About this role
Environmental Research and Engagement Facilitator
Project Description: Engineers, surveyors, data scientists, and GIS analysts, your skills are needed in Kosovo to support policy development and advocacy. A small number of environmental organizations in Kosovo are leading efforts to advance Kosovo’s green agenda, but currently struggle with a lack of expertise, fragmented data systems, outdated or missing environmental indicators, and insufficient funding to hire specialized experts. These limitations hinder the staff’s ability to conduct evidence-based policy advocacy, monitor environmental trends, and engage communities in environmental resilience efforts. As Environmental Research and Engagement Facilitator, you will collaboratively strengthen research capabilities, develop data tools, and support inclusive community engagement that’s aligned with EU environmental standards.
Required Skills: Competitive candidates will have one or more of the following criteria: Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Forestry or relevant field (e.g. Computer Engineering) OR 2 or more years of training and experience using data collection tools relevant to role, such as GIS/ArcView, statistical software and mapping applications OR Research and analysis skills relevant to role (e.g. impact evaluation results frameworks, assessment, biological monitoring)
Living Conditions: The Volunteer will be placed in an independent living setup consisting of an apartment or house within Kosovo’s capital city. The commute to the designated workplace is anticipated to be within a reasonable walking distance.
Activities: Conduct comprehensive policy research on energy, climate, and environmental issues. Support community engagement through mobilization, workshops, youth forums, and awareness sessions. Assist in capacity-strengthening initiatives for the staff, local stakeholders, and youth. Contribute to baseline assessments, ecosystem mapping, and vulnerability profiling. Create materials that promote nature-based solutions and resilience. Enhance the existing platform, ensuring data accuracy and compliance with environmental, social, and governance standards. You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as conducting vulnerability assessments and workshops.
Training: After a one-week orientation on topics such as health and safety, you will move to Pristina, an urban community where you will collaborate with an assigned environmental NGO. You will work with the partner and your community to assess the local needs and develop a work plan in line with their established goals. Peace Corps/Kosovo will equip you with Albanian or Serbian language resources and you may work with a local tutor who can help you build basic language skills to connect with the community.
Job Highlights: Address critical gaps in environmental research, policy advocacy, and community engagement. Develop Albanian or Slavic language skills through real-life conversations. Learn about the rich Balkan culture and history.