Climate Change & Disaster Risk Management Specialist at Compassion International

Program Support Specialist III - Climate Change & Disaster Risk Management Specialist
Job Location: Arusha, Tanzania

Position Overview

The Climate Change & Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Specialist is responsible for spearheading the integration of climate adaptation and disaster resilience principles across Compassion International Tanzania's programs. This role requires a professional with a deep understanding of environmental stewardship from a faith-based perspective, combined with proven expertise in disaster risk management frameworks and climate change adaptation strategies. The specialist will lead capacity-building initiatives, foster strategic partnerships, and provide technical guidance to enhance the preparedness and resilience of church partners, households, and communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Christian Ministry and child Protection Integration:
• Champion the biblical foundation of environmental stewardship and creation care as a core principle for building disaster-resilient communities.
• Model a Christ-like attitude and serve as a consistent witness, upholding Compassion’s ministry in prayer.
• Act as an advocate for child protection, integrating these considerations into all aspects of the role.
• Program Leadership & Strategy:
• Champion and promote an integrated approach to Climate Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management within Compassion's operational framework.
• Develop and frequently update the organization's disaster risk management and environmental, health, and safety guidelines, ensuring alignment with national policies, industry standards, and best practices.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to develop and implement disaster mitigation and preparedness proposals.
• Provide technical leadership and coordination for the National Disaster Management Team during crisis events, ensuring timely and effective relief support.

Capacity Building & Training:

• Design, plan, and implement capacity-building initiatives to enhance the competencies of Front Church Partners (FCPs) and communities in core Disaster Risk Management processes.
• Equip FCPs and clusters to develop and maintain their own localized Disaster Risk Management strategies and preparedness plans.
• Support awareness campaigns on environmental stewardship and disaster preparedness for national office teams and local churches.
• Partnerships & Resource Mobilization:
• Develop and cultivate strategic alliances and professional networks with government bodies, local entities, and humanitarian organizations to mobilize resources for disaster mitigation, response, and recovery efforts.
• Actively engage with the humanitarian cluster system and other professional communities of practice to share expertise and best practices for holistic child development.
• Assessment & Reporting:
• Conduct timely and comprehensive post-disaster needs assessments in close collaboration with affected churches.
• Gather and disseminate critical information about disaster events from various sources to inform management and global partners.
• Review, analyze, and report on program data to support strategic decision-making and continuous improvement of disaster risk management practices.
• Oversee and report on the processing of Disaster Assistance Program (DAP) requests and related financial milestones.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• At least 5 to 10 years relevant experience
• Demonstrated professional experience in Disaster Risk Management and Climate Adaptation.
• Academic background in a relevant field, such as Environmental Science, Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, Environmental Planning, Humanitarian and Development Science, Environmental Sustainability, or a related discipline.
• Proven leadership experience, analysis and strong communication skills

Travel required: Might be required to travel up to 40% of normal working schedule