National Consultant on the Dam Safety construction: Dam Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network of the United Nations. Established in 1965, UNDP aims to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. It operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address their development challenges. UNDP focuses on various areas including democratic governance, sustainable development, and resilience to climate change. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, contributing to its mission of promoting sustainable human development.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant on the Dam Safety construction: Dam Specialist will play a crucial role in the implementation of the Islamic Development Bank's project in Kazakhstan, specifically focusing on climate-resilient water resources development. This position involves providing technical expertise and support to enhance the operational and institutional capacities related to water management. The consultant will be expected to work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies and local communities, to ensure that the project aligns with international best practices. The assignment is home-based with a requirement for one business trip to Astana, Kazakhstan, for up to seven days. The consultant will be engaged for a period of up to 87 working days, tentatively scheduled from July to December 202

• The role requires a deep understanding of water management principles and the ability to integrate these into the project’s framework to achieve its objectives effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of duties including but not limited to: conducting assessments of existing dam safety measures, providing recommendations for improvements, and ensuring compliance with international safety standards. The consultant will also be tasked with developing and implementing training programs for local stakeholders to enhance their understanding of dam safety and water management practices. Additionally, the consultant will facilitate workshops and meetings to promote stakeholder engagement and collaboration. Regular reporting on progress and challenges faced during the assignment will be required, along with the preparation of technical documents and guidelines to support the project’s objectives. The consultant will also be expected to contribute to the development of a sustainable business strategy for KazSRIWE, ensuring that all interventions are aligned with the project’s goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in civil engineering, hydrology, or a related field, with specific expertise in dam safety and water resource management. A proven track record of working on similar projects, particularly in developing countries, is essential. The consultant should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Excellent communication skills are required to effectively engage with stakeholders and present findings. Familiarity with international best practices in dam safety and water management is highly desirable, along with experience in capacity building and training.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a Master’s degree in civil engineering, environmental science, hydrology, or a related discipline is required. Additional certifications or training in dam safety and water resource management will be considered an asset. Candidates with a PhD in a relevant field will be given preference, as will those with specialized training in integrated water resources management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in dam safety, water resource management, or a related field. Experience working with international organizations or on projects funded by multilateral development banks is highly desirable. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and work effectively in multicultural environments. Previous experience in Kazakhstan or Central Asia will be an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all documentation and communication will be conducted in this language. Knowledge of Russian or Kazakh is considered a strong asset, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the consultant's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an Individual Contract and is expected to be part-time, with a total of up to 87 working days. The consultant will work remotely but will need to travel to Astana for a business trip lasting up to 7 days. The contract duration is tentatively set from July to December 2026, and the consultant will be compensated according to UNDP's established rates for individual contractors. Interested candidates must submit their proposals through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline.