Senior Associate: NBS Carbon Project Development
Job Description
Interest in nature-based solutions (NBS) is at an all-time high and Silvestrum’s services are in very high demand. In order to meet this demand and retain our high standards, we are looking for experienced, values-aligned professionals to join our small but dynamic team. We are seeking applications from individuals with demonstrated experience in carbon project development and/or carbon standard methodology development.
Depending on the profile of the successful candidate(s) and the needs of our clients, opportunities can be tailored to a candidate’s preferences. Ideally, we are looking for a dedicated team member committed to contributing and growing with the business in the long-term but are open to part-time or shorter-term arrangements for the right candidates.
The successful candidate(s) will have the opportunity to work on a broad spectrum of projects across Africa and the Americas, including wetlands restoration, development of science and monitoring programs, carbon project development and the inclusion of wetlands in GHG inventories. Under the recently launched Seascape Carbon Initiative, we are looking to further expand our blue carbon work, by evaluating the inclusion of seaweed conservation and restoration, seaweed farming, seabed management and other marine solutions in established and nascent carbon markets.
About Silvestrum
Silvestrum Climate Associates is a small, agile and impactful advisory firm with a mission to advance nature-based climate solutions. Founded in 2008, Silvestrum is based in Europe and the United States, with posts in Africa and Central America. Together, we address the challenges of climate change by nurturing sustainable development that is grounded in science, action oriented, and community driven. As innovators and long-time practitioners in climate adaptation, climate mitigation, climate change policy and regulation, nature investments and environmental science, we unite insights from successful projects and policies from across the world, combining cutting-edge research with decades of hands-on experience, to assist governments, the private sector and civil society. Silvestrum has become a key player in designing climate mechanisms, notably on soil carbon, blue carbon and NBS, and we are generally acknowledged to be one of the leading advisory firms in this field advising a broad spectrum of clients such as governments, non-governmental organisations, project developers and investors globally. A team that mixes backgrounds in science, law and the humanities, we work across the board to help organisations set standards for policies and projects in the field of NBS and climate equity, and for developing protocols on climate mitigation. Our shared interest is creating sustainable impact on land, coasts, and ocean systems. Much of our work deals with land use, land control, and landscape characteristics such as vegetation, soil, geomorphology, hydrology and sea level rise. Since NBS can only be successful with safeguards for communities and biodiversity, and when based on a good alignment with the institutional and legal setting, our work is truly multidisciplinary.
Working at Silvestrum means that you are part of a leading company where there is room to develop yourself on a professional level.
Given the currently growing attention and need for NBS for climate change, we’re on the lookout for a talented professional who is prepared to go the extra mile, to dig deeper and who won’t take no for an answer. We’re looking for people who share not only our passion and enthusiasm but also our values: respect, inclusion, passion, integrity, courage, optimism, and teamwork.
What We Are Looking For
Essential
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A minimum of 5 years' experience in the climate and/or natural resource management sector, with demonstratable carbon project development experience
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A comprehensive understanding of carbon accounting procedures and the AFOLU requirements of the major carbon standards (VCS; Gold Standard; Plan Vivo)
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Self-motivated and details-oriented, with a demonstrated track record of timely delivery
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Proficient in working both independently and within a group environment, with a variety of stakeholders
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Excellent communication skills and demonstrated ability to synthesise and communicate complex subjects clearly in writing and in presentation
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Business minded with an eye for pragmatic solutions
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Ability to prioritise and manage effectively multiple tasks
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Empathic team player
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Fluency in English
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Willingness to travel internationally, if required, to join field teams and workshops.
Desirable
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An understanding of carbon dynamics and accounting in tidal wetland and marine environments
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Experience in the development of carbon standard methodologies
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Fluency or competency in languages other than English
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GIS and/or remote sensing experience.
What We Offer
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A role in one of the leading consultancy firms globally in the field of climate policy and mechanisms, blue carbon, and nature-based solutions
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The possibility to work on high-profile projects across the world
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Continuous learning opportunities - you will be part of an ambitious team and be challenged to further develop your talents
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Competitive salary, plus benefits, depending upon experience and contract type
Work environment
During the global pandemic, 100% of our team are working from home. We plan to continue this for some time. This provides flexibility in living location. However, candidates based in time-zones close to project locations (Africa and Central/South America) will be favoured.
How To Apply
If you think Silvestrum could be a good fit for you, we'd like to get to know you. Please send your CV and a motivational letter to recruitment@silvestrum.com. You will be contacted by one of our principals. All applications are treated in the strictest of confidence. Silvestrum, despite being a small company, wishes its staff to reflect the rich diversity of society at large. We therefore encourage everyone to apply, regardless of ethnic origin, skin colour, gender, age, sexual orientation, philosophical conviction, or disability. We are an equal opportunity employer and make employment decisions on the basis of merit and business needs.