Officer - Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) (For Uttaran) - Job ID : 1470750

Uttaran, an NGO in Bangladesh, seeks an Officer for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to support project design, implementation, and monitoring under the ACCESS Project. Responsibilities include assessing NbS interventions, enhancing disaster management structures, and conducting community training on resilience strategies. The role emphasizes integrating ecosystem approaches into local planning to empower disadvantaged communities.
Uttaran is looking for Officer - Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS)

Job Context

Uttaran is an NGO working in Bangladesh since 1985 to uphold rights and entitlements and to improve the socio-economic condition of the poor and disadvantaged community people. Uttaran is a people-centered organization using a rights-based approach to alleviate poverty, diversify livelihood opportunities and empower poor communities of Bangladesh.

Uttaran invites applications for the vacant position titled- Officer - Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for the Actions to Climate Change Ensuring Sustainable Solutions (ACCESS) Project.

Reports to: Project Operation Manager.

Position Overview

The Officer – DRR and NbS will support the design, implementation, and monitoring of project interventions related to Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Nature-based Solutions (NbS). The position will ensure effective integration of ecosystem-based approaches and early warning systems into community-level resilience planning, while strengthening institutional capacities and promoting sustainable, community-led practices.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Support to implement Nature-based Solutions (NbS)
• Identify and prioritize suitable NbS interventions based on local context, environmental needs, and community consultations (aligned with LAPA or similar frameworks).
• Support in project activities design by a) identifying and prioritizing suitable NbS interventions based on local context, environmental needs, and community consultations (aligned with LAPA or similar frameworks) and b) contextualizing these NbS approaches for participatory and locally-led project design and implementation
• Conduct technical feasibility assessments and environmental screening of proposed NbS options.
• Prepare simple implementation designs, technical specifications, and cost estimates for small-scale NbS schemes.
• Establish and coordinate linkages with climate-resilient livelihoods
• Support and oversee the implementation of NbS interventions such as mangrove restoration, wetland protection, bio-embankments, and climate-resilient plantations.

Technical Support to implement Disaster Risk Reduction & Early Warning Systems (EW4All) interventions
• Assess and strengthen existing disaster management structures, including activation and orientation of DMCs and SMCs in line with Standing Orders on Disaster (SOD).
• Map and improve early warning dissemination systems from Upazila to Union to Ward levels, including establishing clear communication chains and protocols.
• Support the development and testing of household-level DRR and contingency plans.
• Facilitate the development, updating, and operationalization of localized Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) for multiple hazards.
• Organize simulation exercises and mock drills to enhance preparedness and response capacity.

Capacity Development (NbS & DRR) & Knowledge Sharing
• Support development and delivery of community-level training modules on NbS concepts, ecosystem services, and climate resilience, as required
• Support technical training on specific NbS options tailored to local priorities.
• Facilitate household and community sensitization sessions on multi-hazard early warning systems.
• Strengthen the capacity of Disaster Management Committees (DMCs), School Management Committees (SMCs), and volunteers on DRR, early warning systems, and anticipatory action.
• Facilitate learning workshops to enhance knowledge sharing and cross-learning

Community Engagement and Awareness
• Design and implement community awareness strategies to promote understanding of DRR, climate risks, early warning systems, and NbS approaches
• Facilitate participatory community consultations, ensuring inclusion of diverse groups to inform planning and decision-making
• Engage community leaders, local institutions, and volunteer networks to strengthen ownership and sustainability of interventions
• Support organization of community events, campaigns, and observance of key national and international days related to disaster preparedness, environment, and resilience.

Institutionalization and Coordination
• Maintain working relationships with all local project stakeholders (government and non-government) and serve as key liaison between them and the project team to mobilize and promote optimal DRR and NbS focused activities and impact
• Support the establishment of community-based management systems for NbS interventions.
• Facilitate agreements to formalize ownership and ensure sustainability of interventions.
• Coordinate with local government institutions, technical agencies, and community groups to ensure alignment and synergy of DRR and NbS activities.

Monitoring, Reporting and Learning:
• Assist in developing and implementing monitoring tools to track project progress
• Monitor implementation progress and performance of NbS interventions, including ecosystem recovery and community benefits.
• Track effectiveness of early warning systems and DRR measures through regular follow-up and evaluation.
• Develop operation and maintenance (O&M) plans and promote community-led maintenance mechanisms.
• Document lessons learned, best practices, and scalability potential of interventions.
• Contribute to preparation of progress reports, learning documents, and activity reports.
• Coordinate with the MEAL team to ensure accurate data collection and reporting

Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI)
• Ensure the integration of GESI considerations across all DRR and NbS interventions, from design to implementation and monitoring.
• Promote meaningful participation of persons with disabilities, marginalized and vulnerable groups in planning, decision-making, and implementation processes.
• Support gender-responsive and inclusive risk assessments, training, and community consultations.
• Ensure that early warning systems, communication materials, and capacity-building activities are accessible and inclusive.
• Support collection and reporting of sex-, age-, and disability-disaggregated data (SADDD)
• Identify and address barriers to inclusion and promote equitable access to project benefits

Other Responsibilities
• Perform any other duties assigned by the Project Coordinator to ensure effective project implementation.

Educational Requirements
• Masters
• Master’s degree or equivalent in Forestry, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Disaster Management, or a related field.

Experience Requirements
• 3 to 5 year(s)

Additional Requirements
• At least 3-5 years of professional experience in Nature Based Solutions/Natural Resource Management/ DRR/Climate Change Adaptation project activity implementation or any related field.
• Experience working with government institutions, local government bodies, and community-based organizations will be an advantage.

Competencies
• Strong community mobilization and facilitation skills.
• Experience in organizing awareness campaigns, training programs, and stakeholder meetings.
• Knowledge of nature-based solutions, natural resources management, disaster risk reduction activities, local governance systems, and community engagement approaches.
• Strong coordination and partnership-building skills.
• Ability to manage data, documentation, and reporting.
• Proficiency in MS Office and digital data management tools.
• Good communication skills in Bangla and English.

Job Location

Bagerhat, Khulna

Salary
• Tk. 44100 (Monthly)