National Water Resource Management Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Astana is part of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to promote peace, security, and stability in Europe and beyond. The OSCE operates in 57 participating states and has a mission to foster cooperation among its members in various fields, including economic and environmental affairs. The Programme Office in Astana focuses on addressing regional challenges, including water resource management, and aims to support Kazakhstan in implementing effective policies and practices in this area. The office is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply for positions within the organization.

Job Overview:
The National Water Resource Management Expert will play a crucial role in addressing the pressing water management issues faced by Kazakhstan. The expert will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive analysis of water consumption across different economic sectors, assessing losses, and preparing analytical materials aimed at improving water use efficiency. This position is vital for the preparation of the Master plan and Basin plans, which are essential for sustainable water resource management in the country. The expert will work under the supervision of the Senior Economic and Environmental Officer and will be expected to engage with various stakeholders, including water users, to gather insights and assess on-the-ground conditions. The role requires a deep understanding of water resource issues in Kazakhstan and the ability to develop evidence-based recommendations for policy improvements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will undertake a variety of tasks, including: reviewing and revising the water use reporting system to identify gaps and propose improvements; analyzing water consumption in the industrial sector and developing structured datasets; conducting water demand assessments to evaluate unmet demand and projected dynamics; developing water balance analyses and applying scenario modeling for decision-making; assessing water quality and evaluating the impacts of wastewater discharges; undertaking basin visits to engage with stakeholders; identifying key problems and conducting risk assessments; developing water conservation incentive mechanisms; and preparing recommendations with analytical justification for proposed water use limits and regulatory approaches. The expert will be expected to deliver high-quality analytical materials and contribute to the overall improvement of water management practices in Kazakhstan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess higher education in hydrology, hydraulic engineering, land reclamation, water resources management, or related fields. A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in water use and/or water resources management is required, preferably within consulting firms or government agencies. The ideal candidate will have experience with water consumption data, water balances, and calculation models, as well as a strong understanding of current water resource issues in Kazakhstan and relevant regulatory frameworks. Proficiency in working with analytical tables, databases, and reporting is essential, along with strong analytical writing skills. Candidates should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as hydrology, hydraulic engineering, water resources management, or a related discipline. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of water resource management and for effectively conducting the required analyses and assessments.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in water use and/or water resources management. This experience should include work with water consumption data, water balances, and the development of calculation models. Familiarity with the regulatory framework for water use in Kazakhstan and international standards is also important.

Languages:
Knowledge of Kazakh or Russian is mandatory for this position, as these languages are essential for effective communication with local stakeholders. Proficiency in English is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and enhance the candidate's ability to engage in broader discussions regarding water management practices.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is a Special Service Agreement (SSA) for a duration of 6 months. The position is classified as a consultant role, with no specific grade assigned. The successful candidate will be based at the OSCE Programme Office in Astana, Kazakhstan. Remuneration will be determined based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, and will be discussed during the interview process. Payment will be made in local currency (tenge) to the consultant's bank account. The OSCE is committed to maintaining high ethical standards and does not request payment at any stage of the application process. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise or modify the job description as necessary.