10 Climate Risk jobs in South Africa

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific and technology research organisation that research, develops, localises and diffuses technologies to accelerate socio-economic prosperity in South Africa. The organisation's work contributes to industrial development and supports a capable state. The CSIR has a vacancy for a Research Scientist: Machine Learning and Statistical Modelling for Ocean-Climate Science in the

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a leading scientific and technology research organisation that researches, develops, localises and diffuses technologies to accelerate socio-economic prosperity in South Africa. The organisations work contributes to industrial development and supports a capable state.

Research Scientist: Machine Learning and Statistical Modelling for Ocean-Climate Science
About The Job
The Southern Ocean CarbonClimate Observatory (SOCCO) at the CSIR has a vacancy for
Researc
h
Scientist
in large-scale ocean carbon cycle processes that can apply machine learning, artificial intelligence, and statistical modelling to advancing understanding of global CO? fluxes and their direct policy relevance, positioning the researcher at the forefront of international climate science. By linking Southern Ocean research to global carbon cycle assessments, the successful candidate will work within a dynamic, world-leading team and help shape future strategies for carbon monitoring and management. This position is based in Cape Town.

Key Rsponsibilities

• Lead the development, refinement, and application of machine learning frameworks to improve surface ocean CO? flux estimates, building on SOCCOs flagship ML-based CO? flux product (CSIR-ML6).
• Lead RD and innovation in the development of emerging AI technologies and techniques and application in the field of ocean-climate research
• Evaluate the performance of Earth System Models (CMIP6/7) against the ML-based observational CO? flux product, focusing on:mean-state climatologies,spatial, temporal, and seasonal variability, andlong-term trends.
• Diagnose discrepancies between ocean-climate models and reconstruction products using Observing System Simulation Experiments (OSSEs) and advanced statistical approaches.
• Conduct high-resolution OSSEs to optimize Southern Ocean CO? observing strategies and reduce uncertainty in sink estimates.
• Supervise, train, and mentor postgraduate researchers, contributing to the growth of capacity in AI-driven climate science and advancing its integration into ocean-climate modelling
• Actively contribute to international science-policy processes such as the Global Carbon Budget and State of the Climate reports.
• Contribute actively to the development of competitive research proposals to secure external funding for long term sustainability of research activities.

Qualifications, Skills And Experience

• A Doctoral degree in Earth System Science, Oceanography, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field; with atleast five years proven expertise in machine learning, AI, and high-performance scientific computing;
• At least five years experience applying supervised and unsupervised machine learning methods (e.g., neural networks, gradient boosting, clustering) to environmental or geophysical datasets, including development of approaches to improve predictive skill and model performance;
• Demonstrated ability to work with large, sparse, and heterogeneous datasets, including gap-filling, noise reduction, spatiotemporal post-processing, and integration of observational and model outputs;
• Ability to translate machine learning outputs into climate and environmental science applications;
• Demonstrated track record of international collaboration and publications in leading peer-reviewed journals;
• Excellent communication skills, including capacity-building and postgraduate supervision.

Whats in it for you?
The CSIR Offers

• Flexible hybrid work arrangement;
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Competitive and market-related remuneration packages.
• Total guaranteed salary packages which encompass contributions to the pension fund, risk insurance and medical scheme.
• We openly acknowledge and reward our employees' contributions and accomplishments through our esteemed CSIR Excellence Awards.

PLEASE NOTE THAT FEEDBACK WILL BE GIVEN TO SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES ONLY.
For more info, please email us at Please
do-not
send your applications to this mailbox, it is only for enquiries.

The CSIR is an equal opportunity employer. As such, it is committed to the employment Equity Act and will through the filling of this vacancy, give preference to candidates from designated groups in terms of the Employment Equity Act. By applying for this position at the CSIR, the applicant understands, and agrees that the CSIR may solicit a credit and criminal report from registered credit bureau and/or South African Police Services (in relation to positions that requires trust and honesty and/or entail the handling of cash or finances), and may also verify the applicants educational qualification and employment history.
The CSIR reserves the right to remove the advertisement at any time before the stated closing date and it further reserves the right not to appoint if a suitable candidate is not identified. **

Duty Station:
Uganda (with travel across the region)

Contract Type:
Consultancy / Full-time Assignment

About the Role

Teriya Management Inc. is seeking an experienced
Data Science for Climate and Agriculture Expert
to contribute to an international initiative focused on transforming environmental and agricultural data into actionable insights. The selected expert will play a key role in developing analytical models that integrate climate, satellite, and agricultural datasets to support evidence-based decision-making.

Qualifications and Experience

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and deploy predictive and analytical models using climate, weather, and agricultural datasets.
• Integrate multi-source data (satellite, IoT, and ground-based systems) into unified data pipelines.
• Contribute to the design of a digital data infrastructure supporting agricultural risk management and productivity forecasting.
• Apply machine learning and AI approaches to generate insights for policy, finance, and development applications.
• Collaborate with international experts to align data analytics with sustainable development objectives.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in computer science, Software engineering, Data science/Machine learning, information systems/IT management, Artificial Intelligence
• 5+ years of relevant experience
  applying data science to agriculture, environment, or climate systems.
• Proven ability to work with large, complex datasets and implement ML/DL solutions.
• Experience with geospatial data analysis, remote sensing, and satellite-derived indicators is an asset.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken.

Technical Expertise

• Proven experience in software architecture, databases, APIs, and systems design.
• Ability to analyze and synthesize large, complex datasets into actionable insights.
• Practical experience with GIS, remote sensing, or spatial analytics in agriculture or climate contexts is an advantage.

Language Requirements

• Excellent command of
  English
  , with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.

Additional Information

• The position will require
  regional travel
  , including within Uganda.
• Candidates must be able to lead a diverse, cross-functional team and collaborate with multiple stakeholders.

Why Join Us

This role offers the opportunity to shape innovative data solutions for agriculture, climate, and rural development in Africa. You will work at the intersection of technology, policy, and impact, contributing to scalable solutions that improve decision-making and resource allocation across the agricultural sector.

How to Apply:

Submit your CV (3 pages maximum) and a brief motivation note to:

Please note: Applications sent through other channels will not be accepted; only email submissions will be reviewed.

We are looking for someone who will be responsible for developing carbon strategies to capture value from our clients reduced carbon footprint. This will include advising clients around systematically reducing their carbon intensity of operations. This will require collaboration and coordination with a wide range of stakeholders to understand the clients' operations. You must have a proven track record of developing carbon reduction strategies, ideally within 'the resources sectors.

• Developing Corporate Sustainability and Climate Change services.
• Conduct Climate Change projection/modelling (using available climate data).
• Developing climate risk management and mitigation strategies, including Science based targets and TCFD aligned reporting and guidance.
• Carrying out GHG emissions calculations on behalf of our clients.
• Delivering multiple project tasks or components, including proposals.
• Advising our clients and finding solutions for their ESG and climate change related challenges.
• Identifying and tracking ESG and Climate Change trends, best practices, frameworks and standards and communicating those relevant to internal and external stakeholders and using information to develop new services and client offering.
• Forming and maintaining a network of relationships to support climate change efforts.
• Networking and growing strong relationships with clients and other partners in the market.
• Carry out field work.

Key Requirements

• Excellent verbal communication skills to build and maintain relationships with Senior executives.
• A flair for writing; you will enjoy transforming information and data into compelling copy and infographics.
• Strong project and time management skills.
• A willingness to travel.
• Interest in and knowledge of the mining sector is preferable
• A flexible, pragmatic, and innovative approach project development and delivery.
• Fluency in English is essential, working knowledge of another language particularly French or Spanish would be advantageous.

Qualifications

• Post graduate degree preferably in Environmental Sciences or Sustainability.
• Project Management Certificate would be beneficial.

Work Experience

• Three to Four years relevant experience in Climate Change or Sustainability advisory or similar.
• Carbon management and strategy experience.
• Experience undertaking GHG accounting including GHG Protocol and Carbon Reporting.
• Scope 1, 2 & 3 GHG Accounting+ Reporting.
• Experience of target setting approaches and best practice, including development and lodging of Science-based targets initiatives. Understanding of net-zero approaches for companies, including approach to residual emissions and offsetting.
• Working familiarity with the recommendations of TCFD including supporting organisations in their response
• Experience delivering assurance/ verification of environmental information and reporting
• Experience in the carbon credit markets advantageous

We are looking for someone who will be responsible for developing carbon strategies to capture value from our clients reduced carbon footprint. This will include advising clients around systematically reducing their carbon intensity of operations. This will require collaboration and coordination with a wide range of stakeholders to understand the clients' operations. You must have a proven track record of developing carbon reduction strategies, ideally within 'the resources sectors.

• Developing Corporate Sustainability and Climate Change services.
• Conduct Climate Change projection/modelling (using available climate data).
• Developing climate risk management and mitigation strategies, including Science based targets and TCFD aligned reporting and guidance.
• Carrying out GHG emissions calculations on behalf of our clients.
• Delivering multiple project tasks or components, including proposals.
• Advising our clients and finding solutions for their ESG and climate change related challenges.
• Identifying and tracking ESG and Climate Change trends, best practices, frameworks and standards and communicating those relevant to internal and external stakeholders and using information to develop new services and client offering.
• Forming and maintaining a network of relationships to support climate change efforts.
• Networking and growing strong relationships with clients and other partners in the market.
• Carry out field work.

Key Requirements

• Excellent verbal communication skills to build and maintain relationships with Senior executives.
• A flair for writing; you will enjoy transforming information and data into compelling copy and infographics.
• Strong project and time management skills.
• A willingness to travel.
• Interest in and knowledge of the mining sector is preferable
• A flexible, pragmatic, and innovative approach project development and delivery.
• Fluency in English is essential, working knowledge of another language particularly French or Spanish would be advantageous.

Qualifications

• Post graduate degree preferably in Environmental Sciences or Sustainability.
• Project Management Certificate would be beneficial.

Work Experience

• Three to Four years relevant experience in Climate Change or Sustainability advisory or similar.
• Carbon management and strategy experience.
• Experience undertaking GHG accounting including GHG Protocol and Carbon Reporting.
• Scope 1, 2 & 3 GHG Accounting+ Reporting.
• Experience of target setting approaches and best practice, including development and lodging of Science-based targets initiatives. Understanding of net-zero approaches for companies, including approach to residual emissions and offsetting.
• Working familiarity with the recommendations of TCFD including supporting organisations in their response
• Experience delivering assurance/ verification of environmental information and reporting
• Experience in the carbon credit markets is advantageous

We are looking for someone who will be responsible for developing carbon strategies to capture value from our clients reduced carbon footprint. This will include advising clients around systematically reducing their carbon intensity of operations. This will require collaboration and coordination with a wide range of stakeholders to understand the clients' operations. You must have a proven track record of developing carbon reduction strategies, ideally within ‘the resources sectors.

• Developing Corporate Sustainability and Climate Change services.


• Conduct Climate Change projection/modelling (using available climate data).


• Developing climate risk management and mitigation strategies, including Science based targets and TCFD aligned reporting and guidance.


• Carrying out GHG emissions calculations on behalf of our clients.


• Delivering multiple project tasks or components, including proposals.


• Advising our clients and finding solutions for their ESG and climate change related challenges.


• Identifying and tracking ESG and Climate Change trends, best practices, frameworks and standards and communicating those relevant to internal and external stakeholders and using information to develop new services and client offering.


• Forming and maintaining a network of relationships to support climate change efforts.


• Networking and growing strong relationships with clients and other partners in the market.


• Carry out field work.

Key Requirements

• Excellent verbal communication skills to build and maintain relationships with Senior executives.


• A flair for writing; you will enjoy transforming information and data into compelling copy and infographics.


• Strong project and time management skills.


• A willingness to travel.


• Interest in and knowledge of the mining sector is preferable


• A flexible, pragmatic, and innovative approach project development and delivery.


• Fluency in English is essential, working knowledge of another language particularly French or Spanish would be advantageous.

Qualifications

• Post graduate degree preferably in Environmental Sciences or Sustainability.


• Project Management Certificate would be beneficial.

Work Experience

• Three to Four years relevant experience in Climate Change or Sustainability advisory or similar.


• Carbon management and strategy experience.


• Experience undertaking GHG accounting including GHG Protocol and Carbon Reporting.


• Scope 1, 2 & 3 GHG Accounting+ Reporting.


• Experience of target setting approaches and best practice, including development and lodging of Science-based targets initiatives. Understanding of net-zero approaches for companies, including approach to residual emissions and offsetting.


• Working familiarity with the recommendations of TCFD including supporting organisations in their response


• Experience delivering assurance/ verification of environmental information and reporting


• Experience in the carbon credit markets is advantageous

• Role:
  Senior Consultant:
  Climate Change & Environmental Compliance
• Location:
  Midrand, Johannesburg/Hybrid (with local & international travel)
• Technical Division/Team:
  Climate Change & Environmental Compliance
• Reports To:
  Executive Manager

About GSG

Greenfield Sustainable Group (GSG) is an emerging blue-chip environmental consulting firm based in Midrand, Johannesburg, and distinguished by its technical excellence, strategic partnerships, and ability to deliver high-impact solutions across the environment, climate, and natural resources nexus. With a growing reputation for professionalism and innovation, GSG combines international best practice with deep local knowledge to support clients ranging from industries and corporates, to DFIs, multilateral agencies and the public sector. Guided by its vision to become a leading African sustainability consultancy by 2035, GSG is committed to delivering cutting-edge, bankable, and compliant solutions that drive environmental resilience, sustainable development, and inclusive growth, while positioning itself as a trusted partner in shaping Africa's green economy.

Role Purpose

The Senior Consultant is responsible for leading small-to-medium consulting projects, managing technical teams, engaging clients and regulators, and ensuring the highest quality of deliverables. This role requires strategic thinking, technical depth, and leadership skills to position GSG as a trusted partner for high-profile projects. Senior Consultants are expected to mentor juniors, lead proposals, and contribute to GSG's growth as a leading African environmental consultancy.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Leadership & Delivery

• Lead and coordinate
  multi-disciplinary projects (small-to-medium sized)
  from inception to completion.
• Develop scopes of work and schedules, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery.
• Manage client expectations, project risks, and contractual obligations.

2. Technical Excellence

• Climate Change:
  Develop climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, conduct GHG inventories, and design frameworks aligned with TCFD, SASB, and IFC PS.
• Environmental Compliance:
  Manage EIAs, Scoping Reports, EMPrs, and regulatory applications (WULA, AEL, IWMP), ensuring compliance with NEMA and IFC standards.
• Review, manage and sign-off on technical and specialist reports.

3. Stakeholder & Client Engagement

• Lead stakeholder and regulator consultations, and public participation meetings.
• Present technical findings persuasively to stakeholders.
• Build and maintain long-term client relationships.

4. Research & Innovation

• Identify and introduce innovative tools, methodologies, and best practices.
• Drive integration of ESG, climate, and sustainability into consulting outputs.

5. Business Development

• Lead preparation of technical and financial proposals, tenders, and responses.
• Identify business opportunities and strategic partnerships.
• Support Directors in developing new service offerings and market strategies.

6. Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Supervise and mentor junior and associate consultants.
• Conduct training sessions, and knowledge-sharing workshops.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, excellence, and innovation.

7. Professional Standards & Compliance

• Uphold professional ethics and ensure compliance with OHSA, POPIA, etc.
• Represent GSG as a credible and respected consulting partner.

Qualifications & Skills

• Education:
  MSc/PhD in Environmental Sciences, Climate Change, or related.
• Minimum 5 years' consulting experience, with at least 2 years in project leadership.
• Professional Registration:
  Pr. EAP (EAPASA) and/or Pr.Sci.Nat. (SACNASP) required.
• Technical Mastery:
• Climate:
  Corporate/municipal GHG inventories, climate strategies, IFRS S1 & S2, TCFD-aligned risk assessments, SBTi/net-zero roadmaps, climate finance mechanisms (GCF, AfDB).
• EIA:
  Complex EIAs, EMPr performance metrics, licensing strategies (WULA/AEL/IWMP), IFC PS/Equator Principles alignment, stakeholder engagement in high-sensitivity projects.
• Methodologies & Standards:
  Knowledge of IFC PS, Equator Principles, ISO 14001/19011, IPCC guidelines etc.
• Software & Tools:
  Proficiency in specialised analytical techniques and project management tools, including any of the following: Python, R, Lumina Analytica, GIS and remote sensing, advanced Excel (Power Query), MS Project or ClickUp, BI tools (Power BI, Tableau).
• Project & Commercial:
  Skilled in preparing budgets, negotiating scope changes, and managing risks.
• Client & Stakeholder:
  Experienced in board-level presentations, sensitive stakeholder facilitation, conflict resolution.
• Mentorship:
  Proven record of mentoring juniors/associates, conducting reviews, and running training sessions.
• Strong knowledge of South African climate and environmental legislation; international policies, frameworks and guidelines.
• Proficiency with climate models, ESG frameworks, & environmental management tools.

Competencies & Attributes

• Leadership presence – inspires confidence in clients and teams.
• Strategic thinker – aligns technical delivery with GSG's growth vision.
• Mentorship ability – develops juniors and associates into leaders.
• Resilient & courageous – performs under pressure and makes ethical decisions.
• Innovative & forward-looking – introduces new approaches to problem-solving.
• Loyal & trustworthy – protects GSG's brand and client trust.

Application Process

• Apply on LINKEDIN.
• Submit detailed CV with work experience and project details (your role, project scope and deliverable); and evidence of project leadership (e.g., authored sample reports).
• Shortlisted candidates will undergo a
  two-phase process
  :
• Phase 1: Technical & HR Screening.
• Phase 2: Cultural & Leadership Fit.
• All applications will be responded to via the LinkedIn platform. However, if you have not received feedback within 21 days of submission, please consider your application unsuccessful.
• Please note that a probationary period of 3 to 6 months applies to this position.
• GSG reserves the right not to fill a position or to withdraw an opening should the circumstances of the offer change.

SENIOR CONSULTANT: CLIMATE CHANGE & ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE

• Role:
  Senior Consultant:
  Climate Change & Environmental Compliance
• Location:
  Midrand, Johannesburg/Hybrid (with local & international travel)
• Technical Division/Team:
  Climate Change & Environmental Compliance
• Reports To:
  Executive Manager

About GSG

Greenfield Sustainable Group (GSG) is an emerging blue-chip environmental consulting firm based in Midrand, Johannesburg, and distinguished by its technical excellence, strategic partnerships, and ability to deliver high-impact solutions across the environment, climate, and natural resources nexus. With a growing reputation for professionalism and innovation, GSG combines international best practice with deep local knowledge to support clients ranging from industries and corporates, to DFIs, multilateral agencies and the public sector. Guided by its vision to become a leading African sustainability consultancy by 2035, GSG is committed to delivering cutting-edge, bankable, and compliant solutions that drive environmental resilience, sustainable development, and inclusive growth, while positioning itself as a trusted partner in shaping Africa's green economy.

Role Purpose

The Senior Consultant is responsible for leading small-to-medium consulting projects, managing technical teams, engaging clients and regulators, and ensuring the highest quality of deliverables. This role requires strategic thinking, technical depth, and leadership skills to position GSG as a trusted partner for high-profile projects. Senior Consultants are expected to mentor juniors, lead proposals, and contribute to GSG's growth as a leading African environmental consultancy.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Leadership & Delivery

• Lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary projects
  (small-to-medium sized)
  from inception to completion.
• Develop scopes of work and schedules, ensuring on-time and within-budget delivery.
• Manage client expectations, project risks, and contractual obligations.

2. Technical Excellence

• Climate Change:
  Develop climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies, conduct GHG inventories, and design frameworks aligned with TCFD, SASB, and IFC PS.
• Environmental Compliance:
  Manage EIAs, Scoping Reports, EMPrs, and regulatory applications (WULA, AEL, IWMP), ensuring compliance with NEMA and IFC standards.
• Review, manage and sign-off on technical and specialist reports.

3. Stakeholder & Client Engagement

• Lead stakeholder and regulator consultations, and public participation meetings.
• Present technical findings persuasively to stakeholders.
• Build and maintain long-term client relationships.

4. Research & Innovation

• Identify and introduce innovative tools, methodologies, and best practices.
• Drive integration of ESG, climate, and sustainability into consulting outputs.

5. Business Development

• Lead preparation of technical and financial proposals, tenders, and responses.
• Identify business opportunities and strategic partnerships.
• Support Directors in developing new service offerings and market strategies.

6. Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Supervise and mentor junior and associate consultants.
• Conduct training sessions, and knowledge-sharing workshops.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, excellence, and innovation.

7. Professional Standards & Compliance

• Uphold professional ethics and ensure compliance with OHSA, POPIA, etc.
• Represent GSG as a credible and respected consulting partner.

Qualifications & Skills

·
Education:
MSc/PhD in Environmental Sciences, Climate Change, or related.

· Minimum 5 years' consulting experience, with at least 2 years in project leadership.

·
Professional Registration:
Pr. EAP (EAPASA) and/or Pr.Sci.Nat. (SACNASP) required.

·
Technical Mastery:

o   
Climate:
Corporate/municipal GHG inventories, climate strategies, IFRS S1 & S2, TCFD-aligned risk assessments, SBTi/net-zero roadmaps, climate finance mechanisms (GCF, AfDB).

o   
EIA:
Complex EIAs, EMPr performance metrics, licensing strategies (WULA/AEL/IWMP), IFC PS/Equator Principles alignment, stakeholder engagement in high-sensitivity projects.

·
Methodologies & Standards:
Knowledge of IFC PS, Equator Principles, ISO 14001/19011, IPCC guidelines etc.

·
Software & Tools:
Proficiency in specialised analytical techniques and project management tools, including any of the following: Python, R,
Lumina Analytica,
GIS and remote sensing, advanced Excel (Power Query), MS Project or ClickUp, BI tools (Power BI, Tableau).

·
Project & Commercial:
Skilled in preparing budgets, negotiating scope changes, and managing risks.

·
Client & Stakeholder:
Experienced in board-level presentations, sensitive stakeholder facilitation, conflict resolution.

·
Mentorship:
Proven record of mentoring juniors/associates, conducting reviews, and running training sessions.

· Strong knowledge of South African climate and environmental legislation; international policies, frameworks and guidelines.

· Proficiency with climate models, ESG frameworks, & environmental management tools.

Competencies & Attributes

• Leadership presence – inspires confidence in clients and teams.
• Strategic thinker – aligns technical delivery with GSG's growth vision.
• Mentorship ability – develops juniors and associates into leaders.
• Resilient & courageous – performs under pressure and makes ethical decisions.
• Innovative & forward-looking – introduces new approaches to problem-solving.
• Loyal & trustworthy – protects GSG's brand and client trust.

Application Process

• Apply on LINKEDIN via the link: 
• Submit detailed CV with work experience and project details (your role, project scope and deliverable); and evidence of project leadership (e.g., sample authored reports).
• Shortlisted candidates will undergo a
  two-phase process
  :
• Phase 1: Technical & HR Screening.
• Phase 2: Cultural & Leadership Fit.
• All applications will be responded to via the LinkedIn platform. However, if you have not received feedback within 21 days of submission, please consider your application unsuccessful.
• Please note that a probationary period of 3 to 6 months applies to this position.
• GSG reserves the right not to fill a position or to withdraw an opening should the circumstance of the offer change.

Shape the Future with GIZ

Bring your expertise in climate change policy to an international organisation driving sustainable development. Based at the GIZ offices in Hatfield, Pretoria, you will join the Climate Support Programme Phase 4 (CSP4) team, working closely with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). This full-time role runs until 31 December 2026.

As a Technical Advisor: Climate Change Policy, you will provide high-level policy advice, manage technical workstreams, and guide consulting firms in delivering quality outputs. You will play a key role in supporting South Africa's climate mitigation, adaptation, and monitoring & evaluation strategies.

To apply, please submit a detailed CV (max. 2 pages, including nationality) together with a motivation letter (max. 2 pages) explaining why you are the best suited for the role. Only complete applications will be considered.

Closing date for applications: 26 September 2025

Only shortlisted candidates will be informed and must complete an assignment before the interview.

What You Will Be Doing

• Provide strategic policy advice on climate change mitigation in the Energy, Industry and Transport sectors, as well as adaptation strategies and emissions monitoring
• Support DFFE and partner institutions in designing and implementing climate change projects and policies
• Oversee and ensure quality of consulting firms, including procurement processes and drafting terms of reference
• Manage technical workstreams on climate policy, institutional support, and implementation mechanisms
• Contribute to mainstreaming mitigation measures into adaptation response plans for the public and private sector
• Collaborate on adaptation-related activities within the Climate Cluster
• Plan and facilitate stakeholder consultations, ensuring strong knowledge management and dissemination
• Prepare high-quality briefing materials for German ministries with minimal supervision

Required Qualifications, Competencies and Experiences

Qualifications

• University degree in Climate Change, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Energy (Efficiency), Finance/Economics, Business Administration or Engineering
• Post-graduate qualification will be an advantage

Professional Experience

• Minimum of 5 years' relevant work experience in climate change and project management, advisory or consulting services
• Extensive knowledge of South African and international climate policy, particularly in Energy, Just Transition, Industry and Transport
• Proven experience with South Africa's UNFCCC commitments and international climate policy processes
• In-depth knowledge of GHG emission modelling, transition pathways, and environmental policy instruments (carbon tax, budgets, trading systems), including inventories
• Solid understanding of South African energy policy and the Just Transition agenda
• Experience in integrated project management, proposal development and securing donor funding
• Familiarity with South Africa's public and private sector landscape, with established networks in climate and energy

Other Competences

• Excellent analytical, writing and communication skills with the ability to produce and edit complex materials
• Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills with political awareness and solution orientation
• Proven experience in managing service providers and technically guiding expert teams
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently under pressure and within deadlines
• Passionate about climate change, sustainability and advancing the green economy

Why Work with Us?

At GIZ, we believe in diversity, respect and equal opportunity. As a signatory to the Diversity Charter, we value all employees regardless of gender, identity, origin, belief, disability, social background, age or orientation. Applications from women and historically marginalised groups are strongly encouraged.

Purpose of Assignment:

UNFPA is the United Nations lead agency that works with governments and partners to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person's potential is fulfilled.

In 2019, UNFPA organized an International Symposium on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), Gender and Climate Resilience, identifying opportunities to reduce the impacts of climate change on SRHR and build the resilience of communities in vulnerable settings. The symposium brought together a number of stakeholders, including youth climate activists, academia, civil society and development practitioners and produced the Future Africa Call to Action which was presented at the Nairobi Summit in 2019. The outcome of the symposium also informed the first-ever UNFPA value proposition on climate change .

Six years after, building on identified gaps at the intersection of the climate-gender-SRHR and GBV discourse within global development and international climate process, and the growing scope of UNFPA climate work at regional and country level, UNFPA convened a second Global Symposium on Climate Justice and Impacted Populations: Rights in a Changing Climate: Sexual and Reproductive Health and Gender Equality from July 2025 in Brasilia that produced the Brasilia Call to Action . The global SRHR, GBV and climate community took stock and made forward looking recommendations, including in the context of the upcoming COP30.

Informed by latest evidence and developments, UNFPA is updating its climate change value proposition 2.0, building on the developments and lessons learned since 2019. While UNFPA has increasingly positioned the ICPD PoA within climate discussions, there is a need for practical and field-focused programmatic guidance on climate change to strengthen the relevance and impact of UNFPA's programmes and operations for women, girls and youth through integration of climate change adaptation and resilience including intersecting aspects of disaster risk reduction (preparedness and anticipatory action). (LB1) (LB2)

To this end, UNFPA seeks a consultant to develop a practical programmatic guidance document focused on climate change adaptation and resilience, also addresses mitigation co-benefits of both, for country offices to ensure the formulation and implementation of gender-responsive, climate adaptation and resilient interventions at the intersection SRHR, Gender, Youth, GBV, and harmful practices (HP) alongside the humanitarian-development-peace continuum.

The consultant will report directly to the hiring managers in ESARO and the Programme Division of UNFPA. The consultant will also be available for virtual consultations, discussions and presentations to the UNFPA Interdivisional Technical Working Group on Climate Change (IDTWGCC) as required.

Scope of work:

1. Research, Scope and Outline Development for the Programmatic Guidance

In close collaboration with the UNFPA IDTWGCC:

1.1. Review UNFPA publications and documents including the 2019 and 2025 Climate Change Value Propositions, 2025 Global Symposium report, ICPD30 Thinkpiece on Climate Action , the UNFPA CPD guidance note, and other UN agencies/partner organisations' guidance and publications including UNDRR-ISC Hazard Information Profiles (HIPs), Integrating Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation in the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework etc, for existing climate references, their significance, analysis of gaps that have emerged as well as new priorities over the past 6 years;

1.2. Review UNFPA's existing work (global, regional, country levels) on climate change at programmatic, policy, research levels, gathering information on UNFPA's project interventions that integrate a climate adaptation and resilience angle, including in mixed contexts with climate change exacerbated hazards impacting on existing conflict situations;

1.3. Review UNFPA corporate strategic plans , the new strategic plan , and accompanying global and regional programmes (GRP) to explain and put into evidence the extent of climate change integration within programming at HQ, regional and country levels;

1.4. Draft an annotated outline of the programmatic guidance based on the reviews conducted above, to be reviewed by the IDTWGCC.

1. Global Internal Consultation and Survey on Existing UNFPA's Climate Change Programmes and Projects

2.1. Hold multiple joint and bilateral consultations with UNFPA HQ, Regional and Country Office colleagues on the outline and scope of the programmatic guidance;

2.2. Integrate feedback, as may be relevant, into a final agreed outline, with flexibility for relevant changes;

2.3. Ensure the programmatic guidance is simple to follow and can be easily implementable for UNFPA colleagues with limited climate knowledge;

2.4. Create and launch a Google form for a global internal survey across UNFPA HQ, regional and country offices on existing climate change programmes and projects;

2.5. Analyze global survey results to further inform the final version of the programmatic guidance, with attention to regional contexts.

1. Programmatic Guidance Development and Finalization (in English for publication to be submitted as Word document)

3.1. Develop a comprehensive, practical and concise draft version of the programmatic guidance. This draft should include:

3.1.1. Key practical entry points and suggested climate change adaptation /resilience programmatic interventions related to GBV, SRHR, HP, Population Dynamics / Data and Youth, grounded in local realities and based on needs identified by country offices in consultation with affected populations;

3.1.2. Clear and concise unique key pillars of UNFPA existing and proposed engagement in climate action, aligned with the SP, and its integrated results and resources framework;

3.1.3. Define climate change adaptation and resilience, in the context of ICPD PoA / UNFPA mandate areas;

3.1.4. Key advocacy points for the nexus of climate change and UNFPA mandate areas;

3.1.5. Specific examples of climate change adaptation and resilience interventions for SRHR, Gender, GBV/HP, demographic resilience (based on contextual entry points e.g. stable development settings / fragile / protracted humanitarian contexts), including hazard-specific adaptation examples, potential partnerships for climate financing with food and water security impacts, climate programming on conflict sensitivity/analysis, peacebuilding, and climate security, and shock-responsive MPAs/APAs, 'what works' and 'what does not work';

3.2. Finalize the programmatic guidance based on IDTWG CC feedback and broad consultations (including with external stakeholders as maybe relevant);

3.3. Ensure that the programmatic guidance speaks distinctively to UNFPA's niche of work on climate change, drawing on UNFPA's mandate and comparative advantage, while being future-oriented, based on reliable climate projections and predicted impact on the populations and countries UNFPA serves

1. Capacity Building Plan

4.1. Suggest a 3-pager on capacity development plan for field staff and IPs on how (i) CC impacts delivery on programmes that aim to accelerate progress towards the transformative results, and (ii) CC integration into programme development and implementation, based on the programmatic guidance;

4.2. Prepare a presentation for country offices on how to use the programmatic guidance .

Duration and working schedule:

The assignment starts on 8 September and needs to be completed by 30 January 2026

Place where services are to be delivered:

The concluded work is to be submitted electronically to the hiring manager at UNFPA HQ.

Delivery dates and how work will be delivered:

The selected consultant will be expected to deliver all work electronically by 30 January 2026. Below person days / per deliverable are estimates that may vary while the overall total number of person days cannot exceed 40 days and the deadlines for submission of respective deliverables cannot be modified.

Deliverable

Person days

Deadline

Desk review of existing UNFPA and other partner documents

9 days

19 September

Develop an Annotated Outline and Scope of Programming Guidance

2 days

23 September

Launch internal consultations

½ days

23 September

Finalize outline and commence drafting

1 days

30 September

Create form for global internal survey and launch survey

½ days

11 September

Analyze global survey results

3 days

7 October

Develop and share draft programming guidance for first consultation

15 days

24th October

Integrate feedback from first consultation round

3 days

14th November

Share draft programming guidance for second consultation round

½ days

14th November

Integrate feedback from second consultation round

2 day

5th December

Integrate additional feedback and share final programming guidance (in word file) for editing

1 days

19 December

Share final programming guidance after professional editing and proofreading (in word file) for design and publication

1.5 days

30 January

Prepare presentation for capacity building on how to use guidance note for country offices

1 days

30 January

40 days

Monitoring and progress control, including reporting requirements, periodicity format and deadline:

The selected consultant will be required to provide regular updates via email and calls to monitor adherence to tight production schedules.

Supervisory arrangements:

The selected consultant will work under the supervision of the hiring managers, Chiagozie Programme Specialist Climate Adaptation and Innovation, UNFPA ESARO and the Deputy Director, UNFPA Programme Division

Expected travel: The consultant is not expected to travel; the deliverables will be done virtually.

Required expertise, qualifications and competencies, including language requirements:

The selected consultant must meet the following minimum criteria:

Experience and Education

Essential Education:

• An advanced degree or equivalent level in one of the following fields: Public health, Law, Medical Demography, Development Studies, Health Economics, Environmental Studies, Climate Change, Social Policy, or other related relevant expertise;
• Proven expertise in climate change adaptation or disaster risk reduction concepts, trends and related practice.
• Experience of a minimum of 10 years working in the development and humanitarian sector, with a specific focus on climate change, is required and past experience in working with the UN, in particular at inter-agency cooperation level, is an added advantage;
• Demonstrated experience of successfully working on SRHR, gender equality, gender-based violence, women empowerment and health system assessment
• Demonstrated previous experience in assessing the impact of climate change on gender-based violence, harmful practices and SRHR/ health systems management.
• Verifiable experience in production of quality programming guidance, study reports or similar programming tools;
• Proven experience in formulation of operational research papers around ICPD PoA and climate change adaptation and resilience;
• Experience working in humanitarian or development contexts in hazard prone countries;
• Strong analytical, report writing, communication, and computer skills.
• Examples of previous articles and papers should accompany applications
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Desirable:

• Knowledge of sexual and reproductive health and rights programming, particularly for adolescent girls and young women.
• Knowledge of climate, SRHR, gender and ICPD PoA intersections.
• Well versed with the climate programming processes, including with regard to climate financing.
• Experience of writing and/or editing UNFPA publications and/or communication materials preferred.

Skills:

Essential:

• Excellent writing and editing skills, and attention to detail.
• Excellent coordination and planning skills
• Proven ability to work effectively and tactfully in an interdisciplinary, multicultural, and multilingual environment.
• Ability to work under pressure and respect deadlines.
• Excellent administrative skills, proven ability to use Microsoft Office applications, and to conduct Internet searches.

Desirable:

• Some degree of specialization in one or more of the fields of activity of UNFPA related to our key mandate areas.

Languages required

Essential: Expert knowledge of English, knowledge of any additional official UN language is an asset.

Inputs/services to be provided by UNFPA, if applicable:

UNFPA will provide all relevant background documents to help inform the writing process, as well as guidance for clarification purposes.

Other relevant information or special conditions, if any:

First payment on meeting 50 percent of the deliverable; second payment on submission of draft programming guidance and final payment on submission & acceptance of the final proofread version of the programming guidance.

Required Competencies:

Values:

• Exemplifying integrity,
• Demonstrating commitment to UNFPA and the UN system,
• Embracing cultural diversity,
  Embracing change

Core Competencies:

• Achieving results,
• Being accountable,
• Developing and applying professional expertise/business acumen,
• Thinking analytically and strategically,
  Working in teams/managing ourselves and our relationships

How to apply: Your application attachments must include: a brief motivation letter, detailed CV, concise methodology on how the consultancy will be carried out, and a draft outline (table of contents) of the Vital Statistics training curriculum/manual.

UNFPA Work Environment:

UNFPA provides a work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, diversity, integrity and healthy work-life balance. We are committed to ensuring gender parity in the organization and therefore encourage women to apply. Individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups are highly encouraged to apply. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation and selection for all regardless of personal characteristics and dimensions of diversity. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is at the heart of UNFPA's workforce - click here to learn more.

Disclaimer:

Selection and appointment may be subject to background and reference checks, medical clearance, visa issuance and other administrative requirements.

UNFPA does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process and does not concern itself with information on applicants' bank accounts.

Applicants for positions in the international Professional and higher categories, who hold permanent resident status in a country other than their country of nationality, may be required to renounce such status upon their appointment.