Are you passionate about making a real difference in the face of climate change? The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is searching for a Senior Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Specialist, and this could be your chance to shine! But here's where it gets exciting: this role isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about leading the charge in ensuring that projects focused on climate resilience and sustainability in the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region truly deliver. The deadline for applications is December 5, 2025, at 11:59 PM Nepal Standard Time. The position is based in Kathmandu, Nepal.
This isn't just any job; you'll be at the heart of ICIMOD's mission, primarily supporting two major projects: the Green, Resilient, and Adaptive Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT) Economy in Bangladesh (GRACE) and Sustainable Actions for Ecosystem Restoration in Pakistan (SAFER Pakistan). These projects are crucial, and the Senior MEL Specialist will be instrumental in making sure they succeed.
Let's dive deeper. The GRACE project in Bangladesh, in partnership with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), focuses on strengthening climate resilience in the Chattogram Hill Tracts. This involves restoring vital water sources, improving infrastructure, and promoting sustainable agriculture across the districts of Rangamati, Khagrachari, and Bandarban. A key aspect is the direct channeling of climate finance to local governments through performance-based grants. And this is the part most people miss: this approach ensures transparency and accountability, aligning with Bangladesh's National Adaptation Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Meanwhile, the SAFER Pakistan project, in partnership with UNICEF Pakistan and UN Women Pakistan, tackles climate-related risks in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh. This includes addressing cryosphere hazards, water scarcity, and pollution. Through risk preparedness and ecosystem-based adaptation, SAFER aims to protect livelihoods and restore ecological balance. Both projects are now in critical implementation stages, demanding robust monitoring, consistent evaluation, and adaptive learning.
So, what will you actually do? As the Senior MEL Specialist, you'll be the strategic guide, providing technical support and quality assurance across both projects and institutional initiatives. This includes designing and managing MEL systems, ensuring high-quality data collection and analysis, and fostering continuous improvement.
Your key responsibilities will encompass:
- Leading the development and implementation of MEL frameworks for GRACE and SAFER.
- Ensuring alignment with ICIMOD’s institutional results framework and Adaptation Fund requirements.
- Providing technical oversight for data collection, performance measurement, and outcome evaluation.
- Supporting project teams in designing logical frameworks, indicators, and data management tools.
- Facilitating learning processes, documenting best practices, and supporting adaptive management.
- Strengthening staff capacity on MEL approaches through training and mentoring.
- Collaborating with partners to ensure consistency in MEL practices.
- Contributing to institutional reporting and knowledge dissemination.
The role is situated within ICIMOD’s Strategic Results, Partnerships, and Business Development (SRPBD) Unit. This placement ensures that project-level MEL systems align with organizational quality standards, promoting consistency in reporting and accountability.
Now, let's talk qualifications. You'll need an advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in a relevant field, at least 10 years of professional experience in MEL, and proven expertise in designing and managing MEL systems. Strong analytical, reporting, and communication skills are essential, as is the ability to lead teams and work with diverse stakeholders. Experience with climate resilience and sustainable development frameworks is a plus.
The application process is straightforward. Apply online through the ICIMOD Vacancy Application Portal by the deadline. Your application should include a detailed CV and cover letter.
Do you think that the performance-based grants system in the GRACE project is the most effective way to ensure climate finance reaches local communities? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
