Consultant for Strengthening Early Warning Systems

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) was established in December 1999 and serves as the designated focal point within the United Nations system for coordinating efforts aimed at reducing disasters. The organization plays a crucial role in ensuring synergies among disaster reduction activities across the United Nations and regional organizations, addressing both developed and less developed countries. UNDRR is led by the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Disaster Risk Reduction (SRSG/ASG) and has a workforce of over 150 staff members based in its headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, as well as in various regional offices. The organization is responsible for guiding, monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the progress of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-203

• It actively supports the implementation of this framework at both regional and national levels, catalyzing action and raising global awareness to mitigate disaster risks. UNDRR collaborates with UN Member States and a diverse range of partners, including civil society, the private sector, parliamentarians, and the science and technology community. The organization emphasizes the importance of developing early warning systems that are people-centered, multi-hazard, trusted, and accessible to all, particularly for vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities. In the Solomon Islands, the government has made significant strides in strengthening early warning systems, although challenges remain in field implementation, especially regarding the integration of gender and disability considerations in disaster management plans.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be tasked with the development and implementation of a model flag-based early warning system (EWS) in the Solomon Islands, focusing on enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for persons with disabilities. This initiative is a collaborative effort involving the UNDRR, the Solomon Islands Meteorological Services (SIMS), the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), and the Disabled People’s Association of Solomon Islands (PWDSI). The consultant will work under the supervision of the Programme Management Officer at UNDRR Pacific Subregional and will coordinate closely with local stakeholders to ensure that the early warning systems are effective and actionable for all community members, particularly those with disabilities. The consultant's role will include project management, technical support, and capacity building to ensure that the early warning systems are not only functional but also tailored to meet the unique needs of vulnerable populations. The expected duration of the project is from September 10, 2025, to December 25, 2025, during which the consultant will be expected to deliver significant outcomes that contribute to the overall goal of disaster risk reduction in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: providing project management and administrative support for the flag-based early warning systems; coordinating with the Disabled People’s Association of Solomon Islands and the Meteorological Services to develop the model EWS; offering technical support and quality assurance to local service providers involved in the design of the EWS; facilitating capacity-building sessions focused on inclusive early warning systems and disaster management; and engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, including UN agencies and both international and national organizations, to promote effective early warning strategies. The consultant will also be responsible for monitoring and reporting on the progress of the project, ensuring that all activities align with the objectives set forth by UNDRR and its partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in business administration, social sciences, public administration, disaster risk management, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with at least two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Furthermore, a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in project management, early warning systems, disaster risk management, resilience, or public administration is required, with specific experience working with national and sub-national stakeholders in the Solomon Islands being essential. Experience in project management is considered desirable, as it will enhance the consultant's ability to effectively oversee the implementation of the early warning systems.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in fields such as business administration, social sciences, public administration, disaster risk management, or a related discipline. Candidates with a first-level university degree may still be considered if they have sufficient additional qualifying experience, specifically at least two years, which demonstrates their capability to fulfill the responsibilities of the role effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of professional experience in areas related to project management, early warning systems, disaster risk management, resilience, or public administration. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with relevant stakeholders in the Solomon Islands, which is crucial for the successful implementation of the early warning systems. Experience in managing projects, particularly those that involve collaboration with local communities and organizations, is highly desirable and will be beneficial for the consultant's role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is essential for coordinating with various stakeholders and ensuring that the early warning systems are accessible and actionable for all community members. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances the consultant's ability to engage with diverse populations in the Solomon Islands.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to run from September 10, 2025, to December 25, 2025, indicating a fixed-term contract duration. The consultant will be working in a full-time capacity, and it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This ensures that the recruitment process is transparent and accessible to all qualified candidates. Additionally, due to the high volume of applications received, only successful candidates will be contacted for further steps in the recruitment process.