Technical Advisor: Climate Change Policy

GIZ.; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A global development agency is seeking a Technical Advisor: Climate Change Policy to join their team in Pretoria. This role focuses on providing high-level policy advice, managing technical workstreams, and overseeing consulting firm outputs regarding climate strategies. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience in climate change and project management, and possess a relevant university degree. Join us to contribute to South Africa's climate initiatives.

Benefits

Diversity & Inclusion initiatives

Opportunity for impactful work

Collaboration with international organizations

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience in climate change and project management.
• Extensive knowledge of South African and international climate policy.
• In-depth knowledge of GHG emission modelling and environmental policy instruments.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic policy advice on climate change mitigation.
• Support DFFE in designing and implementing climate change projects.
• Oversee consulting firms to ensure quality outputs.

Skills

Climate Change Policy

Project Management

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Education

University degree in Climate Change or related fields

Post-graduate qualification

Job description

Overview

Shape the Future with GIZ
Bring your expertise in climate change policy to an international organisation driving sustainable development. Based at the GIZ offices in Hatfield, Pretoria, you will join the Climate Support Programme Phase 4 (CSP4) team, working closely with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE). This full-time role runs until 31 December 2026.

As a Technical Advisor: Climate Change Policy, you will provide high-level policy advice, manage technical workstreams, and guide consulting firms in delivering quality outputs. You will play a key role in supporting South Africa’s climate mitigation, adaptation, and monitoring & evaluation strategies.

To apply, please submit a detailed CV (max. 2 pages, including nationality) together with a motivation letter (max. 2 pages) explaining why you are the best suited for the role. Only complete applications will be considered.

Closing date for applications: 26 September 2025
Only shortlisted candidates will be informed and must complete an assignment before the interview.

What You Will Be Doing

• Provide strategic policy advice on climate change mitigation in the Energy, Industry and Transport sectors, as well as adaptation strategies and emissions monitoring

• Support DFFE and partner institutions in designing and implementing climate change projects and policies

• Oversee and ensure quality of consulting firms, including procurement processes and drafting terms of reference

• Manage technical workstreams on climate policy, institutional support, and implementation mechanisms

• Contribute to mainstreaming mitigation measures into adaptation response plans for the public and private sector

• Collaborate on adaptation-related activities within the Climate Cluster

• Plan and facilitate stakeholder consultations, ensuring strong knowledge management and dissemination

• Prepare high-quality briefing materials for German ministries with minimal supervision

Required Qualifications, Competencies and Experiences

Qualifications

• University degree in Climate Change, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Energy (Efficiency), Finance/Economics, Business Administration or Engineering

• Post-graduate qualification will be an advantage

Professional Experience

• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience in climate change and project management, advisory or consulting services

• Extensive knowledge of South African and international climate policy, particularly in Energy, Just Transition, Industry and Transport

• Proven experience with South Africa’s UNFCCC commitments and international climate policy processes

• In-depth knowledge of GHG emission modelling, transition pathways, and environmental policy instruments (carbon tax, budgets, trading systems), including inventories

• Solid understanding of South African energy policy and the Just Transition agenda

• Experience in integrated project management, proposal development and securing donor funding

• Familiarity with South Africa’s public and private sector landscape, with established networks in climate and energy

Other Competences

• Excellent analytical, writing and communication skills with the ability to produce and edit complex materials

• Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills with political awareness and solution orientation

• Proven experience in managing service providers and technically guiding expert teams

• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to work independently under pressure and within deadlines

• Passionate about climate change, sustainability and advancing the green economy

Why Work with Us?

At GIZ, we believe in diversity, respect and equal opportunity. As a signatory to the Diversity Charter, we value all employees regardless of gender, identity, origin, belief, disability, social background, age or orientation. Applications from women and historically marginalised groups are strongly encouraged.