Call for Applications: UNICEF Climate Change Specialist UN Volunteer Role
Professionals with experience in climate action, environmental policy and sustainable development can apply for a 12-month United Nations Volunteer (UNV) assignment with UNICEF Nigeria as a Climate Change Specialist.
The position is based in Abuja and is focused on strengthening climate action that protects children and supports climate-resilient programmes across Nigeria. The assignment is an onsite international UN Volunteer Specialist role, with a proposed start date of November 1, 2026 and the possibility of extension.
UNICEF says its work with UN Volunteers is administered through the UN Volunteers programme, rather than through direct UNICEF recruitment. UNVs are not UNICEF staff members and are managed under UNV’s conditions of service.
What the Specialist Will Do
The successful candidate will support the integration of climate adaptation, mitigation and resilience into UNICEF programmes covering areas such as health, nutrition, education, WASH, child protection and social policy.
The role will also involve climate-risk research and analysis, evidence generation, knowledge management, monitoring and reporting. The specialist is expected to work closely with government institutions, UN agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, academia and youth networks.
Other responsibilities include supporting climate-finance initiatives, policy discussions, stakeholder consultations, field monitoring and the preparation of reports, briefing materials and advocacy content.
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is targeted at professionals with relevant academic and practical experience in areas such as climate change, environment, energy, development studies, climate finance, policy, research or related disciplines.
The published vacancy information indicates that applicants should have at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and a minimum of three years of professional experience related to climate change adaptation or mitigation, climate finance, policy, coordination, youth engagement or knowledge management. Strong research, analytical, communication and partnership-building skills are also required.
A critical eligibility condition applies: because this is an international UN Volunteer assignment in Nigeria, Nigerian nationals are not eligible for the position.
What the Opportunity Offers
As a UN Volunteer, the selected candidate receives support under UNV’s conditions of service. Benefits can include a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance, medical and life insurance, annual leave, settlement and end-of-assignment allowances, and access to learning and development opportunities, subject to the applicable UNV terms.
The assignment offers an opportunity to work within UNICEF’s Nigeria operations while contributing to climate action, child rights and sustainable development.
How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates should review the vacancy details and submit their application through the official UN Volunteers recruitment platform.
Application Deadline: Not stated in the information provided.
Interested professionals can check current UN Volunteer opportunities through UNICEF’s official careers information, which directs applicants to the UNV recruitment system for UNICEF volunteer assignments.
Apply Here: https://app.unv.org/opportunities/1784888021271537
