Disaster Risk Reduction Specialist

Disaster Risk Reduction Specialist

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

February 10, 2026March 10, 2026Indonesia
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, which was established in 194
  • UNESCO's mission is to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. The organization operates in over 190 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. UNESCO aims to build peace in the minds of men and women, and it focuses on education, natural sciences, social/human sciences, culture, and communication/information.

Job Overview:
The Disaster Risk Reduction Specialist will be responsible for coordinating and implementing disaster risk reduction initiatives, particularly in relation to tsunami preparedness and resilience-building in the Indian Ocean region. The incumbent will work under the authority of the Director of the UNESCO Regional Office in Jakarta and will collaborate closely with various stakeholders, including the Intergovernmental Coordination Group for Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (ICG/IOTWMS) and the UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Resilience Section. The role involves planning and executing projects that enhance national capacities for disaster risk reduction, preparing work plans and budgets, and ensuring the effective implementation of activities aligned with UNESCO's Medium Term Strategy. The specialist will also monitor regional trends in disaster risks, conduct research, and provide regular reports on activities, contributing to outreach and communication efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist in the planning and implementation of disaster risk reduction activities, including tsunami early warning systems and resilience initiatives.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to develop programs that strengthen national capacities, including the Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme.
  • Prepare work plans, budgets, and output indicators for projects.
  • Provide logistical and administrative support for project activities, meetings, and events.
  • Facilitate coordination with national institutes and relevant networks.
  • Monitor and report on regional disaster risks, particularly tsunami hazards.
  • Conduct research and prepare project proposals for funding.
  • Compile and analyze data to identify collaboration opportunities.
  • Provide regular inputs and reports on activities and represent UNESCO at relevant events. 1
  • Support advisory missions of UNESCO experts and undertake additional tasks as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Environmental Science, Oceanography, Geosciences, or a related field. A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in disaster risk reduction, environmental management, or related natural sciences is required. Proven experience in project coordination and implementation at various levels is essential, along with expertise in disaster risk reduction and tsunami preparedness. Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills are necessary, as well as excellent coordination and interpersonal abilities. Candidates should demonstrate the capacity to build effective working relationships with various stakeholders and possess solid IT skills, including knowledge of office software.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Environmental Science, Oceanography, or Geosciences is required for this position. The educational background should ideally include a combination of professional experience and academic qualifications that align with the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in disaster risk reduction, environmental management, or related natural sciences. Candidates should have experience in project coordination and implementation at national, regional, and international levels, with a focus on disaster risk reduction and tsunami preparedness. Experience in the UN system or international development cooperation is desirable, particularly in developing countries or field settings, especially within the Indian Ocean region.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge of English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, good or fair knowledge of French is desirable, and knowledge of other official languages of UNESCO (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, and/or Spanish) is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 2 years, renewable based on performance and organizational needs. The role is open to both internal and external candidates, but only nationals of Indonesia may apply. The approximate annual starting salary for this position is IDR 721,862,000, and benefits may include 30 days of annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. Candidates must complete an online application by the deadline and may undergo a selection process that includes interviews and reference checks. UNESCO is committed to diversity and encourages applications from under-represented groups.
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