Advisor Climate Resilient Agriculture (60-80%)
Helvetas is an organization specialized in development cooperation and humanitarian response, anchored in Switzerland, and operating in over 35 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Our vision is a just world in which all people determine the course of their lives in dignity and security, using environmental resources in a sustainable manner.
For our Water, Food and Climate team, based across Zurich and Bern, we are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated
Advisor Climate Resilient Agriculture
to join us as of January 1, 2027, or upon agreement, on a two-year fixed-term contract, with the possibility of extension. The position can be based in either Zurich or Bern and will contribute to strengthening Helvetas’ thematic positioning and advisory portfolio.
Water, Food and Climate (WFC) is one of Helvetas' three thematic working areas. The team consists of around 12 highly motivated and qualified experts focusing on WASH and Water Governance, Food Systems and Nutrition and Climate and Disaster Resilience.
YOUR MAIN TASKS
- Provide technical and strategic advice and manage advisory assignments for Helvetas projects, country programs and external clients, including planning new projects or phases, as well as conducting reviews and evaluations.
- Strengthen capacities and provide advisory support for the integration of climate and disaster risks in our programs and projects and monitor its progress.
- Lead or provide substantial inputs to acquisition processes, including the design of projects financed through bilateral donors, multilateral climate funds, philanthropic foundations and private-sector partnerships.
- Maintain and develop relationships with clients and partners, communicating clearly and consistently to support collaboration and acquisition.
- Contribute to the further development of Helvetas' approaches, knowledge products and positioning and advocacy for climate resilient agriculture, across our Food Systems and Nutrition and Climate and Disaster Resilience working fields.
- Strengthen our engagement with relevant Swiss and international networks. Develop relationships with Swiss private-sector companies and professional associations and explore opportunities to involve their expertise and resources in our initiatives.
YOUR QUALIFICATIONS
- Master's degree in agronomy, environmental sciences, international development or another field relevant to the position, or a BSc degree with experience and additional relevant education.
- At least 5 years of relevant experience in international development cooperation, including at least 3 years of field-based experience in the Global South/East, with exposure to multiple country contexts and short-term advisory or consultancy assignments. Experience in fragile contexts is highly valued.
- Proven expertise in climate-resilient agriculture, climate change mitigation, sustainable food systems and agri-food value chains.
- Strong knowledge of climate science, climate policy, climate impacts on agriculture and ecosystems, adaptation and mitigation approaches, climate finance and the monitoring of resilience and emission outcomes.
- Experience in climate risk and vulnerability assessment and in designing and implementing farmer-focused adaptation solutions, including weather and climate information services, extension services, and financial mechanisms.
- Experience with anticipatory action, ecosystem-based adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable natural resource management is an asset.
- Strong project management and advisory skills, with proven experience in acquisition, particularly of advisory service mandates, proposal development and client relations.
- Good networks within the Swiss academic, private sector and/or professional associations, with the ability to develop partnerships.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills in multicultural environments and policy dialogue as well as effective use of digital collaboration and AI-enabled tools.
- Excellent spoken and written English and French. Spanish and other additional languages are an advantage.
- Readiness to travel 3-4 times a year, including to fragile contexts.
OUR OFFER
At Helvetas, you will be part of a purpose-driven organization where your work creates meaningful global impact. We foster a caring and collaborative culture built on trust, flexibility, and accountability. You will grow in a professional environment that values integrity, empathy, and continuous learning. → we care. We commit.
We offer you an interesting challenge in a motivated team with attractive working conditions. You can expect a modern workplace in a multicultural setting in the centre of Bern/Zurich.
READY TO APPLY?
Please submit your complete application (motivation letter, CV, and certifications) by October 25th, 2026 via our online portal.
For any questions related to this position please contact Bernita Doornbos, Head Water Food Climate, +41 44 368 65 28 (between 15-25 October), or visit our website helvetas.org.
Kindly be aware that the contract will be based on Swiss terms. Due to Swiss work permit restrictions, only applications from Swiss nationals, EU citizens as well as current work-permit holders for Switzerland can be considered.
