Introduction
Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.
The GEF-8 "Improving Wetlands Management for Biodiversity and Human–Wildlife Coexistence" project aims to conserve biodiversity, promote sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen the resilience of local communities in Timor-Leste.
The Gender & Safeguards Coordinator will ensure that all project activities are implemented in full compliance with environmental and social safeguards (ESS) and gender equality principles. The role involves integrating gender and safeguard standards into project planning, implementation, and monitoring, consistent with GEF, Conservation International (CI), and Government of Timor-Leste policies.
Working closely with the Project Management Unit (PMU), technical staff, and implementing partners, the coordinator will lead gender-sensitive analyses, risk assessments, and training for stakeholders. They will also monitor safeguard performance, document lessons learned, and promote inclusive, culturally appropriate practices that respect and empower all community members.
This position does not supervise staff. Duties are performed under direct supervision.
Location: This position is based in Dili, Timor-Leste, with frequent travel to Covalima, Ainaro, Manufahi, Manatuto and other project sites as required.
Key Responsibilities
1. Planning & Compliance
- Review the Project Document (ProDoc) to ensure full understanding of safeguard and gender compliance requirements
- Develop an annual work plan aligned with safeguard and gender objectives in the ProDoc
- Ensure project activities comply with GEF Environmental and Social Safeguards (ESS) and Gender Policy
- Identify, assess, and mitigate gender and safeguard risks throughout the project lifecycle
- Contribute to the development and implementation of risk management and incident response protocols
- Support integration of gender-responsive approaches into project planning and budgeting
2. Implementation & Capacity Building
- Provide technical guidance and capacity-building to project staff, partners, and communities on gender and safeguard standards
- Ensure safeguards and gender principles are mainstreamed in all field activities, community engagement, and livelihood interventions
- Facilitate learning events, workshops, and community sessions to strengthen understanding of rights-based and inclusive approaches
- Collaborate with the Technical Lead and PMU to support field implementation and compliance with safeguard requirements
3. Monitoring, Reporting & Coordination
- Work with the M&E team to track baseline data and monitor progress against safeguard and gender indicators
- Document lessons learned, best practices, and case studies related to gender and safeguards
- Contribute to donor and internal reports, ensuring accurate safeguard and gender information is included
- Maintain effective coordination with local authorities and stakeholders to promote safeguard awareness and compliance
- Submit on-time monthly progress reports and cash requests/acquittals to the supervisor
- Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in social sciences, Gender Studies, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Development Studies, or related field
- 2–4 years of relevant work experience, preferably in gender, social safeguards, environmental compliance, or community development programs
- Demonstrated experience in gender analysis, social safeguard assessments, and risk mitigation
- Proven ability to develop and implement workplans and support compliance monitoring
- Strong skills in monitoring, evaluation, reporting, and capacity building
- Excellent communication, presentation, facilitation, and training abilities
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in multicultural teams and engage with diverse stakeholders at all levels
- Knowledge of rights-based approaches, gender mainstreaming, and safeguard policies (e.g., GEF ESS, CI, or national standards)
- Commitment to social inclusion, community engagement, and sustainable development principles
- Fluency in English and Tetum (written and spoken)
- Women are strongly encouraged to apply
Additional Qualifications
- Experience working with communities, particularly those living in or near protected areas
- Expertise in community development and sustainable livelihood initiatives is highly desirable
How to Apply
To apply for this position please submit a resume and cover letter via the following link:
https://phh.tbe.taleo.net/phh04/ats/careers/v2/viewRequisition?org=CONSERVATION&cws=39&rid=2611
Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone.
