World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10

Senior Program Associate – Climate Resilience Practice (Chennai)

Location: Chennai, India
Organization: WRI India
Salary: INR 1,400,000 – 1,800,000 CTC per annum
Duration: 1-year hire, extendable based on performance

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About WRI India

WRI India, an independent charity legally registered as the India Resources Trust, provides research-driven solutions to foster environmentally sound and socially equitable development. Affiliated with the World Resources Institute (WRI), we engage in impactful research and advocacy to address environmental and societal challenges. WRI India operates from offices in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, with over 250 researchers dedicated to transformative solutions.

About the Role

WRI India is seeking a Senior Program Associate to support the Climate Resilience Practice (CRP) team in Tamil Nadu. The role involves mainstreaming climate change adaptation and mitigation into development planning at various government levels. The successful candidate will be embedded within Tamil Nadu’s Department of Environment (DoE) and work closely with government stakeholders to implement climate resilience strategies.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Knowledge Development

• Design and implement training modules and capacity-building workshops at state, district, and city levels on climate resilience.
• Develop frameworks for integrating climate adaptation actions into district and city development plans and budgets.
• Support the creation of key climate adaptation strategies and investment plans for Tamil Nadu.
• Conduct research on climate finance, including mobilizing resources for adaptation initiatives.
• Assist in developing concept notes for climate change project funding.
• Pilot-test frameworks and tools for prioritizing climate actions in development budgets.
• Lead climate resilience efforts at the city level, incorporating urban planning and budget considerations.
• Support field visits to climate-smart villages and key priority districts to collect data and stakeholder feedback.
• Provide technical assistance to states, districts, and cities in developing nature-based solutions for climate action.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative data analysis to support policy recommendations.
• Contribute to knowledge products, working papers, and other research outputs.

Administrative & Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with government agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
• Plan and execute state-level training programs for key partners.
• Organize workshops, conferences, and dissemination activities.
• Support the Tamil Nadu Department of Environment in drafting government orders and notifications as required.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Economics, Environment, Climate Change, Development Studies, or related disciplines.
• 5-7 years of relevant full-time research experience in climate change and policy.
• In-depth knowledge of climate change policies such as SAPCC, NAPCC, NDC, and city climate action plans.
• Understanding of government budget planning processes and public finance management.
• Prior experience working at the sub-national level and liaising with state governments, especially in Tamil Nadu.
• Strong skills in qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
• Willingness to travel for field visits on short notice.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of tasks.
• Proficiency in English, Tamil, and Hindi (spoken and written).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in publishing reports and research papers on climate change policy.
• Strong understanding of climate finance, including public budgetary processes at different levels.
• Prior work experience with research organizations and government agencies.
• Experience in writing concept notes and proposals for Green Climate Fund, Adaptation Fund, etc.

Benefits at WRI India

• Health Insurance: Coverage up to INR 8 lakhs for employees and dependents.
• Term Insurance: Life coverage of INR 50 lakhs per employee.
• Employee Assistance Program: Mental well-being support.
• Health & Nutrition: Personalized diet recommendations.
• Flexible Work Schedule: Alternative work arrangements for eligible roles.
• Learning Culture: Workshops and training opportunities.
• Rest & Recharge: Paid time off to rejuvenate and upskill.
• Leave Policy: 36 personal leave days annually, along with public holidays, maternity, paternity, and adoption leaves.

Application Process

Documents to Submit:

• Cover Letter
• Resume

Apply Here: WRI India Job Portal

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

WRI India promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across all aspects of its work and workforce. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where diverse perspectives thrive. Learn more about our DEI commitment here.

For more WRI India job opportunities, check out:

• Senior Program Associate – Energy Innovation
• Senior Program Associate – Industrial Decarbonization
• Senior Program Associate – Urban Resilience

World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10/World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10/World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10/World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10/World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10/World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10/World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10/World Resources Institute (WRI) is hiring Program Associates x 10/