Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities' Engagement Consultant, Science Panel for the Amazon

New York, NY, USA

** LEER EN ESPAÑOL **

** LEIA EM PORTUGUÊS **

ABOUT SDSN

The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) has been operating since 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. SDSN mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. We aim to accelerate joint learning and promote integrated approaches that address the interconnected economic, social, and environmental challenges confronting the world. 

SDSN works closely with United Nations agencies, multilateral financing institutions, the private sector, and civil society. It is directed by Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs and operates through offices in New York, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur.

ABOUT THE SCIENCE PANEL FOR THE AMAZON 

The Science Panel for the Amazon, convened under the auspices of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) represents the world’s first high-level science initiative dedicated to the survival of the Amazon. It is composed of 300 members, including Indigenous peoples and local communities’ scientists, and has the mission of synthesizing and communicating scientific knowledge about the Amazon, integrated with Indigenous and Local Knowledge (ILK), to accelerate solutions for sustainable and equitable development. The first report of the SPA, launched at the COP26 in Glasgow, is the most in-depth and holistic report of its kind on the Amazon.

The state of urgency and the complexity and scope of the challenges the Amazon is facing calls for continued specialized research and scientific knowledge. It is thus paramount to ensure that the SPA remains active and operational in the long-term to develop much needed scientific assessments on the state of the Amazon and build and share knowledge to advance evidence-based sustainable development pathways for the Amazon.

POSITION SUMMARY

The consultant will work with SPA members, leadership, and secretariat, to develop an overall engagement strategy to work Indigenous peoples and local communities in the Amazon region.

The consultant will oversee several projects and initiatives, including the coordination and implementation of the SPA’s strategy for engagement with Indigenous peoples and local communities in close collaboration with SPA Secretariat.

The consultant will also identify potential key organizations to be engaged in knowledge dialogues between SPA scientists and Indigenous peoples and local communities in the Amazon. They will also support the establishment of partnerships with key networks and institutions of Indigenous peoples and local communities in the Amazon region.

The consultant will coordinate the obtaining of written commitments from Academia to work with Indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) holders. The consultant will synthesize lessons learned.

The consultant will support identification of and outreach to new potential SPA members from Indigenous peoples and local communities in the Amazon.

To support the SPA’s 2025 Assessment Report (AR2025) specifically, the consultant will lead the coordination and facilitation of knowledge dialogues between SPA scientists and Indigenous peoples and local communities at key stages of the development of the Panel’s AR2025. They will coordinate the socialization of AR2025 findings and recommendations with Indigenous peoples and local communities in the Amazon, in close collaboration with SPA members and the SPA Secretariat.

The consultant will support the SPA’s involvement in workshops hosted by the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) and Coordinator of Indigenous Organizations of the Amazon River Basin (COICA) on the road to COP30 (to be confirmed).

PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work with SPA leadership to direct work on engagement with Indigenous peoples and local communities in the Amazon
• Build a compendium/database of key networks and institutions of Indigenous peoples and local communities in the Amazon region
• Develop an engagement strategy for Indigenous peoples and local communities 
• Implement the strategy, including key dialogues, meetings, and events 

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

• 7+ years of experience working with Indigenous peoples and local communities in the Amazon region, including their networks and organizations.
• Demonstrated experience facilitating and coordinating knowledge dialogues between academics and Indigenous peoples and local communities.
• An advanced university degree (preferably a Ph.D) in anthropology, biology, ecology, economics, conservation, sustainable development, or related field is desired.
• Candidates must have developed and executed strategies that have taken an organization or program to the next stage of impact and growth. They must be skilled in developing strategy. 
• Ability to adapt technical knowledge and complex concepts to products aimed at policymakers and at Indigenous peoples and local communities.
• Excellent organizational and project leadership skills.
• Proven ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a matrixed team environment.
• Ability to operate with independence, under pressure, and to meet deadlines and commitments.
• Excellent interpersonal skills requiring knowing when to use courtesy, tact and/or diplomacy to effectively communicate with all constituents.
• Ability to work with different cultures.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and produce high-quality work under time constraints.
• Ability to demonstrate integrity in deliverables, behavior, and demeanor.
• Deep commitment to diversity, inclusiveness, and empowerment.
• Must be fluent in English, Portuguese, and/or Spanish.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Location: Remote

Travel: None

Contract Length: 8 months, with possibility to renew

Salary Range : Salary commensurate with experience

Benefits: SDSN team members are given the opportunity to follow some of the most thought-provoking discussions on sustainability. In their work, team members get the opportunity to meet and exchange with some of the world’s greatest leaders in sustainable development – professors, economists, bestselling authors, educators, and academics. In addition to this, SDSN team is composed of brilliant, dynamic, sustainable development professionals that come from different countries and backgrounds. With such unique exposure and environment, each member of SDSN can learn and grow while doing the work they love and contribute with a positive impact.

Reports to: Emma Torres, Vice President of the Americas

SDSN IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

SDSN provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, genetic information, military or veteran status, age, and physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws.

APPLICATION PROCESS

To apply, please submit a cover letter and a CV on HR Partner.