Job ID: 287975

Thematic Expert

Ajsa India

Location: Nuapada District, Odisha

Apply by: 20 Mar 2026

Relevant Sectors

Agriculture, Livelihoods, Microfinance, Rural, Urban

Capacity Building, Training, Advocacy

Environment, Climate, Energy, Water, Sanitation

Position: Thematic Expert
Number of openings: 1
Location: Nuapada District, Odisha
Project: ADAPT4R – Climate Resilience and Livelihood Strengthening Initiative
Organization: AJSA India
Salary – 6.24 Lakhs P.A+ Travel and Other Benefits as per the organisation norms

Introduction
At AJSA India, we have been facilitating community-led development initiatives since 1989, working with rural and marginalized communities to address the root causes of poverty and vulnerability. As a non-government, not-for-profit organization, AJSA promotes sustainable development through a holistic and community-driven approach that strengthens local institutions, improves livelihoods, and enhances resilience to social, economic, and environmental challenges. Our work focuses on empowering communities through climate-resilient agriculture, sustainable livelihoods, natural resource management, and strengthened local governance systems. By working closely with Panchayati Raj Institutions, community-based organizations, and government departments, AJSA supports inclusive development pathways that ensure long-term and locally owned solutions.

Project Overview
The ADAPT4R project aims to strengthen the resilience of vulnerable households in Nuapada district of Odisha by promoting climate-resilient livelihoods and sustainable natural resource management. The project adopts an integrated approach linking last-mile climate services, climate-proofed water and land resources, agroforestry systems, and diversified resilient livelihoods.

Position Brief
If you are passionate about advancing climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable natural resource management, and have deep experience in guiding community-based development initiatives, we are looking for you.
The Thematic Expert will provide strategic and technical leadership to the ADAPT4R project on issues related to climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction (DRR), climate-smart agriculture, and natural resource management. The role involves supporting the project team with technical guidance, strengthening climate-resilient livelihood strategies, and ensuring that project interventions are aligned with best practices and emerging knowledge in climate adaptation and resilience building.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Leadership and Guidance
? Provide technical expertise on climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction (DRR), and climate-resilient natural resource management.

? Guide the design and implementation of interventions related to climate-smart agriculture, agroforestry, water and land management, and resilient livelihood systems.

? Support the integration of livestock-based livelihoods and sustainable farming practices within the project framework.

Program Design and Implementation Support
? Work closely with the District Coordinator and Block teams to strengthen the technical quality of project activities.

? Contribute to the development of climate-resilient models and demonstration sites for agriculture, water conservation, and land restoration.

? Ensure that project interventions reflect local ecological conditions and community needs.

Capacity Building and Knowledge Support
? Facilitate training programs and technical workshops for project staff, community leaders, and farmer groups.

? Support the development of training materials, guidelines, and knowledge resources related to climate resilience and sustainable agriculture.

Monitoring, Learning, and Documentation
? Contribute to monitoring systems to assess the effectiveness of climate resilience and natural resource management interventions.

? Document best practices, lessons learned, and case studies from project implementation.

? Support learning processes and adaptive management within the project.

Stakeholder and Institutional Engagement
? Engage with relevant government departments, research institutions, and technical partners to strengthen project outcomes.

? Provide technical inputs during project reviews, consultations, and stakeholder meetings.

Qualifications

Postgraduate degree in Agriculture/ Environmental Sciences/Natural Resource Management/ Climate Change Studies/ Rural Development, or related disciplines.

Key Skills & Attributes
• Minimum 10-15 years of experience in climate change adaptation, DRR, or sustainable agriculture programs.
• 20+ years of overall professional experience in natural resource management, climate-smart agriculture, livestock development, DRR, and community mobilization.

How to Apply
Interested candidates are requested to send their CV along with a cover letter explaining their suitability for the position to:
Email: jobs@ajsaindia.org
Subject line: Application for Thematic – ADAPT4R Project
Last date to apply: 20 March 2026

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an online interview.

AJSA India encourages applications from qualified women candidates and individuals from diverse social backgrounds.

Job Email ID:

jobs(at)ajsaindia.org