Environmental and Health Risk Communication Specialist

The UN Development Programme (UNDP) in Solomon Islands, on the ground since 1999, has earned a reputation as a trustworthy development partner in the collective effort of supporting Solomon Islands in achieving the objectives of the National Development Strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals. UNDP works with people and their governments to address the country's various development challenges. We support Solomon Islands in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sustaining its growth trajectory by modernising institutions, reducing inequalities, digitally transforming communities, combating climate change and sustainably managing natural resources. As part of the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji, which covers 10 countries in the Pacific region and guided by the Sub-regional Programme Document for the Pacific Island Countries and Territories 2018-2022, UNDP in Solomon Islands has a growing portfolio of country focused interventions in the areas of: Effective Governance Inclusive Growth Resilience and Sustainable Development UNDP also partners with the Solomon Islands Government in undertaking policy level initiatives, including the impact of COVID-19 on the economy, digital transformation, and others

The Environmental and Health Risk Communication Specialist will support national capacities in managing information, reducing uncertainty and fostering trust between authorities, experts and the public regard Environmental Hazards and Health Risks. This Role operates at the intersection of science, policy and public perception to encourage protective behaviors, manage outbreaks and facilitate informed decision-making.

Under the direct supervision of Programme Specialist, the Environmental and Health Risk Communication Specialist will undertake the following tasks: Technical Translation & Communication: Facilitate the translation of complex scientific data into clear, actionable "layman's terms" for diverse audiences. Risk Assessment & Management: Facilitate environmental health risk assessment, including hazard identification, exposure assessment, and communication. Crisis & Emergency Response Communication: Support implementation of Crisis and Emergency Risk Communication (CERC) principles, such as being first, right, and credible during rapid-onset incidents like spills or disease outbreaks. Media Relations & Content Strategy: Drafting press releases, developing media strategies, and managing proactive community outreach through social media, websites, and public forums. Stakeholder Engagement & Outreach: Support engagement with community members, public officials, non-profits, and industry stakeholders, often facilitating public forums and workshops.