Advisor II, Environmental and Social Standards (ESS), Global Remote

Catholic Relief Services | CRS

4h•Remote

About The Position

The Environmental and Social Standards (ESS) Advisor supports the effective operationalization of CRS Environmental and Social Safeguard Standards across Green Climate Fund (GCF)–funded programs and activities. The role focuses on systematically integrating ESS requirements into project design and translating safeguard commitments into practical implementation across the project lifecycle. The Advisor provides technical guidance on environmental and social risk identification, monitoring, and mitigation planning; supports compliance among sub‑recipients and partners; and ensures ESS requirements are fully embedded in project planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting processes. Through expert advice and hands‑on support, the Advisor strengthens CRS systems and promotes the consistent application of principles of stewardship, integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Requirements

Familiarity with Green Climate Fund Environmental and Social Safeguards or similar standards (World Bank ESS, IFC Performance Standards).
Knowledge of donor compliance, audit, and reporting requirements related to environmental and social safeguards.
Strong analytical skills to assess environmental and social risks, identify system gaps, and recommend practical mitigation measures.
Effective written communication skills to draft ESS annexes, safeguard instruments, compliance documentation, and donor reports.
Ability to translate technical safeguard standards into clear, practical guidance for non‑specialist staff and partners.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a donor‑driven environment.
Ability to exercise sound judgment and uphold principles of stewardship, integrity, transparency, and accountability in safeguard implementation.
Demonstrated ability to present information clearly and confidently, facilitate group discussions, and provide coaching or capacity‑building support to diverse audiences.
Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office applications (e.g., Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) to prepare reports, presentations, and technical documentation.
Working knowledge of SharePoint or similar document management platforms for organizing, sharing, and maintaining project and compliance documentation.
English written and oral fluency.

Nice To Haves

French Spanish or Arabic strong plus.

Responsibilities

Integrate environmental and social safeguard (ESS) requirements into project design from concept notes through start‑up, ensuring early identification and management of risks to people and the environment.
Conduct ESS screening in line with Green Climate Fund (GCF) standards and assess gaps between CRS and partner systems, recommending actions to ensure compliance prior to implementation.
Draft and contribute to ESS Annex 8 and other project annexes, narratives, and technical sections required for GCF funding.
Support the development, implementation, and updating of Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs) and other required safeguard instruments.
Support environmental and social risk screening, mitigation planning, and compliance monitoring at activity and sub‑project level, escalating emerging risks as needed.
Compile, review, and quality‑check ESS monitoring data, incident reports, and compliance documentation to ensure accuracy and donor readiness.
Integrate baseline ESS requirements into MEAL systems, tools, and reporting processes, providing feedback to strengthen agency‑wide safeguard practices.
Contribute to donor reporting, audits, and follow‑up on corrective actions related to environmental and social safeguards.
Provide hands‑on ESS technical guidance, training, and capacity‑strengthening support to project teams, implementing partners, and sub‑recipients.
Coordinate closely with project, MEAL, operations, and technical teams to ensure ESS requirements are effectively embedded throughout implementation.