International Consultant for Land Subsidence Assessment Framework

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) was established to promote economic and social development in the Asia-Pacific region. It aims to foster regional cooperation and integration, addressing issues such as sustainable development, disaster risk reduction, and climate change. ESCAP works with member states and stakeholders to enhance their capacities and promote inclusive and sustainable development. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, engaging with various partners to implement initiatives that address pressing regional challenges.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for Land Subsidence Assessment Framework is critical in addressing the urgent issue of land subsidence in Asia-Pacific cities. This role involves designing a standardized, data-driven diagnostic assessment and monitoring framework that integrates geospatial technologies, remote sensing tools, and urban-environmental indicators. The consultant will be responsible for developing methodologies to assess the extent and drivers of land subsidence, identify high-risk zones, and simulate future risk scenarios. The overarching goal is to equip national and local governments with practical tools and guidance to effectively monitor and mitigate land subsidence risks, thereby enhancing urban resilience and sustainability. The consultant will also engage in capacity-building efforts to ensure stakeholders can apply the framework and translate findings into actionable policy and planning responses.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key activities, including:

• Designing a standardized assessment and monitoring framework that incorporates forecasting methodologies, geospatial analysis, and risk mapping.
• Developing a comprehensive user guide to support training for national consultants and facilitate the application of the framework in various contexts.
• Conducting online capacity-building workshops for stakeholders in pilot countries, ensuring they can effectively utilize the framework.
• Designing and delivering a DEAR (Drivers, Exposure, Assessment, Response) Assessment, Monitoring, and Forecasting Tool for the Cox’s Bazar Development Authority, which will help identify subsidence drivers and risk scenarios.
• Providing evidence-based policy recommendations and response options based on the assessment outcomes, integrating international best practices into local governance frameworks.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master’s or Doctorate) in urban planning, geography, engineering, sustainable development, environmental sciences, social sciences, or a related discipline. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in sustainable urban development, water resource management, climate adaptation, or environmental resilience is required. The consultant should have demonstrated expertise in applied research, technical assistance, and policy analysis related to urban and environmental systems. A proven track record of working with national and subnational governments on development projects in infrastructure planning, environmental assessment, and disaster risk reduction is essential. Additionally, experience in designing diagnostic frameworks and geospatial methodologies is crucial.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced degree, either a Master’s or Doctorate, in relevant fields such as urban planning, geography, engineering, sustainable development, environmental sciences, or social sciences. This educational background is essential to ensure the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to address complex urban and environmental challenges effectively.

Experience:
The consultant should have a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in areas related to sustainable urban development, water resource management, climate adaptation, or environmental resilience. This experience should include applied research, technical assistance, and policy analysis, particularly in urban and environmental systems. The candidate must also have a strong understanding of urban and regional development trends and challenges in the Asia-Pacific region, especially concerning land subsidence and climate change impacts.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication, report writing, and stakeholder engagement throughout the consultancy.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based and is expected to last from October 3, 2025, to August 31, 202

• The position is part of a larger initiative funded under the China-ESCAP Cooperation Programme, aimed at strengthening the capacity of governments and city stakeholders to address land subsidence. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.