Environmental and Social Safeguards/Grievance Redress Mechanism Specialist

About the role

The Environmental and Social Safeguards/Grievance Redress Mechanism (ESS/GRM) Specialist will support the FAO‑Kyrgyzstan implementation of the GCF‑funded “Carbon Sequestration through Climate Investment in Forests and Rangelands” project. Working under the FAO Representative and the International Forestry Specialist, the incumbent will ensure that all project activities comply with FAO and GCF environmental and social standards while contributing to a low‑carbon, climate‑resilient economy.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and adapt site‑specific Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) in line with the project’s Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF).
• Conduct environmental and social risk assessments and provide mitigation recommendations for forest and rangeland interventions.
• Establish and operate the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), ensuring timely resolution of stakeholder concerns.
• Provide technical guidance to Operational Partners on safeguard compliance, gender integration, and climate‑adaptation measures.
• Monitor, record and report on environmental and social performance indicators, supporting periodic project reviews.
• Coordinate with the National Project Coordinator, Lead Technical Officer and other specialists to integrate safeguard requirements into project design and implementation.

Required profile

• Advanced university degree in environmental science, natural resources, climate change, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing environmental and social safeguards for international development projects, preferably within FAO or GCF contexts.
• Strong understanding of ESMP, ESMF, and GRM processes, including gender‑responsive approaches.
• Excellent analytical and report‑writing skills, with ability to work in multi‑stakeholder environments.

Required skills

• Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) methodology.
• Development of Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMP).
• Application of Environmental and Social Safeguard Frameworks (ESMF).
• Design and implementation of Grievance Redress Mechanisms (GRM).
• Knowledge of FAO safeguard policies and Green Climate Fund (GCF) requirements.