Adaptation Technical Analyst

Result of Service

Contributing to the efficient implementation of the projects ‘Regional Observatory of Adaptation’ and ‘Resilient Watersheds of Panama’ by Delivering the following products: OUTPUT 1: An operative Regional Observatory of Adaptation that collects data and information on adaptation to climate change in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and serves as catalyst for mobilizing resources, filling knowledge gaps, overcoming barriers to adaptation, and informing effective policymaking (observatory). Product 1. A Document containing a Workplan for the development of the Regional Observatory of Adaptation, including activities to develop the substantive structure of the observatory, the data base for the compilation of information, the proposal of visualisation of data and the list of partners and information sources (observatory). OUTPUT 1.1: Technical capacity to make and use climate forecasts and develop climate-related indices is strengthened. OUTPUT 1.3: Tailored sector-specific climate information products that link climate, biodiversity and socio-economic information on a range of timescales are developed, based on identified user needs. OUTPUT 3.1: A suite of EbA interventions in three (3) selected watersheds implemented (Resilient watersheds). Product 2. A document containing a first version of legal agreements aimed to facilitate the project implementation (Project Cooperation Agreements-PCAs, Small-Scale Funding Agreements-SSFA, etc.) (Resilient watersheds). OUTPUT 1: An operative Regional Observatory of Adaptation that collects data and information on adaptation to climate change in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and serves as catalyst for mobilizing resources, filling knowledge gaps, overcoming barriers to adaptation, and informing effective policymaking (observatory). Product 3. A document containing a proposal of data, variables and indicators to be included in the observatory and potential sources of information(observatory). OUTPUT 1: An operative Regional Observatory of Adaptation that collects data and information on adaptation to climate change in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and serves as catalyst for mobilizing resources, filling knowledge gaps, overcoming barriers to adaptation, and informing effective policymaking (observatory). Product 4. A document containing the structure of data base to collect information to feed the observatory including variables and indicators related to climate risks, vulnerability and adaptation progress/solutions. (observatory). OUTPUT 1.1: Technical capacity to make and use climate forecasts and develop climate-related indices is strengthened. OUTPUT 1.3: Tailored sector-specific climate information products that link climate, biodiversity and socio-economic information on a range of timescales are developed, based on identified user needs. OUTPUT 3.1: A suite of EbA interventions in three (3) selected watersheds implemented (Resilient watersheds). Product 5. A document containing a first version of progress report to the donor (Resilient watersheds). Output 1: An operative Regional Observatory of Adaptation that collects data and information on adaptation to climate change in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and serves as catalyst for mobilizing resources, filling knowledge gaps, overcoming barriers to adaptation, and informing effective policymaking (observatory). Product 6. A document containing a proposal of structure of website for the observatory including the proposal of functionalities for the visualization of variables and indicators in tables, graphs and/or maps (observatory). OUTPUT 4.1: Awareness-raising and lessons learned sharing facilitated (Resilient watersheds). Product 7. A report containing a revised communication strategy for the project that includes the proposal of visual identity, a plan of communication pieces and identified channels of dissemination (Resilient watersheds). Output 1: An operative Regional Observatory of Adaptation that collects data and information on adaptation to climate change in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and serves as catalyst for mobilizing resources, filling knowledge gaps, overcoming barriers to adaptation, and informing effective policymaking (observatory). Product 8. A document containing a list of partners/institutions to liaise with to collect information and encourage periodic update (observatory). OUTPUT 4.1: Awareness-raising and lessons learned sharing facilitated (Resilient watersheds). Product 9. P A document containing a proposal of structure of the web page/web site for the project including sections of general information, resources, news, training material, publications, etc (Resilient watersheds). Output 1: An operative Regional Observatory of Adaptation that collects data and information on adaptation to climate change in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and serves as catalyst for mobilizing resources, filling knowledge gaps, overcoming barriers to adaptation, and informing effective policymaking (observatory). Product 10. A document containing a Proposal of virtual event for the launch of the Regional Observatory whiting the framework of Regatta -Climate Action. The product includes concept note of the event, agenda, invitations for speakers, talking points and communications materials if needed (observatory). Specific tasks and responsibilities The Adaptation Technical Analyst will contribute to the effective implementation of the projects by developing the following tasks: 1. Design and development of the Regional Observatory of Adaptation Consolidate a virtual facility that collects data and information on adaptation to climate change in the Latin America and the Caribbean region and serves as catalyst for mobilizing resources, filling knowledge gaps, overcoming barriers to adaptation, and informing effective policymaking. 2. Contribute with the management and monitoring of the “Fostering climate change adaptation in Panama through ecosystem approach for water security at the water basin level” (Resilient Watersheds Panama) Project

Work Location

HOME-BASED

Expected duration

12 MONTHS

Duties and Responsibilities

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the United Nations system’s designated entity for addressing environmental issues at the global and regional level. Its mandate is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LACO), located in Panama City, Panama works closely with the 33 countries of the region and its activities are integrated into the Medium-Term Strategy and the Programme of Work approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA). In terms of addressing climate change, UNEP aims to support countries in the compliance of the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the priority actions defined in the countries Nationally Determined Contributions. The overall objective of UNEP´s Sub-programme on Climate Change is to strengthen the ability of countries to move towards climate-resilient and low emission strategies for sustainable development and human well-being. The expected accomplishment regarding climate change adaptation is that adaptation approaches, including an ecosystem-based approach, are implemented, and integrated into key sectoral and national development strategies to reduce vulnerability and strengthen resilience to climate change impacts. Furthermore, the UNEP´s Sub- programme on Climate Change is also committed to ensure that crosscutting issues such as gender equity and women empowerment are effectively undertaken in the development of its tasks to guarantee an equitable development in line with its adaptation objectives. The adaptation team of the Climate Change Unit is implementing a portfolio of projects and continuously developing a pipeline of new projects, both for adaptation planning and for implementation of concrete measures, in the three subregions of the region: Central America, South America and the Caribbean. The adaptation team works in close coordination with the rest of the Climate Change Unit and regional office, UNEP regional, sub- regional and national offices in the region and worldwide, including Headquarters, other UN System Agencies, Programmes and Funds. Outcome 3 of UNEP’s Medium-Term Strategy aims to support policy/decision-making for climate action, ensuring it is informed by the latest science-based analysis and data. In this context, the Adaptation team at the LAC office will develop a Regional Observatory of Adaptation which will respond to this outcome by: 1. Developing methods and tools to support adaptation reporting (National Adaptation Plans, national communications and other UNFCCC adaptation reporting requirements) both internally and with member states 2. Facilitating the elaboration/improvement of science-based adaptation strategies, plans, policies, legislation and global commitments. 3. Generating and collecting information on the environmental dimension to inform Paris Agreement processes, UN policies, strategies and decisions (Output 3). The Observatory of Adaptation will not only enhance the understanding of climate risks and adaptation solutions but also serve as catalysts for resource mobilization, knowledge generation, and informed policymaking on adaptation. Additionally, the Ministry of Environment of Panama (Miambiente) and UNEP have agreed on the implementation of the project “Fostering climate change adaptation in Panama through ecosystem approach for water security at the water basin level” (Resilient Watersheds of Panama) framed within the cooperation program of EUROCLIMA+. The aim of the project is to transform the planning processes for adaptation to climate change in the water sector in Panama through enhancing climate information for 10 watersheds, strengthening institutional capacities and demonstrating Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) solutions in three watersheds. The project is organized in four main areas of work: (1) Improve and tailor climate data and information for effective adaptation planning and action in the water sector; (2) Enhance institutional capacity for climate-informed adaptation planning in the water sector; (3) Pilot Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) interventions to build resilience of communities and ecosystems in selected watershed; (4) Enhance knowledge management and learning to inform policy making and upscaling of best practices. To fulfill the objectives of the two projects: the Regional Observatory of Adaptation and the Resilient Watershed project of Panama; UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office is recruiting an Adaptation Technical Analyst to provide high quality technical, policy and programming implementation support, as well as knowledge and capacity building services. The Adaptation Technical Analyst will operate under the overall supervision of the UNEP Programme Management Officer for Adaptation of Climate Change Unit for Latin America and the Caribbean Office. Additionally, he/she will work from home. The incumbent work in close collaboration with the UNEP’s Adaptation team, other national consultants and government and non-governmental counterparts. Travel might be needed for consultation processes.

Qualifications/special skills

ACADEMIC • Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences, environmental engineering, development studies, social sciences or any other related field is required. PROFESSIONAL: • Four (4) years of relevant working experience in environmental/water management or climate change adaptation is required. • Experience in planning, implementation or monitoring and report of national, sectorial plans, programs, and/or projects related to climate change and/or environment is desirable. • Previous experience with progress and financial reports of environment/climate change projects is desirable. • Familiarity with adaptation goals, indicators, metrics of adaptation at local, national or global level is an asset. LANGUAGE: • Fluent in Spanish is required. • Fluent in English is required. SKILLS: • Proficiency in MS Office (MS Word, Power Point, Excel and Outlook) software applications. Proficiency in design and layout software packages is required. • Ability to communicate complex issues in a language and format that is appropriate to specific target audiences. • Ability to analyze and have critical thinking on financial and administrative management. • Strategic vision to analyze project´s expenditures, and their contribution to the compliance of objectives and scope established. • Ability to work with different stakeholders, their interests and priorities, in favor of the project’s progress. • Ability and willingness to travel to urban and rural regions of the country. • Excellent interpersonal communication skills and experience in stakeholder engagement and public relations. COMPETENCIES: • Professionalism: Ability to apply knowledge of various United Nations administrative, financial and human resources rules and regulations in work situations. He/she shows pride in work and in achievements; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect; identifies clients’ needs and matches them to appropriate solutions. • Communication: Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors’ language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed. • Teamwork: Is able to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team to achieve organizational goals and to take leadership when appropriate; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings. • Planning and Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

Languages

Not available.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.