International Consultant - Marine Monitoring Systems for Strategic Development

Job Posting Organization:
The Kazakh Scientific and Research Institute of the Caspian Sea (KSRICS) was established by a Presidential Decree on January 25, 202

• It operates under the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources (MENR) of Kazakhstan. KSRICS is tasked with coordinating national actions and regional engagement to address the diverse challenges facing the Caspian Sea and its resources. The institute aims to be the leading scientific body in Kazakhstan dedicated to the study, monitoring, and sustainable management of the Caspian Sea. The organization is focused on responding to rapid environmental changes in the region, including declining sea levels, increased salinity, biodiversity loss, coastal degradation, and pollution pressures. KSRICS is expected to develop a Strategic Development Plan (SDP) for 2028-2038, which will include the design and operationalization of a Comprehensive Continuous Marine Monitoring System (CCMMS).

Job Overview:
The consultancy assignment aims to develop the architecture of the Comprehensive Continuous Marine Monitoring System (CCMMS) specifically for the Kazakhstani sector of the Caspian Sea. The system must be technically feasible, grounded in real field experience, and adapted to the unique conditions of the Caspian Sea, including its ice regime, level variability, pollution, and biodiversity. The consultant will work closely with KSRICS to ensure that the monitoring system is integrated with existing systems and national data platforms. The role involves conducting assessments of current environmental monitoring infrastructure, analyzing datasets, identifying monitoring gaps, and developing recommendations for an optimal monitoring network. The consultant will also design a comprehensive monitoring system that includes various types of monitoring stations and develop technical specifications for necessary equipment and sensors. The overall goal is to create a robust, sustainable monitoring system that can effectively address the environmental challenges in the Caspian Sea region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be responsible for a range of tasks, including: conducting a comprehensive assessment of existing environmental monitoring infrastructure in the Kazakhstani sector of the Caspian Sea; reviewing the technical condition and operational capabilities of monitoring stations; analyzing environmental and hydrological datasets for integration into a real-time monitoring system; identifying geographic coverage deficiencies and seasonal limitations in monitoring; developing recommendations for the architecture of a monitoring network; determining optimal locations for monitoring stations based on various ecological and operational factors; designing a comprehensive monitoring system that incorporates various types of monitoring stations; developing technical specifications for monitoring equipment; recommending suitable monitoring technologies; proposing cost-effective technical solutions; designing a real-time data transmission architecture; developing specifications for a centralized data management platform; creating an early warning framework for environmental anomalies; ensuring interoperability with international monitoring networks; defining maintenance and calibration procedures; and participating in consultations with stakeholders. The consultant will also undertake field missions to support technical assessments and present findings to project stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in oceanography, marine science, environmental remote sensing, or ocean engineering, with a minimum of a Master's degree (PhD preferred). They should have at least 8 years of experience working on ocean or environmental observing systems, with a proven track record in system design or institutional management. Experience across at least three types of observing platforms is required, along with knowledge of operational data management and real-time alert systems. Familiarity with ice or cold marine environments is essential, and candidates should demonstrate the ability to lead strategic planning processes for scientific or environmental institutions. High proficiency in technical writing in English is mandatory, and knowledge of Russian is an advantage. Candidates must also have no conflicts of interest with oil and gas companies operating in the Caspian Sea and should demonstrate gender awareness and sensitivity.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced degree in a relevant field such as oceanography, marine science, environmental remote sensing, or ocean engineering. A Master's degree is the minimum requirement, while a PhD is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and research capability in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in ocean or environmental observing systems. This experience should include a strong background in system design and institutional management, rather than solely research. The candidate should have practical experience with various observing platform types, including buoys, vessel-based sensors, and coastal monitoring stations, as well as satellite remote sensing.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, particularly in technical writing. Knowledge of Russian is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication and collaboration within the region and with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for a duration of 5 months, starting on July 20, 202

• The position is classified under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) or Consultant contract type, with no specific grade assigned. The remuneration package will be based on the consultant's qualifications, experience, and the tasks outlined for this position, in accordance with the established rates of the OSCE. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Candidates should be aware that OSCE officials are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status as international civil servants, maintaining integrity and impartiality.