Bilingual Biodiversity Specialist (English and Dutch)

Position: Bilingual Biodiversity Specialist, (English and Dutch)Project: Biodiversity Governance Innovation Programme (BioGov)Location: Paramaribo, SurinameContract Type: Consultancy Contract (Deliverables-Based)Duration: 12 Months (with possibility of extension)Estimated Level of Effort (LOE): Up to 100 days total, with flexible monthly distribution (average 8-10 days/month) Reports to: Project Field Manager, BioGov ProjectLanguages: English and Dutch (oral and written proficiency required)Compensation: Fees payable upon satisfactory completion of deliverablesApplication Deadline: September 4, 2025Application InstructionsA cover letter is mandatory to be considered.

Cover letters should effectively align your skills and experiences with the specific job responsibilities outlined in the position’s description, demonstrating your aptitude and enthusiasm for the role, your daily fee and current availabilityClick the Apply link to upload your cover letter and CV in EnglishOnly successful candidates will be contacted. No phone calls pleaseAlinea is an international development consultancy providing technical and management expertise that helps people improve their lives. Alinea works with governments, investors, companies, and communities to create lasting change. In over 39 years, Alinea has successfully delivered more than 1,000 projects and assignments worldwide.

At Alinea International we value diversity, equity, inclusivity, accessibility and belonging in everything we do. We are an equal opportunity employer opposed to all forms of discrimination. We actively seek and encourage applications from people of diverse backgrounds recognizing that an inclusive workforce enriches our organization and achieves smarter, more innovative results. Alinea is committed to the protection of children and vulnerable adults. Due to the nature of our work, all candidates will be subject to due diligence checks and extensive background checks where appropriate.

BackgroundThe Biodiversity Governance Innovation Programme (BioGov) is a five-year initiative (2025-2029) funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented by Alinea International. The project supports the Government of Suriname to enhance inclusive, coordinated, and gender-responsive biodiversity governance with a focus on marine and coastal ecosystems. BioGov works closely with national ministries, Indigenous and Tribal Peoples (ITPs), and civil society to help operationalize Suriname’s 2024-2035 National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP). Field-level activities are concentrated in Suriname’s Young Coastal Plain, prioritizing biodiversity protection and improved livelihoods for women and ITPs through nature-positive strategies.

BioGov also supports biodiversity policy reform, participatory monitoring, and alignment with international biodiversity finance and agreements. Scope of Work and DeliverablesThe Consultant will provide expert support to implement technical, coordination, and community engagement aspects of the BioGov project’s biodiversity governance workstream. Key deliverables are structured to align with the project’s Results-Based Management (RBM) framework and Work Plan.

Key ResponsibilitiesProvide technical guidance to support implementation of biodiversity-related activities under the BioGov projectContribute to biodiversity data planning, monitoring design, and integration of Traditional, Local and Indigenous Knowledge (TLIK)Support national policy and legal review processes related to biodiversity governanceFacilitate inclusive biodiversity planning with ITPs, local communities, and government partnersCollaborate closely with Gender SpecialistCoordinate inputs to project-supported biodiversity committees and management plansDeliver capacity-building and technical training for government and community stakeholders. Deliverables OverviewA detailed list of deliverables and timelines will be included as an annex to the consultant’s contract. Key areas of focus are expected to include:

Technical support for biodiversity policy reform and coordinationDevelopment of biodiversity monitoring and data management toolsContributions to inclusive biodiversity governance in coastal ecosystems (MUMAs)Capacity-building and outreach with communities and governmentTechnical input into biodiversity financeQuality assurance of project data, including results monitoring and reporting. Payment SchedulePayments will be issued upon submission and approval of deliverables according to detailed list of deliverables and timelines. Other Provisions Workstation: Based in Paramaribo at the Ministry of Oil, Gas and Environment, with travel to project sites if needed. Safeguarding and Ethics: Consultant must sign and adhere to Alinea’s Safeguarding and Anti-Corruption Policies.

Intellectual Property: All data and materials produced remain the property of Alinea and GAC. Flexibility Clause: Deliverables and LOE may be adjusted in agreement with the Project Field Manager based on evolving project needs. Required Qualifications: Relevant higher academic qualification such as ecology, conservation biology, zoology, environmental science etc. At least four years of experience working with government, non-profits organisations and communities on biodiversity and conservation related projects in Suriname or the Region. Knowledge of local and regional biodiversity conservation strategies and policies.

Proven experience in implementing biodiversity monitoring programs and conservation strategies with local communities including Indigenous and Tribal Peoples. Experience in gender-sensitive and inclusive approaches and collective rights in community field work. Ability to implement or support biodiversity monitoring programs and data analysis. Proficiency in spoken and written English and Dutch. Research and report writing skills. Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Preferred QualificationsUnderstanding and experience working with Global Affairs Canada funded programs.

Experience of international biodiversity agreementsExperience of finance mechanisms and developing funding proposalsExperience related to environmental challenges related to the oil and gas sector. Skills in result-based planning, tracking and reporting.