Associate - DRR, Climate Change and Resilience
Organizational Context
UNFPA is the lead UN agency dedicated to ensuring every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Operating in India since 1974, UNFPA focuses on ending preventable maternal deaths, unmet family planning needs, and gender-based violence. In Odisha, a disaster-prone state, UNFPA integrates gender equality and social inclusion into disaster risk reduction (DRR) and resilience efforts, partnering with the State Disaster Management Authority to promote gender-transformative approaches and strengthen a Gender and Inclusion Cell.
Job Purpose
This role supports the UNFPA Odisha State Office by strengthening the evidence base on gender, population dynamics, climate vulnerability, and resilience. The Associate will conduct preliminary research, compile data, and document findings related to the intersection of climate change, disaster risks, and socio-economic vulnerabilities, particularly for marginalized groups. The position involves assisting in the preparation of knowledge products, concept notes, and proposals, and documenting good practices in gender-transformative DRR. The volunteer will contribute to enhancing community resilience through inclusive and people-centered approaches, working collaboratively with government bodies, UN agencies, and civil society organizations.
Responsibilities
The Associate will support preliminary desk research and evidence compilation on the linkages between climate change, disaster risk, environmental vulnerability, population dynamics, demographic change, gender, and social vulnerability in Odisha. Responsibilities include preparing background notes, policy briefs, and presentations on climate resilience and DRR. The role involves mapping relevant government policies, institutions, and partners working in these areas. The Associate will document UNFPA's partnership with the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), including initiatives and the work of the Gender and Inclusion Cell. They will also document good practices in gender-transformative DRR, climate adaptation, and social inclusion. Additionally, the role includes compiling and organizing disaggregated data, participating in consultations and workshops, contributing to knowledge management, and supporting the preparation of concept notes and proposals for future engagement.
Work Experience
A minimum of 1 month of relevant experience is required. Demonstrated interest or experience in climate change, disaster risk reduction, environment, resilience, population dynamics, or gender is beneficial. Experience in research, evidence compilation, documentation, or preparing presentations is also valuable. Prior volunteer experience or cross-cultural exposure is highly regarded. Proficiency in Microsoft Office/Google Workspace and basic data management tools is needed.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, building trust, commitment, continuous learning, communication, creativity, empowering others, ethics, integrity, knowledge sharing, planning, organization, professionalism, respect for diversity, self-management, technological awareness, vision, and teamwork. Specific skills in research, data analysis, clear written communication, and knowledge management related to climate change, environment, emergency preparedness, crisis response, and reporting are essential.