Ecological or Environmental Economist, GRID-Arendal
GRID-Arendal is seeking an Ecological or Environmental Economist to participate in the planning, development and implementation of various relevant activities that seek to promote a transition to a “green economy” in developing states. The expert will work to integrate the notion of inter-connectedness of the human economy and natural ecosystems, temporally and spatially.
Activity areas for this position are primarily (but not exclusively) focused on the following thematic areas: holistic valuation of ecosystems and their functions and services, human impact and resource use management, macro- to micro-level economic transition, social innovation and change management and sectoral assessments and solution implementation.
The ideal candidate is a proficient networker with top quality interpersonal, organizational and team-oriented skills, who can apply innovative and forward thinking approaches to the development of GA’s nascent green economy strategy across all its thematic divisions: Marine, Polar and Cryosphere, and Capacity Building and Assessments.
An overall aim involves communicating to various audiences from policy/decision maker to the general public and decision makers the value of natural systems (and the dependence of human well being on the health of those systems), and bridging the gap between scientific investigation and the need to operationalize results to promote desired change.
Competencies of particular interest are:
- Demonstrated experience with producing and communicating ecosystem valuation assessments – biophysical and heterodox approach;
- Familiarity with UNEP The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity;
- Demonstrated familiarity with UNEP’s Green Economy Initiative and other relevant global “green economy” and transition movements and initiatives;
- Demonstrated experience in facilitating a variety of types of workshops and other capacity building and/or advisory services aimed at enabling conditions for transition; and
- Demonstrated experience in sectoral green economy approaches (e.g. tourism).
The position will be based in Arendal, Norway. Initial tasks and responsibilities will be based on relevant activities of that are currently in progress and/or under development. The candidate will be expected to support in various capacities the following projects:
- TEEB (The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity) for Oceans and Coasts and for the Arctic studies;
- Blue Carbon Regional to National Feasibility and Demonstration Projects;
- Green Economy Capacity Development and Advisory Services; and
- Development of change management initiative to assist various groups with economic transition.
The candidate will in time be expected to develop, plan, lead and implement new activities in line with GRID- Arendal’s green economy strategy and support other project leads when relevant. The candidate will also be expected to pursue fundraising activities when deemed relevant to core goals.
Preferred professional qualifications:
- Master degree or equivalent/higher in environmental or ecological economics;
- Minimum of 5 years international working experience in related field in at least one of the following: UN system, corporate organization, NGO or CGO;
- Intra- and inter-institutional network management;
- Experience with proposal writing;
- Excellent English written and oral communications skills, with editing experience. Additional language skills would be an advantage (French skills are particularly sought);
- Established network of contacts in support of the aforementioned goals would be a great asset;
- Good organizational and pro-efficient project management skills;
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills;
- Knowledge about the UN system/international organizations; and
- Experience with media outreach and public presentations.
Preferred personal qualifications:
- Excellent team player and ability to work independently;
- High motivation and energy;
- Ability to pursue multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment and consistently meet deadlines;
- Excellent networking capabilities and diplomatic skills;
- Interpersonal skills and ability to work in an international and culturally diverse environment.
Compensation:
GRID-Arendal’s salary system is linked to the Norwegian Government salary system. It is based on education and experience. Salaries are subject to Norwegian tax regulations. Insurance and personal benefits are provided in addition to salary. International staff receives additional benefits.
Deadline for applications: 14 June, 2013
Application should include a cover letter and curriculum vitae. Please send your application by email to: Luana Karvel, HR Manager, Luana.Karvel@grida.no (no specific application form to be filled in).
For further information about the position, please contact Yannick Beaudoin, Head of Marine Division, Yannick.Beaudoin@grida.no, tel.: +47 954 29 247 or Valentin Yemelin, Head of Capacity Building & Assessments, Valentin.Yemelin@grida.no, tel.: + 47 995 12 229.