Climate Risk and Humanitarian Action Associate
Organizational Context
The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) mobilizes and coordinates effective humanitarian action, advocating for the rights of those in need and promoting preparedness. The OCHA Office of the Pacific Islands, based in Suva, supports regional countries with coordination, preparedness, response, information management, advocacy, and financing. This role operates within a context where climate change is escalating humanitarian risks across the Pacific.
Job Purpose
This assignment aims to support OCHA's efforts in addressing the intensifying humanitarian risks in Pacific Island countries driven by climate change. The Associate will contribute to analysis and the development of practical knowledge products that effectively link climate risk information with humanitarian preparedness, coordination, and response strategies. The role is crucial for enhancing the region's resilience and capacity to manage climate-related disasters, ensuring that humanitarian action is informed by the latest data and risk assessments, thereby alleviating human suffering.
Responsibilities
The Climate Risk and Humanitarian Action Associate will support research and analysis on climate-related humanitarian risks and their implications for preparedness and response in the Pacific. Key duties include contributing to risk profiles, briefing notes, and presentations on climate hazards and impacts. The Associate will assist in translating early-warning and hazard information into actionable preparedness products, and analyze compound and cascading risks affecting essential services. Engagement in consultations and workshops with governments and partners on climate-informed humanitarian action is expected, alongside documenting best practices and regional approaches at the intersection of climate risk and humanitarian efforts.
Work Experience
While no specific prior experience is mandated, demonstrated interest or experience (up to two years) in climate risk, environmental science, disaster risk reduction, or humanitarian action is highly desirable. Experience in research, policy analysis, data interpretation, or international cooperation is beneficial. Previous volunteer experience or cross-cultural exposure is an asset. Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize technical information for diverse audiences, are important.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, commitment, continuous learning, communication, integrity, knowledge sharing, planning, organization, professionalism, respect for diversity, self-management, and teamwork. Expertise in energy, climate change, environment, humanitarian affairs, and protection is relevant. Technological awareness and proficiency in Microsoft Office are expected, with familiarity in climate or GIS tools being an asset.