UNDP is Hiring a Lead Climate Information and Early Warning Systems (EWS) Advisor- IPSA-12
Job Title: Lead Climate Information and Early Warning Systems (EWS) Advisor
Location: New York, United States (Remote-based with travel)
Agency: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Grade: IPSA-12
Contract Duration: 1 year
Application Deadline: 6 May 2025
Job ID: 25884
About UNDP
UNDP is the UN’s lead agency for sustainable development, driving global progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its Global Policy Network (GPN) connects technical expertise across fields to deliver integrated policy and program support. The Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) supports implementation of the Strategic Plan, helping countries meet environmental commitments through partnerships and technical guidance.
The newly established UNDP Climate Hub is central to UNDP’s “Climate Promise” — a $4B+ climate portfolio supporting 142+ countries with climate change mitigation and adaptation initiatives. The Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) team promotes whole-of-society approaches to resilience, especially in sectors like agriculture, water, ecosystems, infrastructure, and early warning systems.
Position Overview
The Lead Climate Information and EWS Advisor will serve as the global strategic and technical lead for UNDP’s EWS work under its adaptation portfolio. This role includes shaping policy, driving partnerships, mobilizing funding, and coordinating EWS initiatives globally. The advisor will also represent UNDP in international platforms, including the Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) and Early Warnings for All (EW4All) initiative.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Partnerships
- Provide strategic direction on EWS development and alignment with global frameworks.
- Lead advocacy and policy dialogue with UN agencies, governments, NGOs, donors, and private sector actors.
- Represent UNDP in initiatives like SOFF, REAP, EW4All, and other global climate resilience efforts.
- Act as the focal point for UN-wide coordination on EWS-related activities.
Technical and Policy Support
- Guide the development of EWS-focused knowledge products and policy briefs.
- Support technical advisory for countries on EWS project design and implementation.
- Advise on integration of EWS into National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Programme and Portfolio Management
- Oversee formulation, implementation, and monitoring of EWS-related projects.
- Contribute to UNDP’s pipeline of climate adaptation and EWS programs, including multi-country and vertical fund projects.
Resource Mobilization
- Lead efforts to mobilize resources for EWS through donor engagement, proposal development, and strategic funding plans.
- Support preparation of funding proposals for mechanisms like the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and Adaptation Fund.
Knowledge and Learning
- Document lessons learned, develop guidance materials, and support Communities of Practice.
- Contribute to training, peer review processes, and internal capacity-building.
Qualifications
Education:
- Master’s degree in Climate Change, Environmental Policy, Sustainable Development, or related field (required).
- Bachelor’s degree with 2 additional years of experience will be considered.
Experience:
- At least 10 years (or 12 with a bachelor’s) of relevant experience in climate change adaptation, especially in developing countries.
- Minimum 7 years of experience providing strategic guidance or technical advice on EWS.
- Proven expertise in project design, policy development, and implementation oversight.
- Experience working in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, or the Caribbean.
Desirable:
- Experience with GCF, Adaptation Fund, or other vertical funds.
- Familiarity with UNDP/UN system processes.
- Fluency in French is an advantage.
Other Details
- Work Mode: Remote with international travel (approx. 5–6 missions annually, 4–8 days each).
- Reporting: Reports to the Principal Technical Advisor (PTA) for Climate Change Adaptation, based in New York.
- Equipment: Must provide own laptop and internet access.
- Languages: English (required); French (desirable).
- Security Training: Completion of UN BSAFE training required prior to travel.
UNDP is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and integrity. No application fees are charged at any stage of the recruitment process.
Apply here: UNDP Careers – Lead Climate Information and EWS Advisor
