Climate Change Officer

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF), a member of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), is a private, non-denominational, international development agency established in 1967. It seeks sustainable solutions to long-term problems of poverty, hunger, illiteracy and ill-health with special emphasis on the needs of rural communities in mountainous and other resource poor regions, primarily in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Its main areas of focus are Education & ECD, Health & Nutrition, Rural Development, Work & Enterprise, Civil Society, Agriculture & Food Security and Climate Change & Resilience.

AKF Pakistan [AKF(P)] is seeking a high caliber professional for the following position to be based in Islamabad, Pakistan with frequent travel to Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral (GBC) areas.

The incumbent will report to the Manager Climate Change, AKF(P).

Background:

Environment and Climate is a core strategic priority and cross-cutting theme for AKDN. AKF (P) maintains a robust and expanding portfolio of multi-sectorial initiatives, across country that focuses on improving quality of life of the people in AKDN programme areas. Pakistan is the fifth most vulnerable country to climate change in the world, with worrying impacts on the country's natural and human capital. Climate scenarios clearly point towards progressing climate variability which will continue to affect ecosystems and resources that are key to a secure economy, people's lives, and livelihoods. In collaboration with communities, governments, civil society, the private sector and other AKDN agencies in Pakistan, AKF(P) focuses on establishing inclusive and responsive civil society and creating climate resilience solutions to address current and future challenges faced by communities in AKDN programme areas in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral region (GBC).

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

Project Implementation & Technical Support:

• Support implementation of climate resilience initiatives focusing on renewable energy and natural resource management
• Assist in developing and implementing nature-based solutions for climate adaptation
• Support energy efficiency and green building initiatives implementation
• Help coordinate climate-smart agriculture and forestry practices
• Document and analyze field-level climate impacts and adaptation strategies
• Conduct climate vulnerability assessments at community level

Research & Knowledge Management:

• Maintain detailed documentation of climate patterns, extreme weather events, and their impacts on local communities
• Collect and analyze environmental data to support evidence-based programming
• Develop case studies highlighting successful climate adaptation interventions
• Support monitoring, evaluation and learning for climate resilience programs
• Create knowledge products on climate-resilient practices

Community Engagement:

• Facilitate community-based climate risk assessments
• Lead community awareness sessions on climate change impacts and adaptation
• Support community mobilization for climate initiatives
• Organize and conduct field demonstrations of climate-smart practices
• Document indigenous knowledge and practices related to environmental conservation

Required Qualifications & Experience

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Climate Change, Natural Resource Management, or related field
• Additional certification in climate change, environmental management, or renewable energy is preferred

Experience:

• 3-4 years of hands-on experience in climate change, environmental projects, or related fields
• Demonstrated field experience conducting climate vulnerability assessments
•  Proven track record of implementing community-based climate adaptation projects
• Experience in environmental data collection and analysis

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of climate science and environmental systems
• Proficiency in using climate modelling tools and environmental monitoring equipment
• Experience with GIS mapping and spatial analysis
• Knowledge of renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency practices
• Strong analytical and report writing skills

Personal Attributes:

• Demonstrated personal commitment to environmental causes through volunteering or activism
• Field experience in remote areas and challenging environments
• Ability to explain complex climate concepts to diverse audiences
• Strong communication and community engagement skills
• Passion for environmental conservation and climate action

AKF(P) offers a competitive remuneration package and conducive working environment. AKF(P) recruitment and selection policy and procedures reflect our commitment to equal opportunity, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in accordance with AKF(P)’s Safeguarding Policy and expects all staff, volunteers and representatives to share this commitment. Background checks and approved vetting procedure will be required.

We are an equal opportunity employer and women are encouraged to apply. The deadline for applications is January 02, 2024. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.