International Environmental and Social Safeguards Expert
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is implementing the "Strengthening the Climate Resilience of Coastal Areas of the Comoros through Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA)" project. This GEF/LDCF-funded initiative aims to enhance climate resilience in coastal areas of the Comoros through nature-based solutions. The project operates across multiple islands and involves various components, with Component 2 focusing on EbA interventions and soft coastal engineering, representing the highest ESS risk.
Job Purpose
This role provides specialized international environmental and social safeguards (ESS) expertise to the Comoros Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) project. The purpose is to strengthen the project's ESS framework, ensuring compliance with UNEP/GEF requirements. This involves enhancing risk screening, operationalizing the Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF), preparing/reviewing safeguard instruments, and strengthening the capacity of the project's safeguards specialist. The ultimate goal is to enable the timely and compliant implementation of project activities, particularly higher-risk interventions under Component 2, by effectively managing environmental and social risks and supporting informed decision-making.
Responsibilities
The expert will provide specialized technical support to enhance the project's environmental and social safeguards (ESS) framework. Key duties include reviewing project documentation and establishing an ESS methodology, conducting field verification of priority project sites to assess risks and consult stakeholders, and updating the project's Environmental and Social Safeguards Risk Identification Form (SRIF). The role involves operationalizing the approved ESMF, identifying and supporting the preparation or review of necessary site-specific safeguard instruments (e.g., ESIAs, ESMPs), and ensuring these instruments define appropriate mitigation measures, responsibilities, timelines, and monitoring requirements. Additionally, the expert will review and strengthen safeguard-related Terms of Reference for priority technical studies and ESIAs, ensuring they adequately address risks, community consultation, climate resilience, and technical study requirements.
Work Experience
A minimum of 7 years of professional experience in environmental and social safeguards, ESIA, or ESMP is required, with at least 5 years in coastal or marine environments. Demonstrated experience applying UNEP/GEF or similar international standards, preparing/reviewing ESIAs/ESMPs for coastal interventions, and providing technical advice/capacity building on safeguards is essential. Experience in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is advantageous.
Skills
Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS), Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), Environmental and Social Management Planning (ESMP), Coastal/Marine Environment Expertise, UNEP/GEF Safeguard Standards Application, Technical Advice and Capacity Building, Report Preparation, French Language Proficiency.