NDC-P - Climate Science Specialist (Home based Retainer) - Panama City, Panama
Organizational Context
The NDC Partnership Support Unit, jointly hosted by WRI, UNOPS, and UNFCCC, facilitates global climate action by connecting countries with needed resources. The Water, Environment and Climate portfolio within UNOPS manages significant climate initiatives. This role supports Panama's Ministry of Environment in implementing its ambitious climate plan (NDC 3.0) and its commitment to being a net-carbon-sink country.
Job Purpose
This role serves as a crucial scientific and technical resource, bridging the gap between Panama's national climate policy and the scientific community. The Specialist will ensure that territorial planning, climate finance mobilization, and environmental diplomacy are grounded in robust, evidence-based metrics. By coordinating with government focal points and the NDC Partnership Support Unit, the Specialist will translate Panama's ambitious climate governance into measurable, localized resilience, supporting the effective implementation of NDC 3.0 and the 'Panama Pact with Nature'.
Responsibilities
Conduct scientific assessments on climate and environmental trends, providing technical recommendations and policy briefs to inform NDC targets and climate policies. Support the validation and implementation of the National Protocol on Planned Relocations and contribute to pilot projects for community resilience and adaptive planning. Facilitate inter-institutional working groups and strengthen capacities for integrating climate risk into local development plans. Oversee technical follow-up of projects, identify new funding proposals for nature-based solutions, and strengthen coordination among climate finance actors. Maintain strategic alliances with international partners, support participation in multilateral negotiations (e.g., UNFCCC COP31), and promote Panama's leadership in environmental governance. Prepare regular reports on progress, challenges, and recommendations, ensuring thorough documentation of methodologies and findings.
Work Experience
Requires relevant experience in international cooperation, climate adaptation, territorial resilience, and environmental governance. Experience advising senior policymakers on climate or environmental policy is essential. Desired experience includes inter-institutional coordination, working with vulnerable communities, knowledge of Panama's environmental context, and familiarity with UNFCCC processes.
Skills
Climate Change, Project Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Effective Communication, Scientific Assessment, Policy Support, International Cooperation, Data Analysis.