DescriptionClimate Change Specialist
The World at Abt
Solving the world’s most pressing issues and improving the quality of life for people worldwide is what we do every day at Abt. Creating a more equitable world is no small task, but we are driven by big challenges.
We are a team of 3,000+ people in over 50 countries working in unison and focused on the bigger picture. Only by sharing our commitment, energy, and innovation do we affect change and push the boundaries of what’s possible. We welcome diverse ideas, backgrounds, and viewpoints – joining Abt means access to exceptional thinkers at the top of their game.
To thrive at Abt is to embrace flexibility and collaboration. Our open culture allows you to balance your work and personal life as needed to optimize personal well-being. Creating a more equitable world starts from within – we look after people around the world, and we’ll do the same for you.
Ready to embrace rewarding and meaningful work? Now’s your chance.
The Opportunity
Abt Global is seeking a qualified Climate Change Specialist based in Kinshasa to support the anticipated Congo Basin Forestry Action Programme (CBFAP), funded by the FCDO. The CBFAP will promote sustainable forest governance, enhance livelihoods for forest-dependent communities, and drive climate resilience and low-emission development strategies across the Congo Basin. The Climate Change Specialist will be responsible for ensuring that the programme’s activities address climate change impacts and promote adaptation and mitigation strategies that align with global and national climate objectives.
The Climate Change Specialist will lead on the integration of climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies into the Congo Basin Forestry Action Programme (CBFAP). The successful candidate will provide technical expertise in climate-resilient development, natural resource management, and sustainable forest management. The Climate Change Specialist will work closely with local communities, governments, and other stakeholders to build climate resilience, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable forest practices.
Core Responsibilities
Climate Change Strategy and Integration
- Lead the design and implementation of climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies within the CBFAP.
- Ensure that climate change considerations are integrated into all aspects of the programme, including land use planning, forest management, and community development.
- Develop and promote nature-based solutions to reduce emissions and enhance carbon sequestration, including reforestation, agroforestry, and forest conservation.
Technical Assistance and Capacity Building
- Provide technical expertise on climate change adaptation and mitigation to project staff, local communities, and government partners.
- Build capacity of local stakeholders to implement climate-smart practices and strengthen climate resilience in forest-dependent communities.
- Develop and deliver training sessions on climate-resilient forestry, low-emission development strategies, and other relevant topics.
Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy
- Engage with local, national, and regional stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector, to promote climate action and sustainable forest management.
- Advocate for the integration of climate change policies and practices into national forest governance frameworks and land-use planning.
- Participate in national and international forums related to climate change, forest management, and sustainable development.
Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
- Collaborate with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) team to develop climate-related indicators and track progress towards climate adaptation and mitigation goals.
- Ensure that climate change-related data is collected, analysed, and used to inform programme decisions.
- Report on the programme’s contribution to national and global climate change targets, such as the Paris Agreement and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Research and Knowledge Management
- Conduct research on climate change impacts in the Congo Basin, particularly related to forest ecosystems, carbon sequestration, and community resilience.
- Generate knowledge products, such as case studies, policy briefs, and technical reports, to share lessons learned and best practices.
- Keep the project team informed of the latest developments in climate science, policy, and finance that are relevant to the Congo Basin region.
What We Value
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Climate Change, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Forestry, or a related field.
- At least 8-10 years of experience in climate change adaptation, mitigation, or related fields, with a focus on forestry, sustainable land use, or natural resource management.
- Experience working in international development, preferably with donor-funded projects (experience with FCDO or other international donors preferred).
- Expertise in climate risk assessments, greenhouse gas accounting, and the design of climate change mitigation strategies.
- Knowledge of global climate change frameworks, such as the Paris Agreement, REDD+, and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop evidence-based climate strategies.
- Excellent communication and advocacy skills, with experience engaging with diverse stakeholders including governments, communities, and the private sector.
- Proficiency in English and French (required); knowledge of local languages in the Congo Basin is an advantage.
- Familiarity with GIS, remote sensing, or other tools for monitoring land use and climate impacts is a plus.
- Passionate about addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development.
- Collaborative and team-oriented, with strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Adaptable and able to work in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to translate climate science into practical solutions.
What We Offer
We foster an environment where you can Thrive Your Way. Our innovative total rewards programs are designed to help balance your work and personal life. The approach toward your wellbeing centers around comprehensive benefits and professional development.
Abt Global Inc. is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse workforce. Abt provides market-competitive salaries and comprehensive employee benefits. Local candidates strongly encouraged to apply.
Disclaimer: Abt will never ask candidates for money in exchange for an offer of employment.
Abt is committed to creating a safe and inclusive work environment. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate background checks, which can include criminal records and terrorism finance checks. Abt also participates in the Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. In line with this Scheme, we will request information from job applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.
