International Wetland Ecology and Hydrology 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 in 197

• The OSCE is the world's largest security-oriented intergovernmental organization, with 57 participating states. The mission of the OSCE is to ensure peace, stability, and democracy in the region through various initiatives, including environmental protection and sustainable development. The Programme Office in Astana focuses on promoting security and cooperation in Central Asia, with a particular emphasis on environmental issues, human rights, and good governance. The office works closely with local governments, civil society, and international organizations to implement projects that align with the OSCE's goals and objectives.

Job Overview:
The position of International Wetland Ecology and Hydrology Expert is critical for leading a comprehensive assessment of wetland and peatland ecosystems in Kazakhstan. The expert will focus on evaluating the natural water retention capacity of these ecosystems and the range of ecosystem services they provide. This role is essential for generating actionable recommendations that will support inter-ministerial policy coordination and investments in nature-based solutions aimed at enhancing climate resilience. The expert will work under the supervision of the Senior Economic and Environmental Officer and will collaborate with national experts and stakeholders to ensure that the assessment aligns with national environmental objectives. The assignment is expected to last for 20 working days, during which the expert will conduct field assessments, analyze data, and prepare a comprehensive Wetland and Peatland Recovery Action Plan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: identifying and mapping wetland and peatland sites for assessment based on scientific criteria; conducting field-based hydrological assessments; evaluating the natural water retention capacity of wetlands; assessing ecosystem services such as water regulation, biodiversity support, and carbon storage; analyzing anthropogenic pressures affecting these ecosystems; reviewing management practices; validating laboratory findings; developing recommendations for monitoring methodologies; assessing carbon sequestration potential; preparing a comprehensive recovery action plan; and formulating evidence-based recommendations for investments in nature-based solutions. The expert will also be required to prepare technical reports and a final comprehensive report integrating all findings and recommendations for relevant authorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in wetland ecology, hydrology, environmental science, or a closely related field. A minimum of 10 years of international professional experience in wetland and/or peatland assessment, ecosystem services evaluation, or related hydrological research is required. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in conducting hydrological field surveys and quantitative ecosystem services assessments. Familiarity with the Ramsar Convention framework and international nature-based solutions policy instruments is essential. Practical experience in remote sensing and GIS applications for wetland mapping and monitoring is also required. Candidates should have a track record of producing policy-relevant technical reports and experience working in inter-ministerial or multi-stakeholder advisory processes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree, specifically a Master's or PhD, in fields such as wetland ecology, hydrology, environmental science, or closely related disciplines. This level of education is necessary to ensure that the candidate has the requisite knowledge and skills to conduct complex assessments and analyses related to wetland and peatland ecosystems.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of international professional experience in relevant fields, particularly in wetland and peatland assessment and ecosystem services evaluation. Candidates with experience working in Central Asia or similar semi-arid and continental climate regions will have a strong advantage. This extensive experience is crucial for understanding the unique challenges and opportunities present in the region's ecosystems.

Languages:
Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Russian is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and experts. Proficiency in additional languages may also be beneficial, depending on the specific context of the work.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is classified as a Special Service Agreement (SSA) for a consultant role, with no specific grade assigned. The job type is consultant, and there is one post available. The position is based in Astana, Kazakhstan, and the target start date is August 15, 202

• The remuneration package will be determined based on the selected consultant's qualifications and experience, as well as the tasks and deliverables associated with the position. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. It is important to note that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.