Climate Change Specialist (2 Positions) – Home-Based – FAO Africa

Organization: FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations)
Location: Home-Based
Contract Type: Consultant / PSA (Personal Services Agreement)
Duration: 6 months (with possibility of extension)
Application Deadline: 15 July 2025, 11:59 PM
Job Type: Non-staff opportunities
Unit: RAFTD – Technical Officers Group
Number of Positions: 2

About FAO

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a United Nations agency committed to achieving food security and sustainable development. FAO’s Regional Office for Africa (RAF), based in Accra, Ghana, coordinates regional efforts in agriculture, food security, and rural development. Within this framework, the Forestry and Natural Resource Management Unit is implementing the FAO Strategy on Climate Change (2022–2031), focusing on better production, nutrition, environment, and life for all.

Position Overview

The Climate Change Specialist will work under the supervision of the RAF Senior Forestry Officer and the Delivery Manager for Climate Action and Natural Resource Management. The selected consultants will provide technical support to FAO’s climate portfolio in Africa, specifically related to climate finance, carbon markets, policy, adaptation and mitigation strategies, and sustainable agrifood systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide guidance on sustainable natural resource management, focusing on climate-resilient livelihoods and food security

• Contribute to developing a standardized framework for carbon markets and trade in Africa

• Analyze case studies, identify lessons learned, and assess opportunities for carbon market participation

• Support African countries with climate policies, finance access, adaptation, loss and damage, and transparency mechanisms

• Conduct technical analyses of nationally determined contributions (NDCs), long-term strategies (LTS), and climate finance proposals

• Perform financial and market analysis to support program development

• Draft project proposals, training materials, technical reports, and knowledge products

• Participate in field missions, stakeholder consultations, and technical workshops

• Support organization and delivery of climate-focused events and trainings

• Carry out additional duties related to climate action and resource management as needed

Minimum Requirements

• Advanced university degree in natural resources, climate change, environmental science, or related field

• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in climate change, forestry, or environmental management in Africa or other developing regions

• Full proficiency in English

Technical and Functional Competencies

• Strong understanding of climate policy and governance in the African context

• Experience in carbon market frameworks and international climate finance (e.g. GCF, GEF, Adaptation Fund)

• Skills in technical and financial analysis of climate strategies and projects

• Excellent writing and communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences

• Familiarity with NDCs, adaptation plans, loss and damage, and transparency processes

• Experience working across multiple countries or regions is an asset

• Working knowledge of French is desirable

FAO Core Competencies

• Results focus

• Teamwork

• Communication

• Building effective relationships

• Knowledge sharing and continuous improvement

How to Apply

To apply, visit the FAO careers portal and complete your online profile. Ensure your CV includes relevant academic qualifications, work experience, and language skills. Attach a motivation letter to your application. Only applications submitted through the FAO recruitment platform will be considered. Early applications are encouraged.

For support, contact FAO’s client support at: https://fao.service-now.com/csp