National Hydrological Modelling Expert (SSA Roster Call)

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Bishkek (POiB) 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, stability, and democracy in its member states. The OSCE has been operational since 1975 and has a presence in various countries across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The POiB focuses on addressing security challenges in Kyrgyzstan, particularly in the areas of environmental protection, human rights, and conflict prevention. The office collaborates closely with local authorities, civil society, and international partners to implement projects that enhance the country's resilience to environmental risks, such as glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs).

Job Overview:
The National Hydrological Modelling Expert will play a crucial role in the project 'Assessment of Glacial Lake Outburst Flood Risks in Priority Mountain Areas of Kyrgyzstan,' which aims to enhance the monitoring and forecasting capabilities of the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MoES) regarding GLOFs. The expert will be responsible for designing, calibrating, and operationalizing hydrodynamic models that simulate GLOF breach scenarios for selected priority lakes. This position requires a strong background in hydrodynamic modeling, particularly using tools like HEC-RAS 2D, and the ability to integrate climate scenarios into hydrological frameworks. The expert will also be tasked with building national capacity to interpret and update hazard maps, ensuring that local stakeholders can effectively utilize the developed models and data.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The expert will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Conducting an inception meeting with the OSCE Programme Office, the Hydrometeorological and Forecasting Department (HMFD) of MoES, and the Climate Scientist to align on project objectives and methodologies.
• Reviewing the existing MoES monitoring system interface and identifying integration options for the new modeling tools.
• Preparing a comprehensive modeling work plan that outlines the steps for developing hydrodynamic models.
• Compiling digital elevation models and historical flood records to inform the modeling process.
• Developing a hydrological scenario simulation tool that incorporates downscaled climate inputs.
• Constructing HEC-RAS 2D hydrodynamic models for 5-10 priority lakes, simulating various breach scenarios, and generating flood extent and hazard maps.
• Collaborating with GIS specialists to produce detailed inundation hazard mapping reports.
• Providing training and capacity-building sessions for MoES staff on hydrodynamic modeling and hazard map interpretation.
• Updating models with new bathymetric measurements and field observations, and revising inundation maps accordingly. 1
• Preparing final technical reports and delivering all model files to MoES for future use.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or PhD) in hydrology, hydraulic engineering, water resources engineering, civil engineering, or a closely related discipline. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in hydrodynamic or 2D flood modeling is required, with demonstrated proficiency in tools such as HEC-RAS 2D, FLO-2D, RAMMS, or r.avaflow. Proven experience in modeling debris flows, dam-break, or GLOF events in mountainous regions is essential. Candidates should also have experience integrating climate and hydrological scenarios into hydrodynamic frameworks and possess a working knowledge of GIS platforms. Training and capacity-building experience with national institutions is highly valued, as is familiarity with OSCE procedures.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a Master’s or PhD, in fields related to hydrology, hydraulic engineering, water resources engineering, civil engineering, or similar disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complex interactions between hydrological processes and modeling techniques necessary for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in hydrodynamic modeling, particularly in the context of flood scenarios. Experience should include proficiency in using modeling software such as HEC-RAS 2D and familiarity with the specific challenges posed by mountainous regions, including the modeling of glacial lake outburst floods and debris flows. Previous work in Central Asia or similar environments is advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in Russian is mandatory, along with a good working knowledge of English. Knowledge of Kyrgyz is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of training sessions. Professional fluency in both Russian and Kyrgyz, both oral and written, is highly desirable.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered under a Special Service Agreement (SSA) contract type, which is typically project-based and may not provide the same benefits as a full-time position. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from various backgrounds to apply. The remuneration package will be based on the consultant's qualifications and experience, aligned with OSCE established rates. The OSCE retains the right to re-advertise or modify the job description as necessary. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.