF).
- Contribute to the preparation, review and implementation of Environmental and Social Assessments (ESA) and Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs).
- Conduct environmental and social screening of project activities and ensure integration of mitigation measures into project design, workplans, budgets and contracts.
- Monitor safeguards risks and compliance, including through regular field visits, and support corrective actions as needed.
- Provide safeguards inputs for project reporting, including APRs and internal monitoring systems.
- Deliver training and awareness activities on safeguards requirements for project stakeholders.
- Support the implementation and update of the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP).
- Facilitate inclusive consultations with national and local stakeholders, including vulnerable groups.
- Ensure proper documentation, disclosure and communication of safeguards-related information and processes.
- Maintain records of stakeholder feedback and contribute to reporting on engagement activities.
- Support the implementation and operationalization of the project GRM.
- Receive, document and track grievances, supporting their timely resolution in line with FAO procedures.
- Maintain grievance records and provide regular updates on status and outcomes.
- Monitor the effectiveness of the GRM and suggest improvements where needed.
- Contribute GRM-related inputs to project safeguards reporting.
Required Experience
- At least 5 years of progressively responsible professional experience in the formulation and implementation of environmental and social management frameworks and plans, environmental and social impact assessments, and related reporting frameworks within development projects.
- Demonstrated experience in the preparation and/or implementation of ESIA/ESA, ESMPs and other safeguards instruments related to forestry, natural resources management, climate change, biodiversity or rural development projects.
- Experience working with international organizations, development partners or climate finance projects is considered an asset.
- Field experience and experience conducting site visits and safeguards monitoring in rural areas.
- Familiarity with FAO’s Framework for Environmental and Social Management (FESM) and/or the environmental and social safeguards requirements of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) or other international financial institutions is considered a strong asset.
Qualifications
• Advanced university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in environmental sciences, natural resources management, environmental law, social sciences, forestry, sustainable development or a related field. Consultants with bachelor's degree need two additional years of relevant professional experience.
