Climate Resilient Specialist, Irrigation and Lowlands Development (Home-based Retainer)
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Position Title: Climate Resilient Specialist, Irrigation and Lowlands Development
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Organization: United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) / NDC Partnership
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Duty Station: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (Home-based / MoLID Facilities)
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Contract Type: ICA – LICA Specialist (Retainer, LICA Level 10)
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Duration: 12 months (Max 220 working days, extensible based on performance and funds)
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Closing Date: 23-Nov-2026
Job Overview
Are you an expert in climate-resilient irrigation, water resources management, and climate finance? UNOPS is seeking a qualified Climate Resilient Specialist to provide technical and facilitative support to Ethiopia’s Ministry of Lowlands and Irrigation Development (MoLID).
This role drives national efforts under NDC 3.0 implementation, focusing on mobilizing climate finance, preparing bankable investment proposals, and modernizing sustainable irrigation and lowland resilience programs (such as the CRISP project).
Key Responsibilities & Scope of Work
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Climate Finance & Investment Mobilization: Help MoLID officials identify and prioritize climate-resilient investments. Prepare high-quality concept notes, full project proposals, and financing packages for international climate funds and development banks.
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CRISP & Irrigation Backstopping: Provide direct technical input for the Climate Resilient Irrigation for Sustainable Production (CRISP) project. Ensure alignment with water-use efficiency standards, climate-risk screening, and inclusive community outcomes.
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Partnership & Netherlands Initiative Alignment: Map and build synergies with Netherlands-supported water management and agricultural initiatives, fostering private-sector participation and co-financing.
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Institutional Capacity Building: Deliver targeted on-the-job training, mentoring, and standard operating procedures to strengthen long-term project development capabilities within MoLID.
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Technical Advisory on Climate-Smart Agriculture: Guide participatory rangeland management, watershed restoration, efficient water conveyance, and drought-tolerant production models for pastoral and agro-pastoral communities.
Candidate Profile & Requirements
| Category | Requirement Details |
| Education | Advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Irrigation Engineering, Water Resources Management, Agricultural Engineering, Climate Change, Environmental Science, or related fields. (Note: A Bachelor’s degree with 7+ years of relevant experience may be accepted). |
| Professional Experience | Minimum 5 years of experience in climate-resilient irrigation, water management, climate adaptation, or project investment planning. Demonstrated success in preparing proposals for major climate or agricultural funds. |
| Language Proficiency | Fluent in English and Amharic (Required). |
| Eligibility | Must be a national of Ethiopia or hold a valid residence permit. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. |
Why Apply?
Join a global coalition advancing the Paris Agreement through country-owned climate action. This role empowers you to make a tangible impact on climate vulnerability, food security, and sustainable resource management in East Africa.
