CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION OFFICER, SOLOMON ISLANDS

GGGI began its operations in the Solomon Islands in 2019, focusing on capacity building, renewable energy, inclusive development, and climate change adaptation. GGGI is now implementing the Strengthening Inclusive Adaptation Capacity in Solomon Islands (SIAC-SI) project, which aims to enhance the country’s capacity to adapt to climate change through systematic vulnerability assessments, development and implementation of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), and resource mobilization.

POSITION SUMMARY

To ensure the effective technical implementation of the SIAC-SI project, GGGI seeks a qualified and experienced Climate Change Adaptation Officer to join the Solomon Islands team. This position will provide technical leadership in climate change adaptation, ensuring the successful delivery of project objectives while supporting other GGGI initiatives in the country.

PURPOSE

• The Climate Change Adaptation Officer will provide technical leadership for the SIAC-SI project, overseeing climate vulnerability assessments, adaptation planning, and the development of future climate scenarios. The role will drive the formulation and implementation of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), ensuring alignment with national priorities, UNFCCC standards, and the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets. Additionally, the Officer will support the drafting of Terms of References (TORs) for firms and consultants engaged in Climate Risk Vulnerability Assessments (CRVA) and adaptation processes.

• Beyond the SIAC-SI project, the Officer will offer technical advisory services for other GGGI projects related to climate adaptation, ensuring coherence across programs and the broader climate resilience agenda in the Solomon Islands. The role will involve developing technical tools, methodologies, and capacity-building initiatives, including targeted training programs for government stakeholders and local communities to enhance adaptation efforts.

• A key function of this position is to facilitate multi-stakeholder engagement by organizing technical workshops, consultations, and policy discussions. The Officer will work closely with government agencies, development partners, and local communities to ensure inclusive and effective adaptation planning. The role also includes supporting government counterparts in finalizing and submitting the NAP to the UNFCCC while mobilizing resources for climate adaptation initiatives.

• This position reports directly to the Senior Program Officer and collaborates closely with the Regional Technical Lead, Country Representative, government stakeholders, and development partners to implement adaptation solutions and strengthen institutional capacity.

ENGAGEMENT

• Collaborate with and support the Senior Program Officer, project team, and government counterparts to ensure alignment with national adaptation and NDC priorities.

• Engage with development partners, donors, GGGI country teams and regional organizations to leverage technical expertise and resources.

• Facilitate multi-stakeholder consultations and workshops to inform adaptation planning and decision-making processes.

• Establish partnerships with academic institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector to advance climate adaptation initiatives.

• Represent GGGI in technical forums, conferences, and events to showcase project achievements and share best practices.

DELIVERY

• Lead and provide technical support for climate vulnerability assessments, including the collection of data on past climate scenarios and supporting the development of future climate scenarios. Integrate findings into adaptation planning and implementation processes.

• Draft and finalize Terms of Reference (TORs) for firms and individual consultants involved in the CRVA, NAP processes, and adaptation planning.

• Oversee the development and finalization of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), ensuring alignment with international frameworks, national priorities, and UNFCCC standards.

• Facilitate the identification of priority sectors and areas for CRVA and NAP development, ensuring alignment with the country's NDC targets and adaptation goals.

• Organize and lead technical workshops and multi-stakeholder consultations to support NAP development and implementation.

• Provide technical support to government counterparts in preparing and submitting the finalized NAP to the UNFCCC.

• Develop technical tools, methodologies, and frameworks to enhance climate adaptation and resilience-building efforts.

• Conduct capacity gap assessments to identify expertise, skills, systems, policies, and process needs at the national level for NAP implementation.

• Collaborate with consultancy firms to design and deliver targeted training programs and knowledge-sharing activities for government stakeholders and local communities, addressing capacity gaps identified in the assessment.

• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of adaptation interventions, providing actionable recommendations for improvement.

• Prepare high-quality technical reports, policy briefs, and case studies for internal and external stakeholders to document project progress and lessons learned.

• Ensure all project deliverables meet GGGI’s standards and donor requirements.

• Provide technical advisory services for other GGGI projects in the Solomon Islands, fostering synergies and promoting sustainable development.

REQUIREMENTS

QUALIFICATIONS

• Advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Climate Change, Environmental Science/Engineering, Natural Resource Management, or a related field.

• At least 3 to 5 years of professional experience in climate adaptation, vulnerability assessments, and policy development, preferably in the Pacific region.

• Demonstrated expertise in developing or involved in developing of National Adaptation Plans (NAPs) and Climate Vulnerability Risk Assessments (CRVA) and other climate-related strategies.

• Understanding UNFCCC’s guidelines and standards on adaptation plans.

• Understanding of Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC)s

• Experience in capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and technical advisory roles.

• Familiarity with international climate finance mechanisms such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and Adaptation Fund.

• Fluency in English is essential; knowledge of Pacific languages is an advantage.

FUNCTIONAL

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop innovative solutions to complex challenges.

• Proven ability to design and implement technical tools and methodologies for climate adaptation.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.

• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

• Proficiency in GIS and climate modeling tools is an advantage.

CORPORATE

• Understand and actively support GGGI's mission, vision, and values.

• Promote an organizational culture of trust, transparency, respect, and partnership.

• Excels problem solving, asking questions and seeks support when needed, easily shares information and knowledge with others both internally and externally.

• Manage emotions and stress positively, build rapport and resolve conflict easily.

• Strong ability to work independently and/or remotely, while maintaining productivity.

• Be able to lead and manage a project independently, while knowing when to seek advice and liaise closely with the relevant GGGI structures.

• Be able to lead where needed and support the Senior Program Officer to make sound decisions.

DISCLAIMER:
The title of this position has been updated; however, the job responsibilities, requirements, and overall role remain unchanged. Candidates who previously applied or were interested in the prior title are encouraged to apply, as the core functions of the position remain the same.