The Climate Metrics Specialist will help ensure that climate metric accounting is consistent, reliable and accurate.
The successful candidate will work closely with the Global Climate team, Chief Conservation Office and TNC field teams to refine and report outcome and intermediate-result indicators and metrics.
This is a two-year funded position , with the possibility of extension based on deliverables and funding.
Job Summary
- Employer: The Nature Conservancy (TNC)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Science
- Salary: For applicants based in the United States, the starting annual base salary is generally US$69,275-US$103,785 (Grade 7). For applicants outside the United States, compensation will be paid in local currency and determined according to the relevant local labour market rather than the US salary range.
- Closing Date: 2026-09-30
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary expert and point of contact for the Global Climate team on impact metrics and tracking systems.
- Work with the MEL Lead to develop and deploy climate mitigation and adaptation metrics, proxy metrics and methods.
- Develop adaptive management and Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) plans.
- Design and conduct quantitative analyses to establish baselines and measure impact.
- Apply approaches including carbon accounting, additionality principles, impact evaluations, surveys and field sampling.
- Support refinement of climate adaptation and mitigation metrics.
- Help develop MEL systems and protocols for 2040 and beyond goals and reporting.
- Deliver tools and training to staff and partners where appropriate.
- Manage spatial, tabular and other data and develop new datasets and tools where necessary.
- Conduct applied statistical and geospatial analyses on climate actions and outcomes where required.
- Contribute to research and analysis supporting metrics and MEL priorities.
- Potentially supervise staff, interns or volunteers on a project basis.
- Potentially manage grants, contracts or requests for proposals.
Requirements
- A Master’s degree in a science-related field and two years of experience , or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience collecting, manipulating, analysing and interpreting data.
- Experience synthesising, interpreting and communicating scientific information.
- Experience translating scientific concepts for general audiences.
- Experience preparing technical reports or scientific publications and creating engaging visualisations.
- Experience leading and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Experience working and communicating with a wide range of people.
- Experience working with conservation or climate programmes.
- Experience developing metrics, monitoring, evaluation, outcome reporting or related areas.
Salary
For applicants based in the United States, the starting annual base salary is generally US$69,275-US$103,785 (Grade 7). For applicants outside the United States, compensation will be paid in local currency and determined according to the relevant local labour market rather than the US salary range.
How to Apply
REF Code: JR103944 | Job Code: JR103944
About the Company
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global environmental organization headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, United States. As of 2021, it works via affiliates or branches in 79 countries and territories, as well as across every state in the U.S.
Website: https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/africa/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become a Climate Metrics Specialist in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a Master's degree in environmental science, climate science, statistics, or a related field, though exceptional candidates with a Bachelor's degree and significant experience may be considered. Proficiency in data analysis software like R, Python, or GIS tools is essential. Local universities such as the University of Zimbabwe and Africa University offer relevant postgraduate programs.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Climate Metrics Specialist?
You will spend most days collecting, cleaning, and analyzing climate and environmental datasets to track conservation outcomes and carbon sequestration metrics. Regular tasks include designing monitoring frameworks, preparing technical reports for donors, and collaborating with field teams to validate remote sensing data. You may also present findings to government agencies and international partners.
How does the work culture differ at international conservation NGOs compared to local Zimbabwean organizations?
International NGOs like TNC typically follow structured protocols with rigorous reporting deadlines, extensive documentation, and frequent virtual meetings across time zones. The culture emphasizes results-based management and compliance with international funding requirements. However, fieldwork still requires adaptability to local conditions such as limited internet connectivity and seasonal accessibility challenges in rural areas.
What career progression opportunities exist for Climate Metrics Specialists in Zimbabwe?
With experience, you can advance to senior technical roles such as Climate Adaptation Manager or Monitoring and Evaluation Lead for regional programs. Some specialists transition into consultancy work for multiple conservation organizations or move into policy advisory positions with government ministries. Pursuing a PhD or specialized certifications in carbon accounting can accelerate advancement into global technical specialist roles.
What benefits should I expect from an international conservation employer in Zimbabwe?
Reputable international NGOs typically offer medical aid coverage, pension contributions, and annual leave exceeding the statutory minimum of 21 days. Many also provide hardship allowances for remote postings, professional development funding, and emergency evacuation insurance. Always verify these details in your employment contract, as benefit packages vary significantly between organizations and funding streams.
How should I apply for a Climate Metrics Specialist position, and what do Zimbabwean employers prioritize?
Submit applications through official job portals or the organization's careers website, ensuring your CV highlights quantitative skills and specific conservation project outcomes you have measured. Employers prioritize candidates with demonstrated experience in carbon accounting methodologies, remote sensing applications, and working with rural communities. Include referees who can speak to your technical competence and reliability in challenging field conditions.
