The GEF IkanAdapt project is implemented by FAO and executed by WorldFish in collaboration with the National Directorate of Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Marine Resources Management. The project seeks to harness nature-based solutions to build the resilience of fisheries and aquaculture livelihoods in Timor-Leste, whilst preserving and rebuilding biodiversity.

A component of the project seeks to build resilience of key species and habitats to future environmental change and perturbation. The National Biodiversity Consultant will work with a national team of 9 project staff and international collaborators from WorldFish and project partners to provide expertise on local biodiversity, implement a set of biodiversity surveys, and lead the development of associated management plans.

The successful applicant for this role will:

• Have a strong taxonomic and ecological knowledge of Timorese coastal, wetland, and riparian flora and fauna, that can be clearly demonstrated through past project reports or published outputs.
• Have a proven track record of leading biodiversity surveys, evidenced through written reports on survey results.
• Have a strong knowledge of Timor-Leste’s regulatory system relating to biodiversity conservation and climate change, preferably with a history of policy analysis or policy development.
• Be fluent in written and spoken Tetum and English. Knowledge of Portuguese is a distinct advantage.

Scope of Work
The position will span up to two years (starting immediately on recruitment) in a part-time capacity (negotiable) based on project needs and consultant availability and will provide for up to 180 working days (dependent on rate).

Among specific tasks for this position are:

• Working with national and international experts on Endangered and Protected Species Plans for 3 key marine or coastal species (selected in collaboration with the project Technical Working Group).
• Work with a small team (government, academia, project team) to survey 3 key marine and wetland areas chosen in collaboration with the project Technical Working Group (the first will be Be Malae Lake/Wetlands area, Bobonaro) to compile existing information, conduct biodiversity surveys, and prepare a biodiversity baseline report.
• Take the lead in developing conservation and sustainable use plans for the three coastal and wetland areas, as selected by the Technical Working Group.
• Lead ground-truthing work for municipality-level conservation plans in the 7 project focal municipalities and provide expert input into the development of these plans.
• Act as a team expert on biodiversity to advise on biodiversity issues relating to all project components, including biodiversity.

Reporting
The agency will report the progress of the assignment to WorldFish on a monthly basis.

Skills, Experience, and Knowledge
To be successful in this position, you will need to be a strong team player, willing to work under direction from project leadership and the Project Steering Committee but motivated to work autonomously in achieving objectives.

To achieve the listed outputs, you will need to:

• Develop implementation plans and budgets for key activities outlined by the Project Management Unit (within WorldFish) based on input from the Technical Working Group and the Project Steering Committee.
• Lead field activities such as biodiversity surveys and community consultations in collaboration with government agencies and collaborators.
• Provide accurate monthly dot point reports and daily timesheets that accurately reflect your activities.

To assist with achieving these objectives, the consultant will have access to a modest budget for equipment and assistance from the project team, including field officers and scientists. A key relationship with researchers from James Cook University, Australia, will provide additional expertise and advice in this task, including in the areas of remote sensing, data synthesis, mapping, and policy design.

Budget
Interested consultants are requested to provide an indication of their daily rate when they submit their expression of interest. Shortlisted consultants will be invited to work with project management to agree on a preliminary work plan and budget satisfactory to both parties prior to contracting.

Evaluation and Selection
Applications will be evaluated based on the qualifications and experience of the consultant, the quality and feasibility of the proposed approach and work plan, the relevance of previous work examples, and the most competitive proposal. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview or request additional information before final selection. This opportunity is open for Timorese citizens only.